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| Chassis No. | ||||
| 84991 | ||||
| Estimate: | ||||
| $50,000-$70,000 US | ||||
| Model 355. Est. 95 bhp, 353 cu. in. V8 engine, three-speed manual transmission, front and rear semi-elliptic leaf springs and four-wheel vacuum assisted drum brakes. Wheelbase: 134" It is perhaps ironic that one of the greatest eras of motor cars came at a time when America was going through its greatest economic hardship after the stock market crash of 1929. It could even be deemed ludicrous that during the Depression years Cadillac strategically decided to move from being a producer of mid-priced cars to a manufacturer of luxury cars with the introduction of its V16. Nevertheless, it was the V8 cars that carried the flag for Cadillac across America. For 1931, subtle styling changes increased their resemblance to the big sixteen, including hood vent doors that replaced louvers and a lovely swept coach sill. One of the more desirable and luxurious offerings was the Town Sedan. This particular example was formerly owned by noted California-based collector Art Astor, who acquired the car in the early 1980s. It benefitted from a full total restoration a few years ago, after which it was invited to participate in the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. As part of his collection, it was housed in a climate controlled building, professionally maintained and regularly exercised in sunny, dry California. The current enthusiast owner acquired the car in 2008 and has continued this program of care and maintenance ever since. The car is finished in a dark blue with an exquisitely executed and contrasting white pinstripe. Its subtle two-tone finish of dark blue body, black top, black fenders and a slightly lighter shade of blue wire wheels with period correct wide whitewall tires make it a beautiful and elegant automobile. Exterior adornments include a sun visor, Trippe safety lights, fender-mounted parking lights, a grille guard, dual side-mounted spare tires and a rear trunk rack. The restored interior is appointed with fine gray cloth upholstery and carpeting and reveals two jump seats, along with bud vases, an antique brass fire extinguisher and a clock. It is fitted with its original Packard-Bell radio, a rarity in its day, mounted on the steering column with its antenna affixed beneath the detailed chassis. A remarkable automobile, this Cadillac is ready to be driven, displayed and shown. |
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| Addendum Please note this Cadillac is not a "Town Sedan", as outlined in the description, but rather a 7-Passenger Four-Door Sedan, complete with two jump seats at the rear. |
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