The Baker Collection

[Bruce Nunnally]

<img src="http://postandcourier.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/img/photos/2010/05/07/Tommy_Bakers_car_museum_t600.jpg?4326734cdb8e39baa3579048ef63ad7b451e7676">

Except at a ritzy car show or a high-end auction, mint condition showpieces rarely appear for general viewing.

So it’s intriguing to see a candy-apple red 1954 Cadillac convertible, ’67 Jaguar E-Type, and ’53, ’70 and ’71 Mercedes-Benzes together at Baker Motor Co.

They are owned by Tommy Baker, the dealership’s chairman. Among his fleet of classic models, the five editions are being brought out for a brief time and can be purchased at prices from $85,000 to $170,000.

“These are a collection of his antique cars,” said Jake Miller, sales manager at Baker Motor. “They are for sale. Now, they are out for display.”

Also in the showroom are two other Baker purchases — a red Mercedes convertible that he drives around from time to time, and a vintage green Texaco diesel fuel pump with accompanying air gauge.

Read More: http://www.postandcourier.com/news/2010/may/08/tbakrclssc/

• 1954 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible. Noted for its Hydra-matic automatic transmission, V-8 engine and massive 129-inch wheelbase, the Cadillac weighed close to 4,600 pounds and churned out 230 hp. For 1954, the edition got a more powerful engine, sleeker body, egg-crate grille and “inverted gull-wing front bumper with pronounced Dagmar bullet fairings,” according to Baker Motor. Automatic windshield washers and power steering were standard. It cost $4,404 in 1954. This restored model is finished with a red leather interior and white vinyl convertible top. Gadgets include power-operated windows, Wonderbar radio and automatic headlight dimmer. It is being offered for $85,000.

[Texas Jim]

That Convertible is beautiful.

Wish I could afford it.