Cadillac introduced its new hardtop style with a prototype first displayed at the NY Waldorf Astoria in January 1949. Based on a 1948 convertible, the prototype Coupe de Ville was stretched to fit the Fleetwood Sixty Special 133-inch wheelbase chassis. Other differences from the production model offered for sale in June 1949 included front wheel opening trim, rocker trim under just the door, small rear window instead of the wraparound window, simulated vent on the rear fender