1950 Cadillac Series 61 Two Door Club Coupe

1950 Cadillac Series 61 Two Door Club Coupe
Chassis no. 50 61 22296
331ci, OHV V8 Engine
Two Barrel Carburetor
160bhp at 3,800 rpm
3-Speed Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission
Independent Coil Spring Front Suspension and Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs with Semi-Floating Rear Axle
4-Wheel Bendix Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Offered from the Two Generations Collection
*Elegant Club Coupe
*Restoration project

† Sold In Situ - Noted lot is being sold in situ and preview is available Tuesday and Wednesday May 30th and 31st. To make arrangements to view the lots and for further information please contact motors.us@bonhamscars.com.

Please refer to the Buyer Information page for further information.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

During the immediate post-war period, Cadillac, under the direction of Harley Earl, produced some of the world's most attractive automobiles and pioneered the ultimate direction for American automobile styling over the next decade. The cars surpassed their competition not only visually but technologically as well, introducing a potent OHV V-8 in 1949, which was no doubt a factor in Motor Trend's decision to christen the 1949 Cadillac as their very first "Car of the Year". During this period, the Cadillac brand truly lived up to its slogan "Standard of the World".

Cadillacs were status symbols – a Cadillac in the driveway certainly emblematic of the American Dream – and while the cars offered luxurious appointments, they could also be driven with some vigor. This was proven by Briggs Cunningham, who – to the utter disbelief of the French – entered the 1950 24 Hours of Le Mans with an essentially stock Series 61 Coupe, and managed to finish an incredible 10th place overall.

Representing roughly 40% of the production for the year, and priced at $2,761 these Club Coupes are undeniably elegant. The Two Generations Cadillac here rested alongside a number of others of its manufacture in the collection, the majority being of the Brass Era. It is uncertain when this joined the group and a cursory inspection suggests that while it has undeniable qualities of originality it is in need of refurbishment and aesthetic attention and should be considered an 'as is' project car.