Cadillac Models & History 1959
single automotive design better characterizes the industry’s late Fifties flamboyance than the 1959 Cadillac, which incorporated totally new styling:
1959 Cadillac
- Large tailfins
- twin bullet taillamps
- two distinctive rooflines and roof pillar configurations
- new jewel-like grille patterns
- matching deck latch lid beauty panels.
The former 62 line was now commonly called the 6200 Series and was actually comprised of three sub-series all with similar wheelbases and lengths. Each will be treated individually here. The five base models were identifiable by their straight body rub moldings running from front wheel openings to back bumpers with crest medallions below the tip of the spear. A one-deck jeweled rear grille insert was seen. Standard equipment included
- power brakes
- power steering
- automatic transmission
- dual backup lamps
- windshield washers and two-speed wipers
- wheel discs
- outside rear view mirror
- vanity mirror
- oil filter
The convertible also had power windows and Two-Way power seat. Plain fender skirts covered rear wheels and sedans were available in four window (4W) and six-window (6W) configurations.
I. D. NUMBERS
- The motor serial number system adopted in 1958 was used again with numbers in the same physical locations
- The first pair of symbols changed to “59” to designate model year
- The third symbol (a letter listed as a Body Style Number suffix in charts below) identified model and series
- Consecutive unit numbers began at 000001 and up
STYLE
Model Number | Body Style | Model | Seat | Price | Weight | Production Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
59-62 | 6229K |
|
6 | $5080 | 2198 kg | 23,461 |
59-62 | 6229K | 6 Window Export Sedan | 6 | $5080 | 2198 kg | 60 |
59-62 | 6239A |
|
6 | $5080 | 2168 kg | 14,138 |
59-62 | 6237G |
|
6 | $4892 | 2132 kg | 21,947 |
59-62 | 6267F |
|
6 | $5455 | 2207 kg | 11,130 |
NOTE: The Export Sedan was shipped in CKD form to foreign countries.
ENGINE
Type | V-8 Overhead valves |
Block | Cast iron block |
Displacement | 6.384 Liters |
Bore and stroke | 101.6mm x 98.4mm |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
Brake horsepower | 325 hp @ 4800 rpm |
Power | 242 kW @ 4800 rpm |
Bearings | Five main bearings |
Valve Lifters | Hydraulic valve lifters |
Carburetor | Carter AFB four-barrel Model 2814S |
CHASSIS
Wheelbase | 3302mm |
Overall Length | 5715mm |
Tires | 8.00 x 15 |
Dual exhausts | standard |
Rear axle ratios | 2.94:1 standard; 3.21:1 optional or mandatory with air conditioning |
POWERTRAIN OPTIONS
CONVENIENCE OPTIONS
LOCAL OPTIONS
HISTORICAL NOTES
- Assembly of 142,272 units was counted for the 1959 model year.
- This was the next to last season for selling the Brougham.
- Flat-top roof styling was used on four-window sedans
- Six-window jobs had sloping rooflines with rear vent panes.
- Power steering and shock absorbers were improved this year.
- Charles E. Arnold was chief engineer