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.

I. D. NUMBERS

STYLE

Model NumberBody StyleDoorsModelSeatPriceWeightProduction Total
50-6161694-doorSedan5$28661737 kg14,619
50-6161372-doorClub Coupe5$27611740 kg11,839
50-616169 Export Sedan5$28661737 kg312
50-61  Chassis only   2

NOTE: The sedan for export was shipped in a CKD form to foreign countries.

ENGINE

TypeV-8: Overhead valves.
BlockCast iron block.
Displacement5.425 Liter
Bore and stroke96.8mm x 92.1mm
Compression ratio7.50:1.
Brake horsepower160 hp @ 3800 rpm
Power119 kW @ 3800 rpm
BearingsFive main bearings.
Valve liftersHydraulic valve lifters.
CarburetorCarter WCD two-barrel Model 742S.

CHASSIS

ModelWheelbaseOverall lengthFront TreadRear TreadTires
Series 613099mm5382mm1499mm1600mm8.00 x 15

POWER TRAIN OPTIONS

Hydra-Matic drive$174

CONVENIENCE OPTIONS

LITERATURE & LINKS