LOT 612
1931 Cadillac 355-A Convertible Coupe Coachwork by Fleetwood Chassis no. 804429
Estimate: US$70,000 - US$95,000
Lot 612
1931 Cadillac 355-A Convertible Coupe Chassis no. 804429
1931 Cadillac 355-A Convertible Coupe
Coachwork by Fleetwood
Chassis no. 804429
Coachwork by Fleetwood
Chassis no. 804429
Cadillac first introduced its ground breaking V8 in 1915. Designated the Series 51, the new model set the tone for the direction of the industry. This powerful and surprisingly smooth engine was a huge leap forward over the more primitive designs of the previous decades. The V8 was so good in fact that it remained relatively unchanged in the lineup until 1928, an amazing run for an industry that was changing rapidly. When the motor was finally altered for ‘28 the changes were subtle. The engine capacity was increased to 341ci up from 314ci, and the new Cadillacs received the styling that would define their early classic period penned by Harley Earl. He imbued it with much of the European influenced flair he displayed with the LaSalle brand, and each subsequent year Earl’s subtle design changes would make the cars more refined and striking. For 1931 the V8 displacement was up to 355ci and the design received its finest upgrades yet. The hood was lengthened and received five hood-doors and one in the cowl. The whole body was lowered slightly and the splash aprons were modernized. Dual chrome horns now accompanied the headlights up front and on the inside the dashboard received the attractive oval instrument cluster. The peak of the classic era had arrived, the cars had never looked better.
This 1931 355-A V8 with convertible coupe coachwork by Fleetwood is an excellent example. The convertible body is very attractive and nearly identical to that offered on the V-16 chassis, its new longer and lower hood enhanced the subtle flowing lines of the body. The hood doors go a long way to making this car look like the high quality car it is. The interior is equally nice with the prominent instrument cluster and handsome black-faced gauges. Fine leather upholstery work is a rich red hue and in very good shape; likewise, the handsome landau ironed top is in good order. The engine compartment is tidy and shows a few concessions for touring reliability, such as the Cadillac carburetor which has been switched for a downdraft type. This should enhance drivability and prove simple to switch back for show purposes. The chrome on the car is good and accents all the jewelry that Cadillac adorned its cars with in 1931.
Though somewhat overshadowed by its iconic big brother this Cadillac can hold its own in the looks category. The 355-A Convertible is a distinctive machine for a fraction of the cost of its 16-cylinder sibling. This would make a great tour or show car, with a fresh looking restoration and the model’s excellent reputation for drivability. As with most of the cars in the collection they have had limited use in the last few years and a bit of maintenance should be expected prior to extensive use.
This 1931 355-A V8 with convertible coupe coachwork by Fleetwood is an excellent example. The convertible body is very attractive and nearly identical to that offered on the V-16 chassis, its new longer and lower hood enhanced the subtle flowing lines of the body. The hood doors go a long way to making this car look like the high quality car it is. The interior is equally nice with the prominent instrument cluster and handsome black-faced gauges. Fine leather upholstery work is a rich red hue and in very good shape; likewise, the handsome landau ironed top is in good order. The engine compartment is tidy and shows a few concessions for touring reliability, such as the Cadillac carburetor which has been switched for a downdraft type. This should enhance drivability and prove simple to switch back for show purposes. The chrome on the car is good and accents all the jewelry that Cadillac adorned its cars with in 1931.
Though somewhat overshadowed by its iconic big brother this Cadillac can hold its own in the looks category. The 355-A Convertible is a distinctive machine for a fraction of the cost of its 16-cylinder sibling. This would make a great tour or show car, with a fresh looking restoration and the model’s excellent reputation for drivability. As with most of the cars in the collection they have had limited use in the last few years and a bit of maintenance should be expected prior to extensive use.
Saleroom notices
This lot is titled under 804429, which is the engine number not the chassis number.
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