Image credits: © Cadillac. GM Corp.

1959 Cadillac Cyclone XP-74 news, pictures, and information

The Cyclone looked more like a jet aircraft than a car, its two fenders resembling rockets. The two flat door segments could be slid back. The revolutionary design was matched by the radar-sensing crash avoidance system and the Plexiglass bubble-top that automatically closed when its sensor detected rain.

Source - GM

The Cadillac Cyclone was an indication of the United States obsession with jet design and aerodynamics. During the early 1950's GM introduced their Firebird concepts which featured dramatic and bold designs powered by gas turbine engines.

Powering the Cyclone was a modified version of a V8 engine capable of producing 325 horsepower. The headlights could be completely hidden above the grill. Located in the nose cones were radars which aided in crash avoidance. The exhaust system was located directly behind the nose cone and in front of the front wheels. Located in the rear were large tail lights which gave the impression of jet exhausts. Small wings finished off the Cyclone and would eventually make it into production.

Getting in and out of the car was relatively easy, thanks in part to sliding doors. The practicality continued with small panels being located in each door, allowing for easy access to pay tolls.

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Roadster
Designer: Harley Earl

The bold Cyclone roadster was Harley Earl's last dream car. Its rocket tube-shaped body, aircraft cockpit canopy, sliding doors and 'mile-high' fins reflected the country's then-contemporary fascination with rocketry and future space travel. Its engine was a 325-bhp, 390 cubic-inch V8, a Hydra-Matic transmission and a two-speed differential, which permitted six forward speeds. All the accessories were located in front of the engine and were divided by belts. The Cadillac Cyclone was the first to use Saginaw rotary valve power steering, as well as power brakes that employed a pressure servo and a reserve tank. Revised with the shorter fins shown here shortly after Mr. Earl's retirement. The bubble canopy stows under the rear decklid.

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1959 Cadillac models
Cadillac DeVille
Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz
Cadillac Eldorado Seville
Cadillac Series 62
Cadillac Series 6700 Fleetwood 75
Cadillac Series Sixty Special Fleetwood

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