Cadillacs Galore - Classic Hire Cars & a Daily-Drive DeVille: Classic Restos - Series 58
Fletch finds himself in Melbourne, where he meets Tony from Cadillac Style Car Hire. Tony proudly shows off three stunning Cadillacs from his '60s-style car hire business, which caters to weddings, Elvis cruises, and special night-out transfers. Tony's passion for the era is evident, not just in the vintage vehicles but also in his enthusiastic approach to the business. His fleet is pure Cadillac class, with each model meticulously maintained to an exceptional standard to meet the demands of the hire business.
Each Cadillac in Tony's collection showcases its unique styling. The first is a '55 Cadillac, featuring a robust 331 cubic inch V8 engine and weighing in at an impressive 2.5 tonnes of heavy metal. Tony explains that Cadillacs from the 1960s were more than just cars; they were symbols of style, grace, and individuality.
The second gem in the lineup is a '59 Cadillac, known for its lower profile and characteristic rocket-era fins and taillights. This model is sleek and lean, with a wider track. This model polarised purists who either love it or hate it. Tony proudly identifies with the former, as the '59 Cadillac has always been his dream car. The vehicle was converted to right-hand drive in 1988, a requirement for registration in Australia at that time.
Completing the trio is a '60 Cadillac Convertible, which features a trimmed-down design from its predecessors, with tail fins reduced by four inches and an open grille, yet still powered by a formidable 390 V8 engine.
Together, these classics form a collection adored by fans of American iron and Elvis fans alike.
Milan & Katrina’s Cadillac Love Story
Milan immigrated to Australia from Slovakia in 2003 with little more than ambition and a vision for a brighter future. Shortly after his arrival, he crossed paths with Katrina, and the two have now been happily married for 23 years, with three children.
Milan originally wanted to live in America, fuelled by his deep-seated love for classic American cars. A passion that never waned; in 2016, he fulfilled a long-held dream by purchasing a 1966 Cadillac Coupe DeVille equipped with a powerful 429 cubic-inch V8 engine (325 HP). Originating from Los Angeles, California, the Cadillac was delivered to Milan in remarkably solid condition, free of rust.
Fletch notes that this Cadillac model saw 163,000 units produced, with 130,000 being DeVilles and only 50,000 Coupes. Over the years, Milan dedicated significant time and effort to transforming the Coupe into a reliable daily driver. His enhancements included an engine refresh, a new carburettor, a rebuilt radiator, upgraded suspension and exhaust, and improvements to the heating system, making it the perfect "turn-key" cruiser. Today, the Cadillac serves not only for weekend cruises but also handles school runs and shopping trips with ease.
The entire family has embraced the car, affectionately referring to it as their 'third' child. Katrina shares in Milan's enthusiasm, emphasising that the Cadillac is not solely Milan's pride and joy but rather a cherished family vehicle; it's "our car," as she lovingly puts it.