When Cadillac resumed civilian automobile production in October 1945, the entire model line benefited from the company’s considerable wartime experience, which included the production of some 12,000 M-5 light tanks and motorized gun carriers. Although the postwar Cadillac V8 engines had the same displacement and rated horsepower as their prewar counterparts, many internal parts were improved for greater strength and reliability following the experience gained in combat conditions. The state-of-the-art Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was also improved using the lessons learned in wartime.

The first post-war Cadillacs appeared in late 1945 and were virtually identical to those manufactured before the onset of war. Demand for all automobiles was so high that buyers were given very little choice as to what they wanted, and companies like Cadillac produced only single versions of a model, knowing that they could sell whatever they produced. As a result, nearly 90-percent of 1947 Cadillacs had the smart Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. While these new cars were priced about $200 higher than the 1946 model, they adopted subtle styling cues, such as the “sombrero” wheel covers and additional badges and scripts. Pricing was reasonable, and as a result, the Series 62 was Cadillac’s best seller.

The bread and butter of the Cadillac line remained its Series 62, the mid-level model with modern styling, clean lines, and a strong Cadillac identity; for many, it was what they thought of when “the Standard of the World” came to mind. Interiors were well-appointed with the latest features and luxurious broadcloth or leather upholstery, and Cadillac’s well-proven 346-cubic inch V-8 was reassuringly tucked away under that massive hood. Strong, quiet, and reliable, these cars accounted for Cadillac’s ever-expanding reputation among luxury car buyers during the immediate post-war era.

This beautiful 1947 Cadillac convertible has just gone through a complete two-year body off the frame restoration. It has been documented with over 200 pictures that are in a photo album as well as a CD to show every step of this incredible restoration. The chassis has been sand blasted, gas tank replaced, transmission rebuilt, new front and rear end installed and the brake and gas lines replaced. In addition all the rubber on the car as well as the chrome, stainless and pot metal has been made to correct General Motors Cadillac specifications for 1947. All the nuts, bolts and screws have been cadmium plated or replaced with factory correct replacements and beautiful Seine Blue paint has been perfectly applied. Spacecoast Plating in Melbourne, Florida completed all the chrome and metal work to tie the pretty package together.

The beautiful two-tone interior was finished at Hoyt's Auto Upholstery in Sarasota, Florida. This stunning car was finished approximately two weeks ago and has been driven just 47 test miles since. Designed by the Famous Harley Earl, it is powered by a 346-cid, 150-hp V-8 engine with the optional four-speed Hydra-matic automatic transmission. The 1947 Cadillac Series 62 is also recognized by the esteemed Classic Car Club of America as a Full Classic and as so, will be eligible for their shows and CARavans.