Cadillacs of the 1950s owe their graceful lines to Ed Glowacke, chief designer at the Cadillac Design Studio, a division under Harley Earl. Glowacke was the epitome of Cadillac style, impeccably dressed and just as impeccably mannered. With long, low, and wide as the watchwords for automobile design in the 50s, Glowacke came up with a neat illusion: most cars narrow moving to the front and the back from the center pillar, but Glowacke designed the Cadillac to widen very slightly from the door forward. Only an overhead view makes this obvious. The customer is left with the impression of width. Meanwhile, Glowacke received at least one patent for Cadillac design elements. He would have likely succeeded Harley Earl but for an untimely death. Here on craigslist is an example of modest luxury, a 1957 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe for sale with an asking price of $28,000. This car is located in Detroit, Michigan, though it was originally sold in Pomona, California. Thanks to T.J. for this great tip!

This car runs and drives well, with a rebuilt 365 cu. in. V8 paired with a Rochester four-barrel carburetor and an automatic transmission making about 300 bhp. (The engine was apparently a bit shy for its photo shoot as all we can see is the top of the air filter assembly.) The odometer reads 98,000 miles. Electronic ignition replaces the points, and the car has an electric fuel pump. The exhaust system has been replaced, and the underside reveals what is likely a new gas tank. The car has Wilwood disc brakes and an upgraded brake booster and proportioning valve. This set-up revolutionizes braking for this heavy 50s car, which came from the factory with drums all around. The seller kept all the original parts he replaced, to provide to the new owner.

The seating surfaces are broadcloth with leather or vinyl trim, and extra upholstery fabric comes with the sale. The headliner is nearly perfect, as are the back seats. The dash does have a plastic aftermarket cover installed over the metal. The Caddy has power windows, power steering, power brakes, and a power antenna (needs repair). The heater does not work and is currently bypassed. The radio is also inoperable.

The car has been repainted in its original color but the lacquer paint exhibits some cracking. The rear bumper needs either elbow grease and polish (I like to start with bronze wool) or a much more expensive re-chrome job. While this coupe is one of the down-market Cadillacs – with the rare Eldorado Brougham being the paradigm of luxury – it has substantially identical body panels and most of the desirable options offered on the better models. It runs and drives and its issues are minor. But does all that justify the price? What do you think?