This custom 1948 Cadillac Series 63 Saoutchik Cabriolet is one of two cars bodied by Jaques Sauotchik of Paris, France. Sauotchik was known for designs, taking many risks with sweeping shapes and copious amounts of chrome.
The genius of Sauotchik’s design on such a large chassis demonstrated his ability to minimize the overall scale of the car by concealing the size of the wheels as well as using painted lines to reduce the height of the cowl.
The early owners of this car included Paul Kassoff and Louis Ritter. Mr. Ritter was the founder of Ritter Brothers Furriers of New York. He was known for his extravagant wealth, flamboyant lifestyle and eccentric taste.
Overview
Model: Cadillac Series 63 Saoutchik Cabriolet
Production Year: 1948
Manufacturer: Cadillac (General Motors) and Jacques Saoutchik (Coachbuilder)
Historical Context
- Post-War Era: The late 1940s was a period of renewed prosperity and innovation in the automotive industry. Luxury cars symbolized the optimism and opulence of the post-war era.
- Cadillac’s Reputation: Cadillac was well-regarded for producing high-quality, luxurious automobiles. The collaboration with Saoutchik brought an additional level of exclusivity and artistry to their vehicles.
Specifications
Engine:
- Type: V8 engine
- Displacement: 5.7 liters (346 cubic inches)
- Power Output: Approximately 150 horsepower
- Configuration: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Transmission:
- Type: 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission
Chassis and Body:
- Chassis: Standard Cadillac Series 63 chassis
- Body: Custom coachbuilt cabriolet body by Saoutchik, featuring unique design elements and luxurious materials
Suspension:
- Front: Independent coil spring
- Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs
Brakes:
- Type: Drum brakes all around
Design
Exterior:
- Styling: The Saoutchik Cabriolet is characterized by its sleek, elegant lines and distinctive French styling. Features include a long hood, a low-slung body, and intricate chrome detailing.
- Bodywork: The handcrafted aluminum body by Saoutchik included unique touches such as sweeping fenders, a one-off grille design, and elegant, flowing lines that differentiated it from standard Cadillacs.
- Color Scheme: Often finished in bespoke color combinations chosen by the owner, adding to its unique appeal.
Interior:
- Luxury: The interior of the Saoutchik Cabriolet was appointed with the finest materials, including rich leather upholstery, exotic wood trim, and custom fittings.
- Design: The dashboard and instrument panel were designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with an emphasis on comfort and style.
Legacy and Collectibility
- Rarity: The Cadillac Series 63 Saoutchik Cabriolet is extremely rare, with only a few units ever produced. This rarity makes it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
- Auction Value: Due to its unique design, historical significance, and limited production, the Saoutchik Cabriolet commands high prices at classic car auctions, often reaching into the millions of dollars.
- Historical Significance: The car is a symbol of the collaboration between American automotive engineering and European coachbuilding artistry, representing a blend of cultures and design philosophies.
Notable Features
- Coachbuilt Luxury: The involvement of Jacques Saoutchik, a master coachbuilder known for his extravagant and luxurious designs, elevated the Cadillac Series 63 to a new level of exclusivity and craftsmanship.
- Artistic Design: Saoutchik’s influence is evident in the car’s flowing lines, bespoke features, and meticulous attention to detail, making each car a unique work of art.
- Performance: While primarily a luxury vehicle, the powerful V8 engine provided strong performance, ensuring the car was as capable on the road as it was beautiful to look at.
You may purchase a print of the 1948 Cadillac Series 63 Saoutchik Cabriolet in our dElegance 2011 online gallery.