Series 61 Cadillac History 1950

Series 61 Cadillac Models & History 1950

Cadillacshad extensive styling changes this year. They looked generally heavier and had low, sleek contours with longer rear decks, more sweeping front fenders and a broken rear fender line. The hood protruded further out at the front and was underlined by an even more massive egg crate grille. Round parking lights were used, but as in the past, when buyers chose fog lamps an additional bulb and larger housing were used. This setup combined the fog lamps and directional signals. One-piece windshields were introduced and the leading edge of the rear fenders, which had a broken-off look, was highlighted by chrome imitation air slots. The rear fenders were longer and ended in a swooping tailfin design. A Cadillac script again appeared on the sides of front fenders, but was now positioned closer to the front door opening gap.

As far as Series 61 models went, a big styling change was a return to marketing this line on a shorter wheelbase than used on the 62s. This led to some styling differences. For example, the Series 61 sedan had no rear ventipanes and featured a wraparound backlight (i.e., rear window). An identifying feature on both models was the absence of rocker panel moldings and rear quarter panel chrome underscores. Cars in Cadillac’s lowest-priced range also had bodies which were 100mm shorter than the previous season.

I. D. NUMBERS

  • Cadillac serial numbers again matched motor numbers and were used for all license, insurance and identification purposes.
  • They were located on a boss on the right-hand face of the engine block and on the right frame side member behind the motor support.
  • Motor serial numbers 506100000 to 5061103853 appeared on 1950 Series 61 models.

STYLE

Model Number Body Style Doors Model Seat Price Weight Production Total
50-61 6169 4-door Sedan 5 $2866 1737 kg 14,619
50-61 6137 2-door Club Coupe 5 $2761 1740 kg 11,839
50-61 6169 Export Sedan 5 $2866 1737 kg 312
50-61 Chassis only 2

NOTE: The sedan for export was shipped in a CKD form to foreign countries.

ENGINE

Type V-8: Overhead valves.
Block Cast iron block.
Displacement 5.425 Liter
Bore and stroke 96.8mm x 92.1mm
Compression ratio 7.50:1.
Brake horsepower 160 hp @ 3800 rpm
Power 119 kW @ 3800 rpm
Bearings Five main bearings.
Valve lifters Hydraulic valve lifters.
Carburetor Carter WCD two-barrel Model 742S.

CHASSIS

Model Wheelbase Overall length Front Tread Rear Tread Tires
Series 61 3099mm 5382mm 1499mm 1600mm 8.00 x 15

POWER TRAIN OPTIONS

Hydra-Matic drive $174

CONVENIENCE OPTIONS

  • Power windows (on specific models).
  • Heating and ventilating system.
  • Radio and antenna.
  • Chrome wheel discs (Sombrero)
  • Windshield washers.
  • Fog lamps.
  • White sidewall tires