1957 Cadillac 60 Special
Cadillac’s 60 Special was always a more luxurious version of their standard four-door sedans, slotted between Cad’s cheapest series and the high-end Fleetwood. It really was a “special” model that started in 1938, designed by future GM Design head Bill Mitchell to resemble a convertible sedan. With the passenger compartment shifted forward on the chassis, the proportions helped to define what a contemporary car would become. Because the whole car was lower due to the new 127-inch wheelbase X-frame chassis the running boards were eliminated and the top had less crown for a leaner, more modern look. The styling was groundbreaking and would translate to other GM products over the next few years. Other hallmarks of the 60 Special was it usually rode on a longer chassis than other Cadillac models, with the exception of the limousines; and it was always a four-door sedan, except in the late-1950s when all Cadillac four-doors were hardtops. As the line progressed, it displayed unique trim to distinguish it on the outside from lesser Cad models, usually featuring a series of small chrome louvers or special lined stainless cladding in the rear quarters. It also featured a more luxurious interior and appointments, including a lighted tables for rear passengers in the 1950s.
1957 60 Special
Breaking from 60 Special tradition the new C-bodies available came as four-door hardtops. Power brakes and power windows were standard equipment, and air conditioning units were moved from the trunks to under the dash. The 365ci engine was bumped up to 300hp. 60 Specials received the ribbed cladding on the rear quarter panels. The Eldorado Brougham was introduced this year, and retailed for over twice the cost of a 60 Special.
AVAILABLE MODELS:
1957
- Body Style
- 60S-Series Four-Door Sedan
1957 Cadillac VIN Decoder:
First Two Characters: Year
Third and Fourth Characters: Series
- 60 ~ Series 60 Special Fleetwood
Fifth-Ninth Characters: Production Sequence
- Sequence starts with 0000
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