1948 Series 61 Cadillac history

Major design changes marked the short wheelbase Cadillacs (series 61) for 1948.

They featured General Motors first all-new postwar body with styling advances including tailfins inspired by the Lockheed P-38 fighter plane.
There was also an attractive egg crate grille which was higher in the middle than on the sides.
The front of the car was protected by a heavier and more massive bumper bar which curved around the fenders.
The Cadillac crest was centered low in a 'V' above the radiator grille.
Chrome headlamp rims were used.
Cars in the 61 series lacked bright metal front fender shields and under-taillight trim.
A new dashboard with "rainbow" style instrument cluster and leather grained panels extending to the carpets was seen only this year.

I. D. NUMBERS

Cadillac serial numbers again matched motor numbers and were used for all license, insurance and identification purposes.

They were placed in the same locations as before.

Motor serial numbers 48100001 to 486148663 appeared on 1948 Series 61 models.

STYLE

Model Number	Body Style	Doors	Model	Seating	Factory Price	Shipping Weight	Production Total
48-61	6169	4-door	Sedan	5	2833	4150	5,081
48-61	6107	2-door	Club Coupe	5	2728	4068	3,521
48-61	-	-	Chassis only	-	-	-	1

ENGINE

Type	V-8 L-head.
Block	Cast iron block.
Displacement	346 cubic inches.
Bore and stroke	3-1/2 x 4-1/2 inches.
Compression ratio	7.25:1.
Brake horsepower	150 at 3400 rpm
Bearings	Three main bearings.
Valve lifters	Hydraulic valve lifters.
Carburetor	Carter WCD two-barrel (models 595S or 595SA) or Stromberg AAV-26 two-barrel (models 380154 or 380871).

1948 CADILLAC
Series 61