Vehicle Description
Rising from the ashes of the defunct Henry Ford Company, Henry M.
Leland's Cadillac Automobile Company quickly established itself as
a leader in innovation, mechanical sophistication and luxurious
quality. That spirit continued under the auspices of General Motors
after its acquisition in 1909, for it was Cadillac that brought
consumers the first electric starter, the first electric lamps, the
first installation of safety glass, the first synchromesh
transmission, the first dual-plane crankshaft V8 and even the first
V16 engine. From their earlies models, Cadillac's exceptional build
quality and elegant style put them proudly at the pinnacle of
General Motors where they remain to this day as one of America's
oldest continuously operating car companies. Cadillac was enjoying
great success as they rolled into the 1930s. A wise decision to
include the lower-priced LaSalle sub-brand kept the company afloat
even as the economy faltered. They entered the decade with a heady
confidence that spawned the incredible V16 and V12 models. But
Cadillac's mainstay for the 1930s was the 355 series; an 8-cylinder
model manufactured between 1931 and 1935. Gradual evolution of the
series led to the 355D and 355E of '34 and '35 respectively were
the final models of the range, and both were largely similar in
terms of style and mechanical spec. The 355E Model was divided into
three series based on wheelbase, the Series 10, 20 and 30. Bodies
were supplied by Fisher and Fleetwood and featured new styling with
a v-shaped radiator grille that was canted back, a raked windscreen
and detailing heavily influenced by the streamlining era. GM's
"Knee Action" independent front suspension was introduced in 1934,
and the 353 cubic inch L-head V8 engine produced 130 horsepower in
later models. Between 1934 and 1935, just 8,318 355s were produced.
We are offering this 1935 Cadillac 355E Series 10 Coupe on behalf
of the Classic Car Club of America Education Foundation, with one
hundred percent of the proceeds going to benefit this worthwhile
cause. This Series 10 rides on a 128" wheelbase and is fitted with
a stylish Rumble Seat Coupe body by Fisher. It is presented with a
good, older restoration, finished in tan, accented with apple green
wheels and whitewall tires. The paintwork does show numerous
imperfections but remains fairly attractive overall, and is
presentable as a driver-quality car. The Fisher-designed body is
quite sporty and features a pair of Trippe lights up front, a
rumble seat and a rear-mounted spare wheel with body-colored metal
cover. The body is in good condition, with good panel fit and nice
quality chrome plating on the lamps, bumpers and trim. The interior
is trimmed in tan broadcloth which does show some small tears, but
remains serviceable for regular use. Brown carpets are in good
condition, as is the brown vinyl upholstery on the rumble seat.
Door panels, headlining and topping are good, as is the cockpit
chrome trim and switchgear. The twin-cowl dash is very attractive,
with bright metal inserts facing the driver and passenger and
lovely cream-faced instruments. Aside from the few obvious flaws,
the interior is generally quite sound and usable as is. Likewise,
the engine bay is in good driver-quality condition, with correct
major components, while fittings and hardware appear in good
condition. It runs and drives quite well, the V8 producing 130
horsepower, sending power through a 3-speed synchronized
transmission. Cadillacs of this era are lovely and enjoyable to
drive, with excellent ride and handling from the independent front
suspension and smooth power from the seemingly bulletproof L-head
V8. This Cadillac Series 10 would make an excellent choice for
touring and casual enjoyment on the road. This is a stylish and
rare Cadillac that can be enjoyed as is, or restored to a higher
level as desired. Hyman Ltd. is very pleased to assist the CCCA
Educational Foundation, and all proceeds from the sale of this car
go to benefit a very worthy cause that serves to educate and
indoctrinate young people to the joys of our beloved hobby.
