Resuscitation Required: 1960 Cadillac Ambulance

One common denominator that those who enjoy restoring cars sometimes share is that many are after the same makes and models of classics to take on as projects.  However, a few seek the unusual, desiring to bring vehicles back to life that are often overlooked by the masses.  This 1960 Cadillac ambulance would undoubtedly fall into the latter category, and while it will take a massive amount of work to get back on the road, the rewards here just might be worth the effort.  This one needs help in all areas, but if you’ve got the time and talents, it’s located in Santa Rosa, California, and can be spotted here on eBay.  Clicking the $15,000 buy-it-now button will ensure immediate ownership, but the seller has also wisely included a make-offer option.

Superior Coach Company is one of the better-known entities that converted luxury cars into ambulances, hearses, and even limousines, and the seller reports that they turned this Cadillac into an ambulance.  It’s said to still retain many of the ambulance-specific parts throughout, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the buyer has something else in mind.  This high-top seems like a fine candidate for restoration as a hearse, and rather than a gurney, I’m envisioning the rear area eventually set up to house a casket instead on Halloween.

Though the Cadillac appears mostly complete on the outside, the seller is upfront about the extensive corrosion.  While some would think that decades-in-the-making patina might be worth preserving, the severity of rust on some panels has probably compromised their integrity, so making the necessary repairs and respraying the exterior in a fun color is probably the way to go here.

The next owner will also face restoring the interior, with the added bad news that rodents have been living inside.  The seller says it smells bad in there too, and the only attention given to this area so far is that it’s been vacuumed.  With the amount of work needed inside, it’s likely best to tear out most of the components and start from scratch, building it however you choose.

It’s no surprise that this one isn’t running, and it’s not equipped with the original engine, either.  The motor and transmission are said to have come from a 1960 donor car, and while the V8 is stated to have run three years ago when the combo was installed, that’s no longer the case.  The seller put it well by saying this one is a massive project in every sense of the word, but the cool-factor is high here, and I hope somebody with deep pockets sees fit to save this poor Caddy.  Is this 1960 Cadillac Superior Ambulance one you’d consider taking this one as a project?