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1960 Cadillac Series 6300 Coupe deVille – Dignity,Distinction, Grace, and Beauty

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical, Cadillac: Masterpiece from the Master Craftsmen, Classic American Marques with tags "As the Standard of the World Turns", "Gone With the Wind", 1960 Cadillac, 1960 Cadillac Series 6300 Coupe deVille, 1960 Cadillac Series 6300 Coupe deVille - The Dignity Distinction Grace and Beauty, Ann Rutherford-Dozier, Cadillac, Cadillac Coupe deVille, Cadillac DeVille, Cadillac: "Standard of the World", Classic Cadillac DeVille, Greg's World, NotoriousLuxury on December 29, 2017 by 99MilesPerHour

Welcome to the pomp and splendor of the traditional Cadillac motorcar. It is more than a mere automobile…it is a legend and a lifestyle. Cadillac earned the reputation as the superlative of superlatives through sophisticated engineering and exemplary craftsmanship. A traditional Cadillac moves with tremendous verve and élan. Luxury and innovation is the constant companion when one chose to drive the formidable “Standard of the World.”

The traditional Cadillac remains as one of the most revered automobiles to connoisseurs world-wide. One model in particular dominated this rare arena becoming “America’s favorite luxury car.” The iconic and unforgettable DeVille series is a jewel in the crown of General Motors. Coupes deVille and Sedans deVille consistently took turns leading sales production totals. Their unequalled pre-eminence made them the universal status symbol.

The 1960 Cadillac Series 6300 Coupe deVille is the quintessential example of American excess – flamboyant…yet tasteful. It echoes success. There’s new elegance and refinement. The epochal “Standard of the World” had once again left its indelible signature in the ultra-luxury car segment. Bill Mitchell, chief design engineer for General Motors gave the 1960 Cadillac an elegant poised dignity.

Overall styling refinement and restrained use of ornamentation diminished the bling from the 1959 Harley Earl design. These new models advanced the Cadillac tradition of excellence to an extraordinary degree. The 1960 Cadillac Series 6300 Coupe deVille showcases its dignity, refinement, and dramatic beauty…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

The traditional Cadillac is the most charismatic luxury automobile to motor out of Detroit, Michigan. It was the American dream. Life…liberty…and the pursuit of Cadillac – nothing on the road could compare. The “Standard of the World” is an innovator, it follows in no other auto manufacturer’s tire tracks. It never took styling cues from the competition, Cadillac designed its cars to be ultra-exclusive. The entire auto industry took note. The “other” luxury car was forced into submission by the “Standard of the World.”

Exquisite fit & finish, superb engineering, and an inexhaustible dedication to excellence allowed it to carve its own exclusive niche in the luxury car segment. The traditional Cadillac is the most impressive and the most glamorous of all American Grand Marques…it’s the iconic tail fins that made it most charismatic. In 1960, Cadillac had been “Standard of the World” for fifty-eight years. These cars were built when “Made in the U.S.A.” meant something special…

The Beauty

For 1960, Cadillac presented a refined new sophistication. The tail fins were trimmed and tapered into the bodywork. This made the entire vehicle appear longer, lower, and wider. Bill Mitchell removed the ‘excess’ from Harley Earl’s genre making Cadillac even more luxurious. The tail lamps are now integrated into the fins for Mitchell’s “tailored look.” Turn signal lamps and back-up lamps are neatly set into chrome oval nacelles coordinating the contemporary new restyle.

The front-end ensemble is augmented by its wide cross-hatch grille design with alternate bars beveled to reflect a contrasting jewel-like pattern. A less ornate bumper is more sophisticated. Turn signal monitors integrated into the top of the crown moldings atop of each fender flash small amber lights alerting the driver to left and right turns. The overall look enhanced Coupe deVille’s sweeping silhouette making it lower, more refined yet completely in character with the “Standard of the World.” It’s remarkable how just a few changes made the 1960 model look completely restyled when it was not. Restrained use of ornamentation gives the car an understated elegance.

1959 Cadillacs sported the tallest tail fins in the industry

Series 6200, 6300, and 6400 use the same bodyshell

Comfort and convenience

Coupe deVille’s cabin is an exercise in sheer splendor. The luxury continues to proliferate…Cadillac-Style. A newly designed instrument panel places pertinent information directly in the driver’s sight for quick assessment; the instrument cluster is recessed into the dash eliminating annoying reflection.

The DeVille series is endowed with special appointments to make each journey as rewarding as the destination. Wide folding center armrests front and rear augment the wide bench seating for sofa-like comfort. Coupe deVille’s deep-seated elegance pampers up to six passengers spaciously. Power windows, 2-way power seat, power steering and brakes all provide a constant source of pleasure.

Cadillac Air Conditioning was a popular option

One may repose within the epitome of luxury with the standard diamond patterned nylon Chadwick tailored cloth interior or optional Cambray cloth with Florentine leather bolsters. Elegant Trieste nylon blend deep loop-pile carpeting flows lavishly throughout covering floor, lower door kick panels, and cowl sidewalls. The front floor tunnel is lower and narrower as a result of a more compact design of the transmission housing.

This equates to even more foot room for front seat passengers. The accelerator pedal has a recess at the base which the ladies like; this accommodates high heels making the alternation between the brake pedal easier. The pedals have improved spacing for added convenience. Coupe deVille interiors are designed and handcrafted by Fleetwood to suit the most discriminating taste.

The dramatic elegance and majesty of Coupe deVille for 1960 could have been ordered to suit the buyer. These amenities include Cadillac Air Conditioning that not only heats, cools but also removes dust, pollen, and smoke. The convenience of power door locks allows front seat passengers to lock and unlock the doors at the touch of a button.

A power trunk lock not only releases the deck lid but also when the lid is lowered it is securely locked automatically. Cruise Control maintains a set speed reducing fatigue on long journeys. Exclusive Cadillac Guide-Matic headlamp control automatically dips the high beams upon the approach of on-coming vehicles; the high beams ‘blink-off’ a second time as a reminder to the on-coming vehicle to dip their high beams as well. The traditional Cadillac was a blank canvas to become as individual as one’s own fingerprints.

Model # 60-63J style # 6337J 1960 Cadillac Series 6300 Coupe deVille two-door hardtop was base priced at $5,252, has a base shipping weight of 4,705 pounds, and 21,585 were built. Coupe deVille for 1960 has the luxury length of 225”, rides a long 130” wheelbase, and is 79.9” wide. It is a very large front engine rear-wheel drive vehicle. Hagerty Insurance Agency of Traverse City, Michigan values the 1960 Coupe deVille as: $47,200 USD for Concours condition, $29,800 USD for excellent condition, $21,100 USD for good condition, and $13,300 USD for fair condition.

Engine and Chassis

1960 Cadillacs are powered as a true luxury leader should be. The Cadillac 6.4 litre 16-valve 390 CID V8 provides effortless, silky-smooth operation at all speeds. It’s built using a cast iron block and cylinder heads mounted at three points with Vulcanized rubber engine mounts. The engine is equipped with a Carter AFB 2814S 4-bbl downdraft carburetor with equalized manifolding, mechanical fuel pump, dry-pack air cleaner, intake silencer, automatic choke, and dual exhaust.

These cars may be driven using only two primary barrels of the four to aid fuel economy. The trick is not to press the accelerator too hard leaving traffic lights and stop signs…but you have to move quickly through to the third gear. Not saying jack-rabbit starts but you need to get from a standing start to third gear quickly. When the accelerator pedal is depressed quickly beyond 75% the secondary barrels open. (burp-n-slurp!)

Ahhh…a real Cadillac engine

Cadillac has built some really impressive V8 engines. The magnificent 390 CID V8 cranks 325 hp @ 4,800 rpm with 583 Nm of peak torque @ 3,100 rpm. It is capable of obtaining 14 mpg if properly maintained and driven with the primary barrels. Longitudinal acceleration is rated as: 0-60 mph in 10.6 seconds, 0-100 mpg in 29.2 seconds with a top speed in the 122-125 range. It can do the ¼ mile @ 83 mph in 17.7 seconds. This engine delivers more hp per pound of engine weight than any other luxury car in its class for 1960.

The engine is mated to the highly successful Cadillac Hydra-Matic transmission. It provides dual drive range operation. So, what’s dual range? The left-hand side DR (Drive Range) position allows four forward gear ratios automatically. The right-hand position DR is for city driving locking out fourth gear up to 75 mph providing instant acceleration without step-down. LO range is provided for deep sand or mud and steep grades.

Coupe deVille has a traditional build as body on frame construction. Cadillac’s rugged tubular X-frame yields lower body mounts equating to more interior room and improved overall appearance. The front suspension has upper and lower control arms with spherical joints and helical coil springs which is sturdier than contemporary build automobiles.

The rear suspension fine tunes the Cadillac Magic Carpet Ride further with 4-link drive and helical coil springs. The Hypoid type rear axle has an off-set differential housing to facilitate Cadillac’s straight-line-drive. Coupe deVille’s power brakes are drum type with self-adjusting shoes. The brakes calibrate themselves each time the car is driven in reverse and the brakes applied. The rear drums are finned to dissipate heat rapidly.

New for 1960 is an automatic vacuum release parking brake that doubles as a tandem auxiliary brake in an emergency. This system evolved into Cadillac’s “Triple Braking System” for the 1962 model year. A split hydraulic master cylinder has independent front and rear braking systems in case one set fails the other set will still maintain 100% braking ability.

This 1960 Cadillac Series 6300 Coupe deVille has a secret. It belonged at one time to a very special person. It was the personal car for Canadian-born Ann Rutherford Dozier (1917-2012). She had the role of Poly Benedict in the 1930s and 1940s in “The Andy Hardy” series. She also had the role of Scarlett O’Hara’s sister Carreen in “Gone with the Wind.” Her illustrious career spanned five decades. The car was sold by Daniel Schmitt Classic Cars.

Cadillac motorcars from this genre are unique luxury automobiles. They paved the way for contemporary auto manufacturers with innovation and engineering setting industry standards. The 1960 Edition of the “Standard of the World” is another jewel in the legend’s crown. It’s a fine automobile that not only delivered the epitome of luxury and opulence but high performance as well. Only sports cars from Coupe deVille’s day share prodigious power exceeding 300 hp making DeVille a unique expression of American luxury. It reinforced Cadillac’s omnipotence in the luxury marketplace.

The traditional Cadillac is second to none. Coupe deVille is a very eloquent example of the mission while retaining the poised dignity that is the hallmark of every traditional Cadillac. Today’s luxury cars are ephemeral. Their transitory and unsubstantial designs are blamed on aerodynamics to optimize fuel economy. Luxury automobiles such as the magnificent 1960 Series 6300 Coupe deVille have become cherished classics. The traditional Cadillac motorcar will always be showcased…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

1960 Cadillac Series 6200 convertible coupé

1960 Cadillac Series 6200 two-door hardtop coupé

1960 Cadillac Series 6400 Eldorado Biarritz convertible coupé

1960 Cadillac Series 6300 Coupe deVille

…the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns”

Welcome to Greg’s World…

1978 Cadillac DeVille Coupe d’Elegance

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical, Classic American Marques, Editorials, Extreme Luxury with tags "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Coupe deVille, Cadillac Special Editions: 1978 DeVille Coupe d'Elegance, Cadillac Style, Classic Cadillac, DeVille, luxury cars, NotoriousLuxury on September 13, 2015 by 99MilesPerHour

The ultimate expression of Cadillac opulence…

…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

The Cadillac DeVille has always been America’s favorite luxury car. The Coupe deVille is a luxury car of elegant refinement…roomy, distinctive, and consistently a leader in both resale value and repeat ownership. The 1977-1979 model years are the first totally new redesign and downsizing known as “The next generation of the luxury car.”

The excitement of owning a Coupe deVille is augmented by Cadillac special editions which are a unique manner to express one’s individuality. Rarely does an automobile become a classic in its own time as the DeVille series gaining respect and admiration world-wide. The 1978 Cadillac DeVille Coupe d’Elegance presents a stunning encore performance…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Opulent, sophisticated, and decadently luxurious is Cadillac’s d’Elegance luxury package. It began as a special edition for the Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham for the 1973 model year and was available for the DeVille series beginning in the 1974 model year. These lavishly equipped luxury cars are the epitome of Cadillac elegance.

The DeVille d’Elegance is trimmed exquisitely in the grand Cadillac tradition. This special edition features subtle refinements that escalates the elegance of the Coupe deVille and Sedan deVille to new heights of luxury and distinction. This stunning luxury package was built at a highly restricted pace to retain exclusivity and stature.

For the 1978 model year the exclusive limited edition d’Elegance option was $689. It includes contoured pillow-style seating sumptuously upholstered in Random velour and was available in five dramatic colors. Power assisted 50/50 dual comfort front seats and plush deep-pile carpet completes the interior’s refinement.

Signature exterior features include opera lamps, special pin striping, and color-keyed vinyl body side moldings. Exclusive “d’Elegance” nomenclature adorns the rear sail panels and interior glove box door to deftly identify it as a Cadillac special edition. The 1978 DeVille Coupe d’Elegance is the ultimate expression of America’s favorite luxury car.

The first generation Cadillac Seville was built from 1976-1979

The 1977-1979 DeVilles were redesigned in a new precision size based upon the highly successful first generation Cadillac Seville. They retained the legendary Cadillac luxury, security, and roominess. The new size makes them more maneuverable with surprising performance not usually found in a luxury car.

Their advanced engineering is developed with computer technology which also makes them easier to service. Cadillac introduced them as “The next generation of the luxury car.” They ride upon a long 121.5” wheelbase, have the luxury length of 221.2”, and are 76.4” wide. Despite the drastic downsizing from their 1976 counterpart, they dwarf modern-day automobiles by a long shot –

The next generation DeVilles are built as body on frame construction. They have a traditionally mounted engine in front with rear-wheel drive. This type of construction is engineered for structural integrity. Specially hardened friction plates assure strut-to-body joints remain tight and rattle-free. The body is married to a rigid ladder-type frame with welded cross members for extra strength.

The 1978 Cadillac DeVille was in the second year of the major redesign. It was refined and freshened mildly. The front end design received a new grille. The rear end ensemble received new bumper end caps with slim taillamps. The aerodynamic, wind-cheating design of the 1977-1979 models achieved the greatest fuel economy in the history of the brand at the time. The styling is crisp, timeless, and completely in character with Cadillac.

The totally new restyled Cadillac unites its traditional dignity with a youthful new look. The size is particularly attractive to the ladies. Model # 6C style code # D47 1978 Coupe deVille had a base price of $10,444 with a base shipping weight of 4,163 pounds. There were 117,750 Coupe deVille models built for the model year. Superb luxury and Cadillac elegance made it America’s favorite luxury car annually –

The 1978 Cadillac DeVilles are powered in the traditional Cadillac manner. America’s favorite luxury car offers highly spirited performance with its 7.0 litre 16-valve 425 CID V8 engine. This is one of Cadillac’s last reliable V8 engines. The 425 CID V8 is based upon the old 7.7 litre 472 CID V8 architecture but uses a smaller 4.08” bore and a shorter 4.06” stroke. It is also 100 pounds lighter. The 7.0 litre is the 90 degree V-type running in five main bearings mounted in three points in rubber.

It has overhead valves with a cast iron block and cylinder heads for longevity. The beautifully responsive engine is equipped with a Rochester 4-bbl carburetor, a mechanical fuel pump, and a 25.4 gallon fuel tank. The engine is mated to GM’s versatile THM-400 Turbo Hydra-Matic 3-speed automatic transmission. Emission controls include Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV), Air Injection Reactor (AIR), Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), Early Fuel Evaporation, Evaporative Control, and Oxidizing Converter.

The naturally aspirated L33 7.0 litre carbureted version produces 180 hp @ 4,000 rpm with 434 Nm of peak torque @ 2,000 rpm. Longitudinal acceleration is rated as: 0-60 mph in 11.2 seconds, 0-100 mph in 36.8 seconds with a top speed in the 115 mph range. It does the ¼ mile @ 77 mph in 18.7 seconds.

One could also opt for the Electronic Fuel Injected version for an additional $744. The naturally aspirated L35 EFI 7.0 litre V8 produces 195 hp @ 3,800 rpm with 434 Nm of peak torque @ 2,400 rpm. Longitudinal acceleration is rated as 0-60 mph in 10.9 seconds, 0-100 mph in 33.9 seconds with a top speed in the 117 mph range. It can do the ¼ mile @ 78 mph in 18.5 seconds.

There really isn’t that much of a difference as far as speed, but the EFI version operates a lot smoother and can actually get better mpgs than the carbureted version. Fuel injected versions and cars built for the California market include Air Injection Reactor (AIR) and Exhaust Pressure Transducer for EGR.

Standard features and accessories for the 1978 DeVilles exceed the competition. Automatic Climate Control heats, cools, and ventilates with one touch of a button without further intervention. Power windows and door locks, power six-way front seat, and AM/FM Signal-Seeking Stereo Radio with power antenna add comfort and convenience to America’s favorite luxury car. These are just a few of the myriad standard amenities. Cadillac also offered more optional features and accessories than the other luxury brands. This is why Cadillac was the leader in the industry for high-end automobiles.

Cadillac special editions are a unique manner to express one’s individuality. The DeVille series remains America’s favorite luxury car. For the 1978 model year, the DeVille Coupe d’Elegance option offered subtle refinements that set it apart from the stock Coupe deVille. This exclusive luxury package is designed to satisfy the most discerning Cadillac buyer. DeVille d’Elegance is the ultimate expression of opulence and exclusivity. The trim, precision size and powerful 7.0 litre V8 engine makes it a spirited performer on the road.

The 1977-1979 DeVilles achieved the greatest mpgs in the history of the brand at the time. Legendary Cadillac luxury, security, and roominess are dramatically evident. The elegant Cadillac Coupe deVille was consistently the leader in repeat ownership and resale value. The 1978 Cadillac DeVille Coupe d’Elegance is another exciting and highly successful chapter…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Special thanks to Rodd Sala at Park Ward Motors Museum

1979 Cadillac Phaeton special edition

Special thanks to Bob Adams Classic Cars

“As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Requiem For A Legend: 1976 Cadillac Coupe deVille

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags Cadillac Coupe deVille, Classic Cadillac, Coupe deVille, DeVille, NotoriousLuxury, Requiem For A Legend: 1976 Cadillac Coupe deVille on February 21, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

We bid farewell to the last full-size Coupe deVille in 1976

114,482 Coupes deVille were built for the 1976 model year

“As the Standard of the World Turns….”

The 1976 Cadillac Coupe deVille was the nostalgic end of an illustrious era in motoring. The 1976 model year rolled the last full-sized Coupe deVille off the assembly line. The Coupe deVille was Cadillac with a youthful elegance. It was the ultimate in personal luxury. Two-door styling combined with spacious six passenger comfort made the Cadillac Coupe deVille one of America’s two favorite luxury cars….the other was the Sedan deVille. The DeVille series was crafted out of a tradition of excellence. The 1976 Cadillacs impressively reaffirmed the tradition of leadership that long made the brand the “Standard of the World.” This was another spectacular DeVille standing ovation for the encore performance….in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

There will NEVER be another Coupe deVille….it was a perennial favorite among luxury car buyers. The Cadillac Coupe deVille was a youthful and beautiful way to motor in Cadillac luxury and leadership. Its tasteful appointments and deep-seated luxury were matched by the quality of its performance and ease of operation. The Coupe deVille was enjoyed by more luxury car buyers than any other brand. Its distinctive lines marked it unmistakably Cadillac. Coupe deVille’s distinctive individuality set it apart from other fine cars.

The Coupe deVille began as a fancy trim option package as a pillarless hardtop luxury coupe in 1949. Each subsequent year the Coupe deVille became more exclusive, always innovative and uniquely individual, it had a personality all its own. The 1976 Coupe deVille was no exception to the luxurious rule. The smaller coach windows were a Coupe deVille styling tour-de-force exclusive to this model, added classic personal car appeal. The 1976 Coupe deVille still looks good today…..after all, a lady’s performance is not measured by her years!

Its dramatic front end design was augmented by rectangular headlamps and wrap-around cornering lamps built as a single unit. The hood and front fenders were beveled lowering the nose clip considerably from the 1971 bodyshell origin. The extra-long hood and rear deck contributed to its tastefully flowing contemporary silhouette. Only the 1976 Coupe deVille could combine such tasteful individuality and youthful spirit in one great luxury car. The glamorous Coupe deVille was popular with discriminating motorists all over the world. Freedom of spirit and a taste for luxury were combined magnificently in the 1976 Coupe deVille.

This long, low, masterful motorcar was powered by Cadillac’s highly efficient 8.2 litre 500 CID 16-valve OHV V8 engine. This was a version of the Eldorado V8 engine introduced for the 1970 model year. The engine was equipped with a 4-bbl downdraft Quadrajet with an electric choke which improved fuel economy and operation. It came standard with a High Energy Ignition system. This was a solid-state unit that eliminated breaker points, rubbing block, and condenser which attributed to faster starting and overall fuel economy. With the combination of the HEI, catalytic converter, and the use of un-leaded fuel, the engine could go up to 22,500 miles between tune-ups.

The 8.2 litre V8 was equipped with EPA mandated emission controls that included: Positive Crankcase Ventilation, Air Injector Reactor, Exhaust Gas Recirculation with exhaust pressure transducer, and Early Fuel Evaporation, Evaporative Control. The AIR system and exhaust pressure transducer were used on cars for the California market and cars equipped with EFI systems. With the use of a catalytic converter, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide gasses were filtered and exhausted as carbon dioxide and water.

Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 11 seconds, 0-100 mph in 34 seconds with a top speed of 119 mph. It did the ¼ mile @ 79 mph in 18 seconds. The 8.2 litre V8 produced 215 hp @ 3,600 rpm with 542 Nm of peak torque @ 2,000 rpm. The engine was available with carburetion or EFI. The carburetted version used an in-line mechanical fuel pump. The EFI version used two electric fuel pumps one in-line and the other in-tank. The EFI version operated smoother with increased fuel economy, faster starting, and quicker take-offs from the traffic lights. The engine had power in reserve for merging into highway lanes and accident avoidance….chomp the accelerator pedal and the issues you just avoided are in your rearview mirror….easily

The 8.2 litre V8 was mated to GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic THM-400 3-speed automatic transmission. It used a torque converter with fixed stator, which multiplied engine torque to increase driving thrust to drive wheels during acceleration in any forward gear. The torque converter was refined making it tighter resulting in more immediate response improving fuel economy. The axle ratio was lowered to also increase fuel economy. I never thought I would live to see the day when Cadillac and fuel economy were on the same page.

The 1976 Coupe deVille was built as body on frame construction using Cadillac’s rugged perimeter frame with heavy gauged boxed side rails. The front suspension used upper and lower control arms, integral steering knuckle, arm & caliper support, integral hubs and rotors on spindles, tapered roller bearings, spherical joints with wear indicators on the lower joints, coil springs, and hydraulic double action shock absorbers. The rear suspension used Cadillac’s four-link drive, coil springs, and hydraulic double action shock absorbers. The 1976 Coupe deVille was a very large front engine rear drive vehicle. It rode on a long 130” wheelbase, had the luxury length of 230.7”, and a 79.8” wide stance.

The 1976 Cadillac Coupe deVille had a spacious six passenger interior. Traditional Fleetwood hand crafted interiors were available in a variety of trim combinations. Merlin, an elegant plaid material was available in two colors. Magnan, a luxurious ribbed knit fabric was available in six colors. A leather upholstered interior was available in eleven color/trim combinations.

Standard Cadillac luxury included: power windows and door locks, Variable Ratio power steering, power six-way seat, Automatic Climate Control, AM/FM Stereo radio with power antenna, lamp monitors, quartz digital clock, and folding center armrests front and rear. Cadillac offered more standard features and accessories to add further distinction to the 1976 Coupe deVille. A few of the more popular options included: sunroof, glass Astro-roof, illuminated entry system, tilt & telescopic steering wheel, Twilight Sentinel, Theft Deterrent system, and remote control trunk lock with power pull-down. As you may see the Cadillac Coupe deVille was a car-complete even without options. There was nothing quite like the traditional Cadillac….Model code #6D D47 Coupe deVille had a base price of $9,067 and 114,482 were built. The 1976 Sedan deVille tallied 67,677 units built for the model year.

Beauty, performance, and a high re-sale value was the secret to the Coupe deVille’s popularity. It was the perennial favorite among luxury car buyers. The 1976 Coupe deVille was equipped with the highly efficient 8.2 litre Eldorado V8 engine. The spacious six passenger comfort and elegant two-door styling made it unique among the world’s great cars. The Coupe deVille was often imitated but never replicated, it offered automotive distinction since 1949 that only Cadillac could create.

With all of its Cadillac elegance, standard features and accessories, combined with its astonishing performance, the 1976 Coupe deVille was America’s favorite luxury car once again. This was the last full-size Coupe deVille to roll off the assembly line. It was also the last model year to use the formidable 8.2 litre 500 CID V8 engine. After the 1976 model year, Cadillac began to drift into obscurity. The brand was never the same….this is a farewell tribute to the illustrious full-size 1976 Coupe deVille which was a legend in its own time….in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.” Now….I present thirty years of the Cadillac Coupe deVille…..

1956 Cadillac Series Sixty-Two Coupe deVille

The 1966 Cadillac Coupe deVille

The 1976 Cadillac Coupe deVille

Just more superlative-superlatives………in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

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1949 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe deVille

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1949 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe deVille, Cadillac, Cadillac Coupe deVille, Classic Cadillac, NotoriousLuxury on December 10, 2013 by 99MilesPerHour

This was the very first Coupe deVille

The DeVille legend began as the hardtop Coupe deVille

The DeVille legend began when the hardtop was introduced as the pillarless 1949 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe deVille. This all-new body style mocked a convertible’s design with a fixed roof configuration. The 1949 model year was also the introduction of the all-new Cadillac 331 CID Over Head Valve V8 engine. The first Coupe deVille appeared as a concept car for the 1949 Autorama. GM was the first automaker to introduce the pillarless hardtop as the Cadillac Coupe deVille, Buick Roadmaster Riviera, and the Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight Holiday.

The prototype Coupe deVille was built on a Cadillac Sixty-Special platform. The car had a one-piece windshield and backglass. It was equipped with a telephone in the glove compartment, a vanity case, secretarial pad in the rear arm rest, power windows, and decorative chrome interior trim.

The 1949 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe deVille was priced at $3,496. It was trimmed with a leather interior that used chrome bows in the headlining to mock the look of a convertible. The Coupe deVille came with power windows as standard, like the convertible. This car was such a sensation, 2,150 Series 62 Coupe DeVilles were sold the first year. The Coupe deVille was a prestige package option for the Series 62 coupe. Sales of the Coupe deVille more than doubled to 4,507 units for the 1950 model year, but more than doubled again in 1951 with 10,241 units built. The Coupe deVille was one of Cadillac’s top selling models annually.

The revolutionary new 1949 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe deVille was powered by an all-new V8 engine that had been evolving before 1936. By the mid 1940s, the old “L-Head” engine had reached its limits for compression. The 1949 331 CID V8 had design goals to accomplish: good fuel economy, smooth performance, light-weight construction, longevity, clean design, and optimum serviceability. All of this was achieved after 1,000,000 miles of testing, more than 25 engines had been built and were subject to the most strenuous testing. For example, one production engine was run at full throttle @ 4,250 rpm for more than 100 hours. The engine showed no major wear. This was the norm with Cadillac engineering back in the day. They never produced a product without thorough testing before it went into the real world. One NEVER heard of “loose-bolt/head gasket syndrome”, ever, with a traditional Cadillac.

The Cadillac 331 CID V8 had cast iron heads and block with 16 over-head valves. A Carter WCD742S 2-bbl carburetor was standard. The engine produced 160 hp @ 3,800 rpm with 423 Nm of peak torque @ 1,800 rpm. It was rated 0-60 mph in 13.4 seconds, 0-100 mph in 35.7 seconds, and had a top speed of 100 mph. It could do the ¼ mile @ 72 mph in 19.0 seconds. The engine was mated to the GM Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission which was standard for the Series 62. This car was impressive by its silence and stability at higher speeds.

The 1949 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe deVille was built as body on frame construction. It had a rugged Cadillac X-frame with deep X-member junction and reinforced side members. Double ride stabilizers with torsion bar type up front and cross-link type in the rear, held the car level and promoted roadability and safety. The front suspension was the independent Knee-Action type with large helical coil springs. The rear used semi-elliptic springs. The spring leaves were lubricated by wax-impregnated liners. It also used a semi-floating hypoid rear axle. The Series 62 Coupe deVille had the luxury length of 215”, rode on a long 126” wheelbase, and was 78.9” wide. This was a large front engine rear drive coupe.

The 1949 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe deVille was a stunning departure from the past. Its pillarless hardtop design would become popular with automakers throughout the years to come. The newly developed 331 CID OHV V8 engine was just the beginning of the impressive V8 power plants from the Cadillac Motor Car Division. The “Standard of the World” was a leader in technology, the purveyor of the luxury automobile. The 1949 Series 62 Coupe deVille was a most elegant way to travel Cadillac style. The Coupe deVille had a long and successful production run from 1949 until 1993.