1949 Cadillac Series 75 Imperial Sedan

Cadillac introduced rear tailfins on their 1948 models, which had been inspired by the P-38 Lighting aircraft used during World War II. The following year, the GM division announced the first two-door Hardtop (along with Buick and Oldsmobile) known as the Coupe deVille. A new engine was unveiled, a modern overhead valve V8 that boasted better performance and fuel economy along with smoother operation in a lighter, smaller displacement engine. The development for the engine had begun in 1936. When introduced, it was 200 pounds lighter, five inches shorter, and four inches lower than the previous L-head V8.

The Series 75 was Cadillac's most luxurious and largest car offered by the marque. They had the new engine and a revised dashboard that appeared on other Cadillac models. The most expensive body style and model in the Cadillac line-up were the Series 75 Imperial Limousine which sold for $5,170 and was also one of the most exclusive with just 626 units created in 1949.

This example is painted in Antoinette Blue lacquer and was the beneficiary of an older complete frame-off restoration. There is a driver's compartment in black leather while the passenger compartment is upholstered in wool broadcloth and Wilton wool carpeting. It placed 1st at the Cadillac-LaSalle Club Grand Nationals in 1989 and won an award at Meadow Brook in 1990. In 1991, it was chosen by the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) National Judges as one of the most exceptional automobiles in the country.

In 2009, this Imperial Limousine was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars of Hershey presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $40,000 - $60,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $66,000, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2009