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With the mechanicals in order, the Slim's staff could address the gargantuan body. They first excised rust by replacing the rocker panels and floors, then shaved the door handles, filled body seams, and recessed an antenna for a smoother appearance. Al Bergler made the custom panels to dress up the engine compartment. Slim's Dan Armstrong painted the wide sheetmetal expanses using a PPG Candy Tangerine tri-coat finish over a silver base. Tom feels the color really shows off the car's lines, particularly when the sun is beaming down on it. The restored original chrome and stainless serves to accentuate the brilliant finish.

C.H. Schultz & Sons Upholstery in Flint, Michigan, tended to the cavernous cabin in this more-door machine. The crew cleaned up the stock dashboard, wrapped it in leather, and fitted Westach auxiliary instruments in the original housings. Then the modified original bench seat was fitted with seat warmers (for those chilly Michigan mornings) before all interior soft parts were covered with crème- and saddle-colored Caprone leather. Embroidered Cadillac emblems add a special touch to each seat.

Topping off the interior comforts are a Vintage Air heat and cooling system, cruise control, and an Alpine stereo with XM satellite capabilities pushing sounds through power amps and a subwoofer. The Budnik wheel matches those on the outside. M&R Electronics in Saginaw, Michigan, redid all the wiring.

Tom says the car's appearance blends themes from several eras: custom candy paint from the '50s; a hot rod attitude with nose-down stance, braided stainless lines, throaty exhaust, and performance-style wheels; plus modern technology in the drivetrain. He believes they combine well, resulting in a ride that is subtle, not gaudy, and classic with hot rod flair.

As for Jan, she's thrilled by the Caddy's huge trunk, because she now has something to pack. It's her car, and she can take along whatever she desires-in style!