No, not every classic Caddy is an Eldorado or a de Ville! It seems many online folks think those were the only two models available in the 1950s, but there was so much more. Our Pick of the Day was one of the more prestigious Cadillacs, and has a strong lineage as such. This 1956 Cadillac Fleetwood Sixty Special is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Phoenix.
When you look at Cadillac’s pre-war portfolio, you’ll see all models were part of a series designated by numbers. For example, the 1938 Cadillac model line included the Series Sixty, Series Sixty-Five, Series Seventy-Five, and Series Ninety, the last of which was powered by a V16 instead of a V8. Each series was defined by wheelbase as well, with the Series 75 and 90 sharing the same 141.25-inch length.
In the case of the Series Sixty, it was Cadillac’s entry-level model for some years, though the Sixty Special was an upscale variation that initially was created to play the role of a LaSalle Sport Sedan. However, when it was introduced in 1938, the Sixty Special appeared as a Cadillac. The Series Sixty Special was different from all other Cadillacs, thanks to slim pillars, tasteful touches, and no running boards, making other cars look old-fashioned.
Cadillac changed the direction of the Fleetwood Sixty Special starting in 1942 (having used the Fleetwood name since 1940), as it became a premium four-door with a limousine-length wheelbase and more ornamentation than lesser Cadillacs, especially decorative chrome louvers on the C-pillars or rear fenders. Think of it as the model that sat in between mainstream Cadillacs and the more prestigious, limousine-inspired Fleetwood Series 75 models.
For 1956, all Cadillacs featured louvers, though the Fleetwood Sixty Special used more chrome on the rear flanks. This would become a hallmark of the model through 1959, upon which Cadillac reverted to decorative chrome louvers and tasteful lower-body chrome. The Sixty Special gradually lost visual distinction in the ensuing years, though it continued to play the role of being the top four-door among mainstream models through 1976.
This Cobalt Blue 1956 Cadillac Fleetwood Sixty Special is said to be an older restoration with a claimed 21,000 miles. Note the chromed rear-fender spears that were exclusive to this model. The exterior is complemented by optional gold trim, including the anodized grille. “The chrome and stainless-steel trim are beautifully polished and largely show quality with normal imperfections from use,” says the seller. “The exterior is in overall very good condition and needs nothing to be enjoyed!” Inside, you’ll find dark blue brocade with gray broadcloth and blue piping. Options include air conditioning (both front and rear), the Autronic-Eye, a Pre-Selector radio, and power-adjustable front seats, among others.
“Overall, this Cadillac is in very good condition and would be a great car to use as a classic driver,” says the seller. This is peak 1950s style at a price that’s not so peak: $35,000. That’s what it takes to own the higher standard of the Standard of the World.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
