1959 Cadillac Series 62 De Ville Convertible
The 1959 Cadillac Series 62 De Ville is a classic American car that represents the bold styling and luxurious features of that time period. Introduced when Cadillac was at the forefront of automotive innovation, the 1959 models showcased the peak of the brand’s iconic tail fin design.
The Series 62 De Ville was powered by a newly introduced 390ci (6.4-liter) V8 engine, which produced an impressive 325 horsepower. The power plant was a marvel in its own right but often found itself overshadowed by the car’s dramatic styling.
With advanced features such as an automatic transmission, power steering, and power-assisted brakes, the De Ville provided a comfortable, almost effortless, driving experience.
But, it was the car’s striking appearance that truly set it apart. The ’59 Cadillacs featured a pillar-less profile, massive tail fins, abundant chrome trim, color-matched interiors, and unique “jukebox” dashboards.
These design elements combined to create a vehicle that was both visually stunning and instantly recognizable.
One particularly notable example of the 1959 Series 62 De Ville is pictured here. It was owned by the renowned French cartoonist Albert Uderzo, best known for his work on the “Asterix the Gaul” comic series.
Uderzo, an avid car enthusiast with a collection that included numerous Ferraris, purchased the Cadillac in 1988 for 585,000 Belgian francs (about $16k USD at the time) specifically because it was manufactured in the same year that Asterix debuted.
In the early 1990s, Uderzo commissioned an extensive restoration of the car. The restoration process was a testament to Uderzo’s passion for the vehicle, with costs exceeding 440,000 francs (about $12k USD) at the time.
The car was finished in sky blue with a red contrasting interior and in 2022, sold at auction for over €253,000.
Today, the 1959 Cadillac Series 62 De Ville convertible is widely regarded as one of the more sought-after post-war American cars. Its combination of powerful performance, innovative features, and bold styling has solidified its status as an automotive icon.
Credit: Bonhams|Cars
