The Cadillac Series 62 had a long and successful lifespan, beginning in 1940 but taking a short break after 1942. It returned in 1946 and was in constant production until 1964, with this 1963 model being a final seventh-generation example. Even though the 62 was nearing the end, it still got yet another restyle for 1963, featuring several exterior modifications that made the car appear even longer. This 1963 Cadillac Series 62 is reported to be all original, and while it’s not quite perfect, this one seems to offer potential buyers far more positives than negatives. Barn Finds tipster Curvette spotted this sedan here on Craigslist in Corvallis, Oregon, and we’d like to thank him for making us aware of it! The owner is asking $5,000, but also mentions he’s open to offers.
Though the seller doesn’t specify the exact date of acquisition, he states that the Caddy had been sitting since the early eighties before he purchased it a few years ago. Other than just getting it running, little more has been done recently, as he quickly moved on to other projects. The 390 is reported to be the original engine, and while it starts and runs, the idle is high. It’s been driven around the neighborhood, but some additional work is recommended before the owner feels comfortable taking it on a long outing. Somewhat ahead of its time is the Jetaway Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, which features four forward gears, with the only reported issues being that its cooling lines and dipstick tube are leaking.
The body is described as practically rust-free, and while it does appear fairly solid for the most part, there are a couple of areas with minor corrosion, both on the passenger side. These include a hole in the front fender near the bottom, plus some bubbling on the skirt covering the rear tire. This is one of those cases where I could see living with the imperfections, since they’re fairly insignificant, or perhaps just repairing those sections and making some touch-ups. Another option is to prep the entire exterior for a complete respray, which doesn’t seem like a major undertaking.
Things inside aren’t flawless either, as the front bench shows a few tears in the fabric. However, the dash and instrument cluster appear to remain in very nice shape, and check out that second passenger ashtray next to the glovebox for your friend who smokes! The rear seat still has part of its plastic covering, and while it’s torn and faded, I can’t imagine removing it all these years later. I’d probably initially invest just enough time and money to get this one running decently, then spend a few seasons driving it before addressing any of the cosmetic issues. What would you do with this 1963 Cadillac Series 62?
All the good deals are in Oregon or Washington.
My dad had a red and white “63 Coupe-de-Ville. It was a beautiful car later I had a Sedan- de-Ville I bought used. However, you mentioned the transmission. Funny since I was going to make a comment about it. Dad’s cars transmission when relatively new went out. When he got it back it was not cheap. The mechanic was frustrated and said he never saw one like it and that it was like working on five transmissions in one.
I think this one is kind of a unicorn. No power windows, no power locks, can’t see if it has power seat, but it does have air cond. I remember back in the late 70’s a small local carlot had one of these for sale. It was in beautiful shape, low miles and only $395. It had zero options, not even a radio. saw it a few weeks later and it was trashed. Back then it was just an old car nobody wanted. This one is going to take some work to bring back, but that’s a whole lotta car for 5 grand.
seems like a square deal. she needs some money put into her, but it would be a killer ride done. standard of the world back then. shame it’s not that way today
Fair price for a great car. Wish I had the time and space. I’ve had a few of these land yachts, I hope they have them in Heaven!
Dang! This is one nice driver! If only I could, I definitely would! GLWTS
Beautifully styled Cadillac. No power windows on a Cadillac? It must have been specially ordered. The stationary rear vent glass gives the roofline a distinctive look. But it takes SO LONG to crank down the windows!