57 CDV Fender Badges

[cappy102]

After seeing countless photos of 1957 Coupe De Villes, I can't help but notice that some have the "Coupe De Ville" script on the front fenders, while others have the "Cadillac" logo. A small point, maybe, but I'm the curious type.

My 57CDV has the "Coupe De Ville" logo. Does anyone know if these two logos were used to designate a sub model, a different time of manufacture during the model year, or if they were just randomly installed at the factory?

After thoroughly searching this forum, using any badge-related keywords I could think of, I found no posts.

Someone out there knows the answer, I'm sure.

Thanks!

[Roger Zimmermann]

The "Cadillac" script is for the base models. A de Ville is an upgrade with better inside trim (leather instead of vinyl).

[cappy102]

Thanks, Roger!

Yes, my car has leather...which brings me to another point (for another post)...the trim number lists the leather as medium blue, but it is definitely medium metallic blue. Still researching this one at present.

My 57 also has the Autronic eye and radio with rear speaker.

I'm just starting this project, so I really appreciate your info.

Mark

[m-mman]

More info - The base model was the "series 62"  the full name would be "Series 62 coupe" or "Series 62 sedan".

The De Ville was an upgrade model that offered some items as standard equipment (power windows) where in the Series 62 power windows would be optional. Same with trim the fabrics were different between the two versions and (without checking my books) I think leather trim (bolsters) was used in the DeVilles and vinyl (bolsters) was in the Series 62. With leather versions optional.

Buy a Series 62 and add all the (typical Cadillac) options that would be standard on the DeVille and the price become almost equal. There were some features at did not come in a Series 62 that did appear on a DeVille such as fold down arm rests. 

Interesting the convertible was considered a Series 62 but had power windows and leather as standard equipment so it really was more like the DeVille series. I have supposed that GM did not want to used the "DeVille" moniker on a topless car, perhaps because beginning in 1949 the word DeVille meant metal roof. . . . ?

It can be very confusing as the list of standard and optional features changes between the years and as described by casual observers today, every 2 door is called a Coupe De Ville and every 4 door is a Sedan de Ville. However as your expertise about Cadillacs grows,  you too will be able to spot the differences.

[cappy102]

Thanks for the additional information!

So far, I'm billing this project as a re-furb. So much of the car is in great shape, and I'm not ready for pulling the engine/trans, etc.

Finding vendors is helped by the excellent list in the 'Modified Cadillac' section on this forum.