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 overhead-valve V-8. This 331-cubic inch mill was described as being smoother, quieter, better-performing, and more economical to maintain; similar to the new Oldsmobile engine, it had 10 percent more piston displacement, yet it weighed less and produced more horsepower, which began at 160 brake horsepower, 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, 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.

The Series 62 Convertible Coupe offered here was a solid original car with wonderful, flat, undamaged panels, and it received a body-on restoration, retaining many well-kept original parts. Acquired by Mr. and Mrs. Kughn from a prominent Cadillac collection on the East Coast, this beautiful automobile remains in superb condition, with very good black paint and brightwork, complemented by a dark maroon leather interior and a black cloth top with burgundy piping, which is hidden when folded by a matching fabric boot. In addition to such features as a Hydra-Matic transmission, power windows, and a pushbutton radio, it features wide whitewall tires, chrome “sombrero” wheel discs, and dual fog lights with amber lenses. Only lightly worn throughout by gentle use, it remains a beautiful example of an important post-war Cadillac, showing 84,980 miles and ready for a new owner to enjoy. What The Motor said of it in 1949 is equally true today.