Louie Mattar, a man driven by vision, transformed a classic 1947 Cadillac Car into an extraordinary machine that defied conventions. His dream materialized soon after acquiring this vintage Cadillac, setting the stage for an unparalleled feat of endurance. In 1952, Mattar, accompanied by two fellow adventurers, etched their names into automotive history by establishing a remarkable cross-country record. They piloted the meticulously customized Cadillac from San Diego to New York and back again, without a single stop. This incredible journey spanned 6,320 miles and necessitated mid-journey refueling from a moving gas truck on three separate occasions, showcasing the ultimate in non-stop driving.
Throughout their record-setting expeditions, Louie Mattar and his co-drivers ensured they lacked none of the comforts of home, ingeniously integrating them within the limited confines of their Cadillac car. The rear seating area was transformed into a mobile living space, housing an electric stove for cooking, a refrigerator to keep provisions fresh, a washing machine for laundry, a chemical toilet for sanitation, an ironing board for crisp attire, a medicine cabinet for health needs, and even a kitchen sink. Remarkably, each of these appliances was designed to be neatly stowed beneath the back seat cushions when not in use, maximizing space efficiency within the Cadillac car.
The front cabin of this unique Cadillac car was equally impressive, a testament to Mattar’s innovative spirit. Beyond the standard array of switches and gauges on the dashboard, it featured a nationwide mobile telephone, a then-cutting-edge communication tool, a tape recorder for entertainment or documentation, a built-in bar for refreshments, and a public address system complete with speakers mounted on both the trailer and the hood of the car, ensuring audibility both inside and outside the vehicle. Adding an unexpected touch was a Turkish water pipe, while a shower was ingeniously installed on the right running board for hygiene on the go, and a drinking fountain was integrated into the rear taillight assembly for readily accessible hydration.
To support such extended journeys, the Cadillac car was engineered for self-sufficiency. It boasted a 50-gallon water tank, supplemented by an additional 30-gallon reserve in the accompanying trailer. The trailer itself was a powerhouse, carrying 230 gallons of gasoline and 15 gallons of oil, alongside a dedicated dining area at its rear. The car featured automated systems, including automatic radiator refilling and oil changes. Even the axles were modified with drilled passages to allow tire inflation while the vehicle was in motion. Hydraulic jacks were incorporated to enable wheel changes while driving, a process achievable from a movable platform attachable to the car. For maintenance and adjustments on the fly, clear panels were integrated into the hood, permitting driving even with the hood open, revealing the stock 1947 Cadillac engine underneath all the groundbreaking modifications.
Louie Mattar dedicated five years and a substantial $75,000 investment to transform his 1947 Cadillac car into this extraordinary reality. However, for Louie, the Cadillac car transcended monetary value. He eloquently stated, “If I sold that car and had all the money in the bank, I wouldn’t meet the important people I do. That’s worth all the money in the world.” This sentiment encapsulates the true worth of his creation – an embodiment of ingenuity, perseverance, and the pursuit of a dream, all centered around a remarkable Cadillac car.
