Series 62 Cadillac Models & History 1963
Inoverall terms, 1963 Cadillacs were essentially the same as the previous models. Exterior changes imparted a bolder and longer look. Hoods and deck lids were redesigned. The front fenders projected 118mm farther forward than in 1962, while the tailfins were trimmed down somewhat to provide a lower profile. Body side sculpturing was entirely eliminated. The slightly V-shaped radiator grille was taller and now incorporated outer extensions that swept below the flush-to-fender dual headlamps. Smaller, circular front parking lights were mounted in these extensions. A total of 143 options—including bucket seats; wool, leather or nylon upholstery fabrics and wood veneer facings on dash, doors and seat backs—set an all-time record for interior appointment choices. Standard equipment for cars in the 62 Series (6200 models) included power brakes; power steering; automatic transmission: dual backup lamps; windshield washers; dual speed wipers; wheel discs; remote control outside rear view mirrors; lefthand vanity mirror; oil filter; five tubeless black tires; heater; defroster and cornering lights. Convertibles were equipped with additional features, also used on all 6300 models.
I. D. NUMBERS
- Motor serial numbers took the same form used in 1962
- the first pair of symbols changed to “63” to indicate 1963 model year
- the next symbol was a letter to indicate the model as listed below
- the next six numbers indicated the consecutive unit number beginning with 000001
- The serial number was located at the front of the lefthand frame side bar
- Motor serial numbers again matched and were found on the center lefthand side of the block above the oil pan
- The alphabetical body identification code “C” was no longer used, since the short-deck Town Sedan was dropped from the 62 Series
- However, the short-deck 6300 model, called the Sedan DeVille Park Avenue, was retained and used the same “D” body identification symbol
- Rooflines on two-door hardtops were restyled, which brought a change in body style coding, but not in the alphabetical suffix
STYLE
Model No. | Style No. | Body Type | Seat | Factory Price | Shipping Weight | Production Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
62-63K | 6229K | 6 | $5214 | 2095 kg | 12,929 | |
63-62G | 6257G | 6 | $5026 | 2048 kg | 16,786 | |
63-62N | 6239N | 6 | $5214 | 2089 kg | 16,980 | |
63-62F | 6267F | 6 | $5590 | 2065 kg | 17,600 | |
63-62 | 6200 | Chassis only | 3 |
NOTE: All 6200 Series sedans are pillarless four-door hardtops.
ENGINE
Type | V-8 |
Valves | Overhead valves |
Block | Cast iron block |
Displacement | 6.384 Liters |
Bore and stroke | 101.6mm x 98.4mm |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
Horsepower | 325 hp @ 4800 rpm |
Power | 242 kW @ 4800 rpm |
Bearings | Five main bearings |
Valve Lifters | Hydraulic valve lifters |
Carburetion | Rochester four-barrel model 710930 |
NOTE:
- Although neither engine displacement or output changed, the 1963 Cadillac V-8 was completely redesigned.
- Quieter, smoother and more efficient, the new motor was 25mm lower, 100mm narrower and 32mm shorter than the 1962 V-8.
- It was also some 37 kg lighter, due to the use of aluminum accessory drives.
CHASSIS
Feature | Park Ave. | Series 62 | Series 6300 Deville |
---|---|---|---|
Wheelbase | 3289mm | 3289mm | 3289mm |
Overall Length | 5461mm | 5664mm | 5664mm |
Tires | 8.00 x 15 | ||
Rear axle ratio | 2.94:1 |