Description
I`m almost lost for words. This is one serious motor car. Comprehensively restored in the US around 10 years ago and the subject of much recent fettling since, this amazing Series 61 sedan has style, presence and personality by the bucket-load. And it drives just as good as it looks turning more heads than anything else I`ve sat in for years. Perfect for shows, weddings or just a Sunday afternoon jaunt, this is much more than a car, more a way of life! Come and see for yourself.
From 1939, the Series 61 formed part of Cadillac`s mainstream product range and was essentially aimed at the owner who wanted to drive in contrast to the larger Series cars which were predominantly chauffeur driven. But there was no compromise on luxury with equipment and quality still regarded as being the very best on offer. Early cars from 1939 adopted a slightly futuristic Torpedo appearance with protruding central grille and functional side grilles although this was all to change from 1941 with the advent of a much more modern approach. A single piece bonnet and rectangular grille with built-in parking lights and proper wings with inset headlights and lower fog-lights massively updated the frontal appearance. Available as either a Club Coupe, Convertible or Sedan, all models came equipped with the same Monobloc 346cui V8 developing 150BHP from 1941 onwards and the choice of either a 3-speed manual gearbox or Hydramatic automatic transmission.
Our car was imported privately into the UK in 2018 from Florida having been the subject of considerable restoration some years prior. Whilst sadly there is little known of it`s life in the US, we do know from the Title that it was acquired in June 1990 by Harold and Olive Bird with 54, 000 miles recorded. We understand that it was used and enjoyed sparingly ultimately coming off the road around 10 years ago for what was to become a full body, trim and interior restoration. Although this isn`t documented, the quality and extent of the refurbishment speaks for itself. In 2019, it was purchased by a gentleman collector on the Dorset coast who subsequently has spent the last 3 years fettling and improving the car making sensible upgrades where appropriate to enable easy-starting and safe travelling. Only loss of storage has pushed him to sell albeit with great reluctance. Today, the Cadillac is showing just 58, 790 miles.
The car presents exactly as in the photographs. The Fisher coachwork is quite superb and has been finished off with a combination of new chrome and original white-metal detailing and a distinctive Silver over Red paint scheme. The overall effect is totally stunning albeit there are some micro-blisters evident under the paintwork on some of the panels. The entire cabin has been retrimmed in pale grey cloth velvet with matching door-cards and contrasting dark red carpets. All trim including the painted dash has been restored and refitted. It really feels a special place to be. Turn the key and on pushing the starter, the V8 fires almost immediately into life assisted by a secondary priming pump when required. The Cadillac sounds smooth and responsive and out on the open road, encourages confidence quickly with equally smooth and precise gear changes from the column shift manual gearbox and excellent road manners. On a sunny weekday morning, I hustled the car through the narrowest of South Dorset lanes and not once did I feel awkward. Yes, it is a big car at 20ft. in length but it commands huge respect from other road users and is surprisingly easy to drive.
The Cadillac comes with its original Florida title together with importation and UK registration paperwork as well as a current UK Registration Document. In addition, 2 Workshop Manuals are included, one with many handwritten notes and an original Cadillac Handbook. The car is naturally both MoT and rad tax exempt.
An amazing car in all respects.
Shore Classics is based on the West Dorset coast within easy proximity of both Weymouth and the County town of Dorchester. As classic and vintage dealers, we offer full brokerage facilities. So if you require some help and guidance with selling your classic car or motorcycle, just give us a call today.
