Cadillacs had extensive styling changes this year. They looked generally heavier and had low, sleek contours with longer rear decks, more sweeping front fenders and a broken rear fender line. The hood protruded further out at the front and was underlined by an even more massive egg crate grille. Round parking lights were used, but as in the past, when buyers chose fog lamps an additional bulb and larger housing were used. This setup combined the fog lamps and directional signals. One-piece windshields were introduced and the leading edge of the rear fenders, which had a broken-off look, was highlighted by chrome imitation air slots. The rear fenders were longer and ended in a swooping tailfin design. A Cadillac script again appeared on the sides of front fenders, but was now positioned closer to the front door opening gap.
As far as Series 61 models went, a big styling change was a return to marketing this line on a shorter wheelbase than used on the 62s. This led to some styling differences. For example, the Series 61 sedan had no rear ventipanes and featured a wraparound backlight (i.e., rear window). An identifying feature on both models was the absence of rocker panel moldings and rear quarter panel chrome underscores. Cars in Cadillac's lowest-priced range also had bodies which were 100mm shorter than the previous season.
Model Number | Body Style | Doors | Model | Seat | Price | Weight | Production Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
50-61 | 6169 | 4-door | Sedan | 5 | $2866 | 1737 kg | 14,619 |
50-61 | 6137 | 2-door | Club Coupe | 5 | $2761 | 1740 kg | 11,839 |
50-61 | 6169 | Export Sedan | 5 | $2866 | 1737 kg | 312 | |
50-61 | Chassis only | 2 |
NOTE: The sedan for export was shipped in a CKD form to foreign countries.
Type | V-8: Overhead valves. |
Block | Cast iron block. |
Displacement | 5.425 Liter |
Bore and stroke | 96.8mm x 92.1mm |
Compression ratio | 7.50:1. |
Brake horsepower | 160 hp @ 3800 rpm |
Power | 119 kW @ 3800 rpm |
Bearings | Five main bearings. |
Valve lifters | Hydraulic valve lifters. |
Carburetor | Carter WCD two-barrel Model 742S. |
Model | Wheelbase | Overall length | Front Tread | Rear Tread | Tires |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Series 61 | 3099mm | 5382mm | 1499mm | 1600mm | 8.00 x 15 |