1949 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe de Ville

The new V8 was a landmark achievement, as it was quieter, more powerful and lighter than even the new Oldsmobile engine that was introduced at the same time

It is abundantly clear that The Motor found much to commend in the Series 62 Cadillac when testing Briggs Cunningham’s personal car early in 1950: “The Cadillac is a vehicle manifestly intended to cover long distances at a high cruising speed whilst demanding the absolute minimum of effort from the driver and imposing the smallest of possible distraction upon the passengers.”

Indeed, a Cunningham-entered Cadillac Coupe de Ville finished 10th at Le Mans that year, driven by the Collier brothers—in lounge suits. Although the body style had made its debut the preceding year, featuring GM styling chief Harley Earl’s Lockheed P-38 inspired tailfins, the 1949 Cadillacs are nonetheless landmark models, being the first to benefit from the company’s new 5.4-litre, overhead-valve V8. A maximum output of 160 hp meant that 100 mph was within reach of most models, with comfortable cruising between 80 and 90.

This pristine example was sold new in Switzerland...