stars with that of today's celebrities, who insist on being driven in cars with windows so darkly tinted the passengers are invisible to everyone outside.

The wheel covers are the new-for-1949 Cadillac sombrero style that became a hit with the custom and hot rod car scene in later years. They are a simple and elegant decoration for the wheels.

The interior is a visual feast of natural colors and beautiful materials, rendered with the panache for which GM was known. The wraparound effect of the dashboard into the front doors is especially appealing --an achievement today's designers still strive for in contemporary cars.

A stunning automobile manufactured by a legendary carmaker at the top of its game, customized by a deservedly renowned coachbuilder and carrying world-class actors who worked for a first-class studio... The Schwartz Cadillac is a fine testament to the era from which it came.

It seems natural, even comforting, to picture a young Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn riding in the backseat of this wonderful car on their way to filming Adam's Rib as they were chauffeured to silver screen immortality. Some cars just spark the imagination that way.

Larry L. Tebo is an aficionado of antique and classic automobiles and a classic cinema buff. He is often found in the Car Lounge discussing automotive history or politics.