Modern luxury car manufacturers typically adopt subtle and restrained styling, but that hasn’t always been the case. This 1959 Cadillac Sedan de Ville demonstrates that better than almost any car from that era. From its towering fins to the bullet taillights, it has become an icon of the 1950s. This classic is a gem that presents superbly. It is almost beyond criticism, and the only thing it needs is a new home. It will be fascinating to gauge your response once you see what it offers and if any readers are tempted to pursue it further. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this jaw-dropping beauty.
Cadillac offered its First Generation de Ville range in four body styles, with this car’s first owner selecting the 4-Window Sedan version. It is often called the “Flat Top” due to the relatively flat roof. Some don’t consider it as elegant as the Coupe de Ville, but the configuration provides excellent rear headroom. This car’s Ebony paint is stunning, with an impressive depth of color and shine. There is no evidence of flaws or defects, and the panels appear laser-straight. Subtle is a word seldom used to describe the 1959 Cadillac range, with the styling dominated by enormous fins, bullet taillights, and acres of chrome trim. Taillights are prone to damage, but the ones on this car look perfect. The spotless bright trim sparkles in the sunlight, and the glass is crystal clear. The 15″ steel wheels retain their factory hubcaps and are wrapped in whitewalls to add the perfect finishing touch to a car that can’t help but turn heads.
Subtle is one word that is seldom used to describe a ’59 Cadillac, and with the Sedan de Ville tipping the scales at 5,000 lbs, light is another that isn’t over-used. The Caddy is a luxury car, but buyers still required effortless performance. The company came to the party with its 390ci V8. This silky smooth powerplant delivers 325hp and 430 ft/lbs of torque. A standard four-speed Hydramatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes further underscored its luxury credentials. The engine bay presents beautifully, with no evidence of fluid leaks or other problems. The seller claims an odometer reading of 40,000 original miles, and while they don’t mention supporting evidence, the car’s overall condition makes the claim plausible. Potential buyers can consider it a turnkey proposition that runs and drives as it should. Someone only needs to hand their money to the seller, and they can hit the road behind this classic’s wheel.
The theme of spotless presentation continues inside this Cadillac. Its combination of Black and White cloth and vinyl is as classy as you might rightly expect from a high-end luxury car, and there is no evidence of wear or other issues. The speakers mounted on the rear package tray are fed by the Pioneer CD player by the driver’s left knee, but those are the only apparent changes. The installer cut nothing during the fitment, meaning reversing the change should be straightforward. Otherwise, this interior needs nothing. It isn’t as highly optioned as it could be if the original owner had attacked the Order Form with reckless abandon. However, the air conditioning, power windows, and power front seat should make life on the road pretty enjoyable.
The word “icon” is probably overused, but it is appropriate for the 1959 Cadillac. This Sedan de Ville is a gem that needs nothing but a new home, with the seller listing it here on Craigslist in Simi Valley, California. They set their price at $59,500, and while that isn’t pocket change, it is consistent for a car of this caliber. This Caddy has been on the market for less than a day, and I think it will find a home fairly quickly. Are you tempted to take this beauty home?
Pictures never really do justice as to just how huge those ’59 cadillac tail fins are. Standing next to them you are shocked at something so wild made it into production.
Mu Oldest half brother bought one of these fine Caddies in 1959 shipped to our dad in Messina Sicily. He Loved in but mist roads were too narrow and winding..
UTDFROG These old Cadillacs were affectionately called hogs back in the day for obvious reasons. IMO this masterpiece outshines the convertible and the 2 door hardtop. This won’t last.
frog YOU ARE dead on correct BUT in minority communities where folks had not the funds to own home they bought Cadillacs AND fondly called them HOGS!
What a nice example! Even has factory AC! All she needs are correct tires and a horn ring. Each costing about $1500.
Someone is going to get a real gem.
You are partially correct. Had a NOS horn ring, in the original box, about 7 years ago. Sold it on eBay to Sweden for $2500.
No one complained about the curb feelers? Excellent Caddy. Dad’s last car was a ’59 Pontiac Catalina Vista (4-door hardtop, “flat roof”, like this de Ville). Fond memory of being a kid and the tinted windshield band and glass. The wrap around rear glass still looks good today.
Our ‘53 Caddy was aging out by 1961, and Dad was looking for a “new” Cadillac. He wasn’t willing to take the hit on new car depreciation- though he liked the ‘61s. 60s? No. ‘59s? No Way. He thought that giant fins looked ridiculous. So- he bought a cream colored ’58 Sedan deVille Series 62 extended deck model. (11” frame extension on the rear!) He went on to buy 2 ‘64s, (a Sedan deVille and a Fleetwood), a ‘67 Sedan deVille- and an ‘80 Eldorado diesel 😬 In his words, the diesel Eldorado “broke him of Cadillacs”, and he switched to Lincoln’s.
Your father had a good taste.
In fact, the extended deck models were more popular than the shorter standard versions.
Ask me how I know- I got a green 58 Series 62 4- Door Extended Deck in my garage.. great and classy ride.
Bob Mck I was on leave In Columbus Ohio from having been in South America with our UDT team, all of us had big money from being there with the Israelis realis. We were on long street heading for my home when we passed a Caddy Dealership AND THERE it was glowing in dark blue. Noses to the window but knowing NOI WAY.. could we have that beauty.
I own a 59 flat top deVille. I’m wondering if the door panels have been redone. Maybe it was an option for monochrome, but I believe the black and white seen on the seats carried on to the doors as well
WOW John you are a blessed man. I’m a Buick guy but love what Cadillac has done. My favorite is the 56 fast back. Presently my 54.Century is in the shop having a Holley EFI 2 installed along with a late mode 6 speed tranny HOOOYAAA!
On second look, the entire interior appears to be redone. If I go by the steering wheel, the interior would have been two tone grey or silver and black and the black seat material is close in style but not correct. Still a very nice car though- favorite year.
Beautiful condition!