Vehicle Description
Cadillac's venerable model 355 was heavily reworked for the 1934/35
model year. Starting from the ground up with an all new chassis
that featured so-called "Knee Action" independent front suspension,
the 355-D received a fresh new look thanks to totally reworked
styling. The chassis was now fully concealed beneath the curvaceous
new body and the car elegantly proportioned with a long hood and
flowing, voluptuous fenders. This was clearly in response to
Packard's gorgeous 1934 models and evidence of automobile styling
creeping ever closer to fully enveloped, streamlined bodies. In
terms of the powertrain, the 355D was essentially the same as its
predecessors, still powered by the smooth and powerful V8 engine
that now produced 130hp at 3400 rpm. 1935 marked the last year for
the long-running V8 engines that formed their roots back in 1927. A
variety of body styles by Fisher and Fleetwood meant plenty of
options for buyers and sales of the 355D were strong, with over
8,300 cars sold between 1934 and 1935. The story of this fabulous
Fleetwood-bodied Cadillac Town Sedan begins on November 12, 1934.
This fine motorcar was originally invoiced to Alvan T. Fuller's
Cadillac Automobile Company of Boston, who acted as the primary
distributor for both Packard and Cadillac automobiles. The build
sheet is annotated with "ship after 1/2/35" and "SHOW CAR"
indicating this was the actual car displayed at the 1935 Boston
Auto Show. Incidentally, Alvan Fuller went on to serve as a
congressman and eventually Governor of Massachusetts; no doubt
thanks to the many highly connected clients he earned selling both
Packards AND Cadillacs! Following the auto show, this Town Sedan is
believed to have been returned to Cadillac. It was then sold on to
its first owner in California. It remained there for the next four
decades, eventually finding its way to well-known collector Owen
Franklin Hoyt who retained it for many years. In more recent years,
it made its way to New Jersey where, after finding its most recent
keeper in 2013, it was treated to a thorough mechanical sorting
with the goal of reliable road and touring use. Originally finished
in Cathedral Grey with Vincennes Red wheels, it was repainted in
black some time ago, which suits the elegant lines of the Fleetwood
body quite well. The paintwork is older and shows some signs of age
and use, but it remains quite handsome with an honest appeal.
Recent work has included re-chroming of the exterior brightwork
which smartens up the appearance quite nicely. Aside from the
respray in black, the body is highly original and shows excellent
panel fit and alignment. Being a Town Sedan body, the cabin is free
of a passenger division, allowing for a more comfortable driving
position with little sacrifice to passenger comfort in the rear.
New carpets have been fitted as part of the refresh, however it is
believed the grey whipcord upholstery is original, as it matches
the detail on the build sheet. Upholstery condition is outstanding,
particularly when considering it is over 80 years old. The interior
chrome and polished brightwork appear to be original, displaying an
inviting and dignified patina. The instrument faces wear fabulous
art-deco markings and appear to be all original. The matching
Jaeger clock is particularly interesting and a fantastic period
touch. With the idea of making a thoroughly capable tour car, the
previous owner thoroughly vetted the running gear. New tires have
been fitted on the black wire wheels, along with a newly fitted
clutch, rebuilt brakes and a new exhaust system. Concurrently, the
engine was given a top-end overhaul, with new valves and
ancillaries such as water pump, starter, generator and carburetor
being replaced or rebuilt. It now performs with the unmistakable
solidity that comes from a car that has never been fully torn down
and restored. Thanks to the efforts of the previous owners and the
inherently wonderful-driving nature of the 355D, this rare and
elegant Fleetwood-bodied Cadillac is a competent, reliable tour car
for CCCA CARavans or any other adventures you may plan.
