Vehicle Description
For the 1934 model year, Cadillac began a dramatic shift toward
streamlined design. The first hints of streamlining appeared in
1933, as the headlights became more bullet-shaped, the grille
gained a deeper Vee and the front fenders more curvaceously
fill-figured. By the following year however, Cadillac debuted a
stunning new design theme that would guide future models through
the end of the decade. Most notable changes included new smaller
headlights with long, tapered bullet housings which were now tucked
closer to the radiator grille, which itself was dramatically canted
back with a deep-vee shape. Fenders were also completely reworked,
now more fully formed and with a beautifully curved profile. The
following model year, 1935, saw a few minor refinements to the
beautiful new design. Under that lovely new skin, more significant
changes came for 1934 and 1935. The 355D chassis was an all-new
design that featured independent "Knee Action" front suspension.
Hydraulic dampers provided a controlled ride and the frame's design
allowed for lower body height; effectively lowering the center of
gravity for improved handling. Even W.O. Bentley once complemented
the 355's exceptional ride quality, citing its remarkable composure
over the Booklands bumps at 80mph. The venerable V8 engine remained
essentially unchanged, retaining its reputation for easy, reliable
power delivery. Bodies for the 355D series of 1935 were provided by
GM's two coachbuilding subsidiaries, Fisher and Fleetwood. Fisher
bodies were fitted to the Series 10 and Series 20 (128" and 136"
respectively) while Fleetwood bodies were reserved for the 146"
wheelbase Series 30. Regardless of series and body, all 355Ds were
powered by the same V8 engine and shared the same robust running
gear. Today, Cadillacs of this era are highly prized by enthusiasts
for their excellent road manners as well as their stunning good
looks. Our featured 1935 Cadillac 355D is a 136" wheelbase Series
20 wearing one of the most dramatic of all designs from the Fisher
catalog; the four-door, five-passenger Convertible Sedan, style
number 35-671. According to build sheet data, this extremely
handsome example was ordered in April of 1935 via Capitol Cadillac
Co. of Washington, DC. The build sheet also indicates it was
originally finished in Diana Cream (20768) with cream wheel discs
fitted to brilliant green wheels and a tan top. The car was built
for the 1935 A.A.O.N.M.S. Shrine Convention (known today as The
Shriners) where it would serve as transport for the leader of the
organization - Imperial Potentate Dana S. Williams. The build sheet
indicates the car was to be lettered before delivery, and included
period press photos confirm that as they show the car displaying
the Shriner's logo and the Potentate's name, as well as showing Mr.
Williams arriving at the event, standing proudly in this very
Cadillac. Today, this fabulous Cadillac 355D presents in fine
condition, wearing a high-quality, ground up restoration that while
older, still shows extremely well. It is finished in a stunning
bright red livery with a natural tan interior, and cream colored
wheels covered in body-color discs. The rear fenders feature
painted wheel spats which are a fabulous detail - giving the car a
long, sporting appearance and calling to mind the Custom LeBaron
Packards of a year or two earlier. The body is well accessorized
with a pair of driving lamps, winged goddess mascot (as original)
and optional painted metal side-mount spare wheel covers topped
with Cadillac mirrors. This Fisher body features an integral trunk,
and a folding trunk rack is also fitted for additional carrying
capacity. The presentation is very good overall, making this car an
attractive prospect for touring or mid-level shows. The tan leather
interior remains in very good condition, with finely presented
seating surfaces and a warm, inviting appeal. Door panels and
carpets are likewise very well presented, and the interior as a
whole is lavishly appointed with fine quality chrome fittings,
textured ash trays, a robe rail for rear passengers and lovely wood
door caps. In the dash reside the restored original gauges and the
rare original Banjo steering wheel (indicated on the build sheet)
remains fitted to the car. As this is a convertible sedan, the
doors feature roll-up glass windows which seal tightly against the
full folding top for all-weather touring ability. Mechanically, the
robust 355 series V8 engine is in fine order, appearing very nicely
detailed and tidy in the engine bay. It runs well and delivers a
delightful driving experience, thanks to the well-preserved
restoration as well as the inherent qualities of the advanced 355D
chassis and drivetrain. This breathtaking Cadillac is one of just a
handful to have been delivered with this fantastic Fisher body.
With interesting early history and exquisite style, this 1935
Cadillac 355D Convertible Sedan is a wonderful choice for regular
enjoyment on CCCA CARavan Tours, or similar AACA or Cadillac
LaSalle Club events.
