Inspired by the twin tail fins of the WWII fighter P-38 Lightning, the head of design at Cadillac, Harley Earl, decided to transfer the loom to the brand’s cars. The year was 1948 and the fins soon became a hallmark for Cadillac.
The size, however, was relatively modest until 1957, when Chrysler decided to attack Cadillac with its own design weapon - the fins.
The reactions was ”this means war” and Cadillac hit back with what was to be the peak of the tail fin war: the Eldorado of 1959 with its extremely high fins and twin rear lights that imitated the flames coming out of a jet engine. This on a car that already was extraordinary with its 2,3 tons and 5,7 meters. Many parking garages refused to accept 1959 Cadillacs because of their size.
And of course, all the other American brands joined the fin race - the bigger the better.
Ingvar Sandahl, founder of one of Sweden’s biggest logistic companies, was one of many that was fascinated by the cars of ´59. He decided to get one of each full-size model from General Motors’ 1959 line up. He succeeded and placed them in the family’s private museum together with a large selection of other exciting classic cars.
The museum is now being phased out and the unique collection av GM’s 1959 models is being sold through Bilweb Auctions. They have in common that they’ve spend quite some time in the museum and therefore will need some maintenance before being driven regularly.
These are the auction cars:
Cadillac Eldorado Seville - the queen of the ´59:s. A California car that was restored in Sweden in the mid-1990s and won a number of prestigious show prizes. A museum car since 1999 and still in an excellent condition - and ready for the road again. One of only 975 coupes built in 1959.
Estimated value: 1,1 - 1,3 million SEK.
Chevrolet Impala 4-door hardtop - started its life in Los Angeles, imported to Sweden in 2009. Very elegant in its black paint and red interior.
Estimated value: 400 - 450 000 SEK.
Buick Electra 225 - the most expensive Buick this year. A totally rust free Arizona car that has been restored to a pristine condition.
Estimated value: 330 - 380 000 SEK.
Oldsmobile Super 98 - an impressive 2-door coupe that has been equipped with a Continental kit.
Estimated value: 320 - 370 000 SEK.
Pontiac Bonneville - the crown jewel in the 1959 Pontiac line up. This car stands really stands out with its close to perfect condition. Wonderful interior, no rust whatsoever and great chrome details.
Estimated value: 320 - 370 000 SEK.
