Cadillac Cyclone

The Cadillac Cyclone sported a futuristic design and was the product of the innovative GM styling department under Harvey Earl.

It was designed for the 1959 GM Motorama.

The Cyclone was never meant for production, but as a test bed for future car design and technological ideas.

The world was on the threshold of a space age and this was reflected in the Cyclone’s “rocket ship” design. Earl drafted in veteran designer Carl Renner as the Cyclone became a reality. It was completed towards the end of 1958 prior to Earl’s retirement.

The Cyclone contained technology which as far as cars were concerned was untested and untried. The innovations included nose cones equipped with radar, an exhaust system which exited at the front of the vehicle, and the headlights above the grille could be hidden. 

Other components included an air-suspension compressor, power steering pump, generator and water pump. However, the engine was much more conventional, though new for 1959. It consisted of a 390-cid Cadillac V8.

The Cyclone had a plexiglass bubbletop and was fitted with sliding doors. At the rear of the car were two large taillights which gave the appearance of jet exhausts. 

Though it never made it the showrooms there is still an original Cyclone at the GM Heritage Centre.

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