The first Cadillac Coupe de Ville was one of a trio of General Motors hardtop convertibles introduced in late 1949 — the Buick Roadmaster Riviera and Oldsmobile 98 Holiday being the others. Just 2,150 of the gorgeous ’49s were produced, all powered by Cadillac’s brand-new overhead-valve V-8. The 1950 Coupe de Ville featured a bulbous body design that was continued through 1953. During this period, the Coupe de Ville was a premium Series 62 model — its hardtop styling also appeared on less richly trimmed standard Series 62s and Series 61 "Club Coupes" from 1950-’51. Power steering, dual exhausts and an improved dual-range Hydra-Matic appeared in 1952. Optional air conditioning and chrome wire wheels followed in 1953. Harley Earl's GM stylists brought 1950s modernism to Cadillac for 1954. Long, sleek bodies and a wrap-around panoramic windshield added to the good looks. Cadillac V-8 horsepower increased from 160 in 1949 to 230 in ’54. Early ’50s Cadillacs were — and are — fast, rugged and surprisingly economical to operate. Restoration can be expensive, but numerous well-kept originals still exist.