The 1955 Cadillac Coupe DeVille is a classic representation of American luxury and style in the 1950s. As a part of Cadillac's celebrated Series 62 lineup, the Coupe DeVille offered unmatched elegance, advanced technology, and powerful performance, embodying the post-war American dream on wheels.

Background

• Manufacturer: Cadillac (General Motors)
• Production Year: 1955
• Model: Coupe DeVille (part of the Series 62 lineup)
• Significance: By 1955, the Coupe DeVille had established itself as a symbol of sophistication and success, blending cutting-edge engineering with iconic design.

Specifications

• Engine:
  • Type: 5.4-liter (331 cubic inches) V8.
  • Output: 250 horsepower at 4,600 rpm.
  • Features: Overhead valve (OHV) design with a 4-barrel carburetor, delivering smooth and reliable power.
• Transmission: Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission, a hallmark of Cadillac's focus on effortless driving.
• Chassis:
  • Body-on-frame construction with robust build quality.
  • Wheelbase: 129 inches.
  • Overall Length: 223.2 inches.
• Suspension:
  • Independent front suspension with coil springs.
  • Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
• Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels.

Design and Features

• Exterior:
  • A bold, elegant design with smooth curves and dramatic styling cues.
  • Iconic egg-crate grille flanked by prominent chrome bumpers and bullet-style bumper guards.
  • Sweeping roofline with a distinctive two-door hardtop design (pillarless).
  • "Dagmar" bumper guards and rear tailfins that extended further compared to earlier models, hinting at the dramatic fins of later Cadillacs.
  • Luxurious chrome and stainless-steel trim, accentuating the car's premium status.
  • Wide range of vibrant two-tone color combinations with matching interiors.
• Interior:
  • Plush, spacious seating for six, with high-quality materials such as leather, broadcloth, and metallic thread accents.
  • Comprehensive dashboard featuring a horizontal speedometer and chrome-accented controls.
  • Power windows and optional power seats, reflecting Cadillac's emphasis on luxury and innovation.
• Unique Features:
  • Standard heater and defroster.
  • Optional air conditioning, still a rarity in 1955.
  • Power steering and power brakes for effortless handling and safety.

Performance

• Top Speed: Approximately 110 mph.
• Acceleration: 0–60 mph in around 12 seconds, respectable for its size and era.
• Driving Dynamics:
  • Renowned for its smooth ride, thanks to Cadillac's advanced suspension tuning and power-assisted steering.
  • Whisper-quiet interior, showcasing Cadillac's dedication to comfort.

Innovations

• The 1955 Coupe DeVille featured Cadillac’s high-compression V8, setting benchmarks for performance and efficiency in luxury cars.
• Hydra-Matic transmission offered seamless shifting, a notable improvement in automatic transmission technology.

Legacy

• Popularity: The Coupe DeVille became one of Cadillac's best-sellers, symbolizing status and wealth in 1950s America.
• Collector Value: Highly sought after today for its timeless design, engineering excellence, and cultural significance.
• Cultural Impact: Often featured in movies and pop culture as a representation of 1950s luxury and Americana.

Summary

The 1955 Cadillac Coupe DeVille is a masterpiece of mid-century automotive design and engineering. Combining bold styling, advanced technology, and a luxurious interior, it stands as one of Cadillac’s most iconic models, epitomizing the glamour and prosperity of 1950s America.

Taken at the Hilton Head Concours

You may purchase a print of the 1955 Cadillac Coupe Deville in our dElegance 2024 online gallery.

The Vintage Automobile Article Index