Serious Fins: 1959 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible

Some readers may disagree, but I’ve always felt that the 1959 Cadillac almost defined the fins trend of the 1950s. I acknowledge that Virgil Exner accentuated the feature as part of his “Forward Look” philosophy. Still, there is something iconic about the Caddy’s brutal fins and bullet taillights that is impossible to ignore. If you share that sentiment, you may be drawn to this 1959 Series 62 Convertible. It presents superbly, but it needs to if the seller’s BIN figure is to be justified. They have listed the classic here on eBay in Sparta, New Jersey. Bidding remains below the reserve at $30,100. However, the BIN figure of $155,000 is genuinely eye-watering.

The word “iconic” is one of the most overused in the classic world. That means it has lost some of its punch, and people often sigh when they see it used to describe an undeserving vehicle. However, few are better suited to describe any 1959 Cadillac, thanks to its extrovert styling. I will stick my neck out and say that this model year is the most recognizable in the marque’s long history. Our featured Caddy is a Series 62 finished in Dover White with a power top in contrasting Black. The presentation is first-rate, with no significant paint or panel shortcomings. I’m sure an in-person inspection will reveal minor flaws, but this Convertible makes a positive first impression. The top fits as tight as a drum, and the trim and glass are excellent.

The bold and brash theme set by the exterior styling continues inside this Convertible, courtesy of its dazzling Red leather trim. The condition is exceptional, and the only fault I’ve spotted is slight wear on the wheel rim. Otherwise, the leather looks free from significant wear, the carpet is excellent, and there are no issues with the dash or pad. If the exterior lacks subtlety, the interior is no different. Chrome trim abounds and shows no evidence of pimples or deterioration. The Caddy isn’t loaded to the brim with luxury appointments, although the buyer receives power windows, a six-way power front seat, a clock, and a pushbutton radio.

Cadillac enjoyed a reputation during this period for producing cars with impressive engines. This Series 62 Convertible is no exception, with its 390ci V8 generating 325hp and 430 ft/lbs of torque. Standard equipment also included the four-speed Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. Considering this Convertible will tip the scales north of 5,000 lbs, it is a surprisingly energetic performer. Coping with heavy city traffic should be a breeze, and it should barely raise a sweat cruising at seventy on the open road. The seller states that this beauty features an Eldorado carburetor and front disc brakes. They recently installed new whitewall tires, springs, and shocks. Although not stated, it appears this Convertible is a turnkey proposition.

This 1959 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible presents superbly, encompassing all that was great about the marque in its prime. It isn’t subtle, and driving one of these cars off the showroom floor was a way of shouting loudly that you were successful, and you weren’t afraid for the world to know. These cars fell out of favor during the 1960s as evolving vehicle design made their appearance obsolete, but they have definitely found their place in the classic market. The seller’s BIN figure is not even close to being affordable, and it also isn’t unprecedented for a car of this caliber. The listing statistics suggest it has drawn some interest, and it will be fascinating to discover whether that translates into sales success.