The Very 1st Car of the Year: ’49 Cadillac
Cadillac wanted to make a big splash in 1949. They probably wanted to splash earlier but WWII got in the way. They actually started designing this new engine before Pearl Harbor. And it was worth the wait. The new engine weighed 200 pounds less, had more horsepower and a lower profile. The perfect power plant for a exciting new design. And they were exciting and beautiful cars with a proper powerful engine. In fact, Briggs Cunningham ran a few Caddies at LeMans finishing a respectable 10 and 11th place. 
A new magazine named Motor Trend debuted the same year and they had the sense to begin a Car of the Year award selecting the Caddie for the honor. Now this featured listing is just spectacular. It has enjoyed a complete cosmetic and mechanical restoration and looks great. The wire wheels and wide whites are stunning. Although they are big cars, they handle a wee bit better than they look. They do require a little muscle to get it around but that is typical of large cars of the period. The seller has a fine reputation and manages to find some really impressive cars. Hagerty has a #1 value at $44,500 and a #2 at $33,600. Check out the eBay listing by clicking here.
is this car for sale or trade? very interested, thank you…. Bob
Is this car for sale or trade ? Very interested, any info please email me, Thank you Bob– (Buffalobs@aol.com )
I originally posted this on my site from an eBay listing back in 2013. I am sorry to say that it probably found a home soon after. Mint is a dead end but I do hope you keep looking for it. Looks like a wonderful example!
The fast back caddie even holds up well today. What a beautiful car that segues what America stood for after WWII. Big, boldly brash and beautiful !!
Just love the years from 1941 to 1949 had both with a 1948
Very pretty car and the first year of the Cadillac overhead valve V8!