Cadillac Series 60 Special, Luxury Abounds

When looking at old pictures from this decade, most if not all of Hollywood rode in a Cadillac. Movie stars, politicians, in general anyone who was in the public eye was seen in a Cadillac. Cadillac has always set the bench mark for luxury and sophistication, so it was a natural choice for the young up and commers. Even the successful in business set the status quo and purchased a Cadillac to show that they had "made it".

The mid to late fifties saw the emergence of the Cadillac Series 60 line. Hard tops, convertibles, and even a station wagon was available under the Series 60 and 62 line up. Continiung to elvolve over the years, the line up got better and more luxurious over time. Innovation abounded from the 331 cubic inch overhead valve V-8 engine to nifty little features never seen before on an automobile. Imagine this scenerio from 1952, back when there used to be a type of business named a full service station. With this type of business an attendant pumped your gas, checked your oil, and aired up a low tire. After a thourough cleaning of your windshield, you simply drove off after paying for your service and gasoline. The 1952 Cadillac had a secret waiting for the gas attendant at the local station. After scratching his and looking at the Cadillac for many minutes you have to tell him that the gas cap is hidded under the left tail light assembly. Imagine the fun with that one.

Presidents chaose the Cadillac Series 60 for outings for it's reliabilty, comfort, and status. Does anyone remember the famous photo of Dwight D. Eisenhower at the inagural parade after his election in 1953? If alive, you have surely seen it. A convertable, the new President is shown standing behind the driver waving at his public. My, how the times have changed.

The Cadillac Series 60 line is still alive today, and some fine examples are for sale at specialty dealers. With an additin of this car to your collection, you cannot go wrong.

The Fabulous Hudson Hornet

How can we visit the 1950's and not mention The Fabulous Hudson Hornet? What makes this car so special that even a recent movie featured it? If not fimiliar with this piece of American history, the reasons are surprising. In all, three Hornets were used in the newly formed NASCAR series. The car literally dominated the events for three years.

What powered this auto that all the others chased? The answer will knock your socks off. A six cylinder engine, tuned for makimum output was under the hood. This high revving powerplant coupled with a low center of gravity was like a rail car on tracks. You don't have to have the biggest, most powerful engine to be the fastest competitor. Handling will make up for the rest. Piloted by legendary drivers Marshall Teague and Herb Thomas, the little Hornet won the largest portions of races from 1951 to 1954. Makes you wonder what the other drivers were thinking knowing there was only a straight six under the hood.

The car resurfaced recently with a leading role in a major motion picture production. Doc Hudson was the wise older doctor and judge who through the film slowly reveals himself as the original Fabulous Hudson Hornet. Humility is learned form the hot shot Corvette, Lighting McQueen, and all is well in the town of Radiator Springs at the end of the movie.

A NASCAR record that stands to this day, and a major role in a film. Who does'nt just love this car?