From inspiration to reality – this custom 1947 Cadillac is ready to cruise the Pacific Highway in style
Siblings compete with each other. From sports to academics, from tests of strengths to who has the coolest car, it just happens naturally. For Nick Dias, that meant growing up in a car-culture family. “My older brothers were into lowriders, customs, muscle cars, choppers,” Nick says. “It was always a friendly competition to build the best we could.”
A few years ago, Nick had his “hold my wrench” moment when he saw an older Cadillac at a car show. “It inspired me to build my latest creation,” he says. “My goal was to build something classic, elegant, unique.”
The result is “El Capitan,” a stunning blue 1947 Cadillac convertible. Nick collaborated with a team of craftsmen to create a piece of automotive sculpture that shines on the show floor and would look right at home cruising Pacific Coast Highway.
The Cadillac is based on a custom chassis built by Steve Wilk and Adam Weber that features a Mustang II-style front suspension, a triangulated four-link rear suspension locating a 9-inch rearend with 3.08 gears, and air springs both front and rear. Wilwood disc brakes bring the car to a stop and are fitted behind Wheelsmith steel wheels wrapped in Diamondback Classic wide whitewalls.
Power comes from an LS1 V8 that produces 365 horsepower with the help of a FiTech fuel injection system and RPM stainless headers sending fumes through a custom exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers. The valve covers and the accessory drive system are from Wegner, while a Lokar shifter controls the 4L60E automatic transmission. A custom firewall, inner fenders, and radiator cover help accentuate the well-detailed engine.
The channeled 1947 Cadillac body and other modifications were performed by Steve Wilk of Wilkworx and the team at Sylvester’s Customs. The convertible top was chopped, the car was nosed and decked, and door handles were removed. When all the sheet metal was smooth and tight, the crew at Sylvester’s Customs laid down the vivid custom blue finish.
The custom interior with Glide seats and a full-length console features the work of Ron Mangus Interiors, which crafted the white leather upholstery and installed the blue carpet. The dash incorporates custom Dakota Digital gauges and hidden stereo system components and air-conditioning outlets. A stock Cadillac steering wheel sits on a Flaming River tilt column. Vintage Air supplied the A/C components, while a Ron Francis Wiring kit connects the electrical systems. A custom hard boot cover protects the convertible top when it’s retracted.
The finishing touch? Nick says that was bringing the finished car home, showing the results to his family, and being able to cruise and enjoy his 1947 Cadillac convertible.
Photos: Mike Christensen
