Vehicle Description
The 1940 Cadillac Series 62 marked an interesting transition for
Cadillac. On one hand, it was the first year for this new model,
the entry level of the Cadillac range that replaced the Series 60.
It was also a car that represented an early form of "platform
sharing" among General Motors products, as it shared its basic
configuration with the Buick Roadmaster and Oldsmobile Series 90
among others. Exclusively for Cadillac, the body was given a
wide-shoulder design that eliminated the need for large exterior
running boards and lent the car a striking and modern appearance.
On the other side of the coin, the 1940 models marked the end of
the traditional classic era styling once and for all. The tall
upright center grille was still flanked by separately mounted
headlamps and "waterfall" grilles in the front wings. It was no
doubt a handsome car, but the follow year saw the introduction of
the new front end design with integrated headlamps and a low, wide
grille. In effect, the 1941 models overshadowed the 1940 cars, but
when looking back, the 1940 Cadillac Series 62 can be seen as the
ultimate expression of the Art Deco and Classic Eras, a beautiful
machine with fabulously detailed and streamlined front end design
that was both imposing and elegant. Mechanically, the Series 62
utilized the proven and powerful 346 cubic inch Monoblock, L-head
V8 engine. Customers could choose between a synchronized 3-speed
manual or 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic gearbox. With 135
horsepower on tap, the performance was quite strong and these cars
have always been appreciated for their fine road manners and
handling. Customers loved the new Series 62, as it delivered
Cadillac's traditional quality and style in an attainable package.
As a result, sales skyrocketed for both 1940 and 1941, though
Series 62 production was cut short in 1942 to concentrate on the
war effort. This 1940 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible is an
attractive and usable example of this sought-after pre-war
Cadillac. We are very pleased to offer this car on behalf of the
CCCA Educational Foundation, to which 100% of proceeds from the
sale will benefit. This is a sound and solid car, presented in an
attractive color combination of cream over red wheels and a red
interior. Paintwork is shiny and sound, and while there are some
imperfections to be found, it is generally rather good looking with
nice paint on straight, solid panels. It sits proudly on proper
steel wheels with original-type hub caps and wide whitewall tires.
The chrome is generally fair with straight bumpers and good
exterior trim, though there is some significant pitting on the
die-cast grille that would benefit from restoration. The spacious
interior is in good condition, trimmed in red and gray upholstery
on the seats and door panels, with very good red carpeting.
Interior fittings and controls all appear in good condition, with
attractive, largely original chrome as well as original
instruments, switchgear and a lovely ivory Bakelite steering wheel.
This car is equipped with a 3-speed manual transmission, heater and
radio. The convertible top, trimmed in tan canvas, is in good
condition and complements the paintwork well. Cadillac's 346
Monoblock V8 is tidy and clean in the engine bay, and while it
isn't fully detailed, it is clean and well-presented. It runs and
drives quite well, delivering the easy-going road manners these
cars are so well known for. This is a car that appears to have
never been fully restored, instead getting restoration work done as
needed over the years. As a result, it retains an appealing patina,
runs and drives quite well and would make for a very nice tour car.
It is also a CCCA-approved Full Classic so it is eligible for
CARavan Tours and other similar events. This is a great example of
a late pre-war Cadillac for an enthusiast seeking a car to drive
and enjoy on a regular basis. An added bonus is that every dollar
of the purchase price will benefit the CCCA Education Foundation,
which works to continually promote our hobby for years to come.
