1948 Cadillac Series 75 7-Passenger Imperial Limousine
$37,500
CLICK ABOVE FOR VIDEO TOUR.
1948 marked the last year of the legendary Cadillac 346 cubic inch, 150 horsepower flathead V8 engine. Produced beginning in 1937, Cadillac produced thousands of these engines, including during WWII when they were used in U.S. Army tanks (2 engines - 1 for each set of tracks.) War service had proved the engines were literally "built like a tank" and "bulletproof."
The Series 75 with bodies by Fleetwood were Cadillac's top-of-the-line models in 1948. Featuring the finest interior appointments, they were designed with luxury and comfort in mind. The "top of the top" was the Series 75 Imperial 7-Passenger Limousine on a 136" wheelbase.
This Cadillac was purchased by the current owner in 2012 as a solid, rust-free original with original upholstery and paint. Over the next dozen years he upgraded it substantially for reliable touring, including:
• Original V8 engine fully rebuilt by a specialist who formerly worked at the legendary Hill and Vaughn restoration shop in California during the 1970's and 80's.
It was a complete rebuild of all engine components, including: new pistons, valves with hardened seats, hydraulic lifters, ceramic coated manifolds, balanced crankshaft, etc. Nothing was left undone. Including rebuilt water pumps, oil pump, generator, regulator, starter, new wiring harness, cleaned and tested radiator and gas tank, plus auxiliary electric fuel pump added. 6 volt electrical system with dual Optima batteries and 1700 cold cranking amps for confident starting power in all conditions. All lights work including headlights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals and back-up light.
• Original Hydramatic transmission was replaced by a modern GM 700R4 (4L60) four-speed automatic transmission with 30% overdrive in fourth gear.
It makes this Cadillac a truly modern car on the road.
• Brake system fully rebuilt. Wheels fitted with Coker Classic wide-whitewall radial tires. Undercarriage is clean and rust-free.
• The body was partially repainted including: hood, top, body above the beltline, trunk and rear fenders. The black paint blended nicely throughout with a deep shine. (The only areas with original paint are the front fenders and doors below the beltline, which shows well with only a few minor imperfections noted. See photos.) Original rear fender skirts were sourced (at significant expense), restored and fitted.
• Front compartment reupholstered in leather, including driver's seat and door panels (front and rear.) Carpet replaced with gray wool, with fitted front floor mat which has protected the carpet beneath it. The original, worn Di-Noc simulated burled woodgrained trim was stripped from the dashboard and garnish moldings and re-created by HydroGraphics Inc. (HGI). The finish is gorgeous. Truly like-new. All gauges were rebuilt and read accurately. (A modern oil pressure gauge was added.) Steering wheel and plastic trim is beautiful throughout, as is the chrome plated trim inside and out. Front and rear compartment clocks were rebuilt. Radio is present but unused. Front and rear under-seat heaters work. All glass is good and the hydraulic power windows have been rebuilt throughout.
• Rear compartment wears new leather door panels and new wool carpeting. The balance of the upholstery, rear seat and two jump seats are original and in excellent condition. An elegant time capsule.
• Trunk was re-carpeted. Coker radial spare tire and original jack stowed in special compartment under the trunk floor.
PLEASE SEE PHOTOS THAT WERE JUST TAKEN AND SHOW CURRENT, EXCELLENT CONDITION.
This Cadillac has proven itself on the road as a wonderful running and driving automobile. It has traveled approximately 4,000 trouble-free miles since completion of the mechanical rebuild. Most of those miles have been on long-distance tours with the Oregon Region of the Classic Car Club. (This is the last model of Cadillac recognized as a Full Classic™ by the CCCA and eligible for participation in all club tours, shows and events.) It is an ideal tour car with plenty of room for passengers and luggage as well as being able to be driven comfortably and confidently all-day at freeway speeds. All service has been regularly performed including oil and filter changes and chassis lubrication.
Ready to go now for more pleasurable touring, or as a wonderfully reliable vintage limousine for weddings, special events or other livery service use.
WE WILL HAPPILY SELL TO BUYERS WORLDWIDE AND CAN ASSIST WITH SHIPPING ANYWHERE.
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