It is easy for a seller to portray a car as something it isn’t, and many enthusiasts have been caught flat-footed by what they later discover to be a Tribute or clone of a desirable classic. However, that isn’t the case with this 1958 Cadillac, with the seller confirming that while it looks like a Fleetwood, it is a regular Series 62. They are also candid about its condition, leaving potential buyers to contemplate whether they might tackle a cosmetic refresh. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this beauty listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Eldridge, Iowa. It could be yours once you hand the seller $28,975.

While many people focus on the ’59 Cadillac range with the enormous fins and bullet taillights, there is something more elegant and restrained about its predecessor. Sure, it still has fins, but they are less of a hazard for low-flying aircraft. The seller is candid about this Caddy, stating that its Ebony paint doesn’t show as well in person as it does in the photos. That suggests that it may be an ideal candidate for a refresh, although since it doesn’t appear to have any significant shortcomings, the buyer could bide their time while they plan their build. The car features Fleetwood trim, but returning it to its factory form wouldn’t be difficult or expensive. The stainless is in good condition, but the chrome has minor pitting. The tinted glass is clear, and the narrow whitewalls add the ideal finishing touch.

Powering this Cadillac is the company’s 365ci V8 that sends 310hp and 405 ft/lbs of torque to the rear via a four-speed automatic transmission. When combined with power-assisted steering, it provides a surprisingly effortless driving experience for a car that is nearly 217 inches long and tips the scales at 4,850 lbs. Caddy buyers were typically not focused on outright performance, and were more interested in their car’s ability to tackle city traffic or freeway cruising without causing a fuss. This car would have done so in its prime, and should still do so since it is in excellent mechanical health. The seller states it has a genuine 53,000 miles on its odometer, a claim that must be taken at face value due to the lack of verifying evidence. They include an embedded video in their listing of the engine running, and I hear nothing that raises concerns.

The first owner ordered this Series 62 with power windows, an AM radio, and an Autronic eye. These items are intact, and the seller doesn’t indicate if any are inoperative. However, they say that they believe that the vehicle received a retrim in contrasting Black and White leather. The condition isn’t showroom, but it is acceptable for those seeking a driver-grade classic. Some White areas exhibit slight marks and discoloring, and the dashpad exhibits signs of developing deterioration. But with no gaping holes or other problems, nothing requires immediate attention.

Okay, it’s hypothetical time. You’ve splashed your cash on this 1958 Cadillac Series 62, and it is now sitting in your garage. What do you do next? Do you leave it essentially untouched, enjoying this classic in its current form? Or, would a cosmetic refresh prove irresistible? Some may throw caution to the wind by returning it to a factory-fresh state with its original trim. There are no right or wrong answers in a case like this, only enthusiasts who are willing to make the commitment. Are you one of those individuals?