Cadillac Series 62 (3rd generation)
The birth of the tailfin: Cadillac's post-war masterpiece that defined American luxury styling.
- Power
- 150 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.0 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $22k–$85k
About the Cadillac Series 62
The 1948 Series 62 marked a pivotal moment in automotive history as the first all-new post-war Cadillac design. It famously introduced the 'tailfin', a styling cue inspired by the Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter plane that would dominate American car design for over a decade. While it retained the reliable 346 cubic inch 'flathead' V8 for one final year before the overhead-valve revolution, the 1948 model sat on a new, lower chassis that provided a more modern silhouette. Collectors prize the 1948 for its unique position as the only year combining the landmark first-generation fins with the smooth, traditional L-head engine. It remains a quintessential example of Harley Earl's influence on the golden age of General Motors design.
Cadillac Series 62 specs
The Cadillac Series 62 produces 150 bhp (112 kW) and 384 Nm (283 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.0 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Cadillac |
|---|---|
| Model | Series 62 |
| Generation | Third Generation (3rd generation) |
| Trim | 5.7 V8 |
| Years | 1948–1953 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 34,213 built |
| Original price | About $2,900 when new |
| Engine | 5.7-litre L-head V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,670 cc (5.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 150 bhp (112 kW) at 3,400 rpm |
| Torque | 384 Nm (283 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 16.0 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,950 kg (4,299 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 77 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Cadillac Series 62 worth?
A typical Cadillac Series 62 is estimated to be worth $22,000 – $85,000 (about £16,000 – £63,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,900.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Cadillac Series 62 rarity in CarSpot
The Cadillac Series 62 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 49 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Cadillac Series 62 fun facts
- The 1948 Cadillac's tailfins were inspired by the twin-boom tails of the Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter aircraft.
- 1948 was the final year for the 346 cubic inch L-head V8, an engine that had powered Cadillac cars and even M5 Stuart tanks during WWII.
- The fuel filler cap is cleverly hidden beneath the hinged left-hand tail light, a signature Cadillac design detail for years to follow.