Cadillac emerged as the leader in the post-war United States luxury car market on the strength of a full redesign for 1948, which was followed a year later by a new “valve-in-head” V-8. This 331-cubic inch mill was described as being smoother, quieter, better-performing, and more economical to maintain. It was similar to the new Oldsmobile engine, as it had 10 percent more piston displacement, yet it weighed less and produced more horsepower, which began at 160 brake horsepower and was a rating that would steadily increase over the ensuing years and become the basis of power for an entire generation of Cadillac models.

An extended hood line, with the “goddess” hood ornament moved forward, a new grille that wrapped around on to the fenders and around to the wheel openings, and new chrome trim, gave the car a longer, lower, wider stance. Inside, a fully revamped interior boasted a new instrument panel, door moldings, trim, and stylish materials.

Praise for the 1949 Cadillac was literally universal, with Britain’s The Motor declaring that “the car offers astonishing value for the money. It has performance which few makes can rival, and even fewer surpass, a general silence of running, which many will consider unbeaten, and an ease in driving.” Motor Trend was more succinct; it simply named the 1949 Cadillac its very first Car of the Year.

Easily the most desirable body style among Cadillac’s Series 61 line this year was the Club Coupe, which was known to enthusiasts as the Sedanette. This sleek fastback is beautifully represented by the car offered here, which was cosmetically restored from an excellent original example several years ago.

The car is described by the owner as being a “good all-around driver,” and it features high-quality black paintwork and a well-tailored matching leather interior, as well as an assortment of desirable options and accessories, such as a Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a special steering wheel, back-up lights, a windshield washer, chrome wire wheels, and a glove box mirror.

This Sedanette is a very modern and impressive car to enjoy touring in, and it marks a wonderful turning point in Cadillac styling and engineering, as it is a car that really was, in the early post-war era, the “Standard of the World.”