Vehicle Description
In the early 1930s, Cadillac lived up to its motto, "The Standard
of the World." The breathtaking V16 stole the headlines with its
mighty 175 horsepower overhead valve sixteen-cylinder engine, and
it was joined by the equally advanced V12 shortly after. The V8
Series 355 made up the bulk of sales but was anything but
entry-level. Cadillac was locked in a fierce battle with Packard in
the hotly-contested luxury car market, and the two marques were
continually trying to one-up the next in terms of quality,
equipment, and refinement. For 1931, the new 355 went head-to-head
with the Packard Super Eight. The 355A replaced the Series 353 and
brought with clean and elegant styling. There was also a new
reinforced chassis with V-16 style engine mountings and the 353
cu.in. 90-degree L-head V8 was now rated for 95 horsepower and
mated to a 3-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh. Per standard
practice, Cadillac offered a wide selection of catalog body styles
for the 355, crafted by GM's closely held coachbuilders Fisher or
Fleetwood. Renowned for their impressive performance and effortless
ability, the Series 355 is a popular choice for touring
enthusiasts. With CCCA Full Classic status, the 355 is eligible for
a wide variety of events where its performance and style can be
appreciated. This 1931 355A features Fleetwood's handsome
convertible coupe coachwork. The subject of an older restoration,
it presents in good order in a beautiful two-tone maroon livery. It
is well-equipped with desirable accessories, including dual
Trippelight driving lamps, radiator stone guard, golf bag door, and
goddess mascot. Unusually, this car has a single rear-mounted spare
wheel instead of side-mounts, which enhances the flowing fenders
and gives it a refreshingly clean and uncluttered profile. The
paint is older but appears well maintained with a glossy,
consistent finish. The painted wire wheels wear chrome center caps
and good older Firestone wide whitewall tires. The brightwork is in
good average condition all around and consistent with the age of
the restoration. Tan leather trim is in good condition, with
moderate creasing of the seating surfaces. Door panels are trimmed
in the same leather, and appear in generally good order, as does
the matching rumble seat. A period-correct Jaeger clock and an AC
speedo are set into the original sunburst-motif instrument panel.
The tan canvas convertible top fits well and works as it should,
fitting snugly against the windscreen. Roll-up glass side windows
provide excellent all-weather protection and make this a fine
choice for touring, rain or shine. The V8 engine correctly
presented with a silver crankcase and black painted heads and plug
covers and good quality finishing and details, including
period-correct clamps and hardware. It runs and drives well, and
the chassis appears well-sorted and tidy. With its handsome and
desirable Fleetwood-built coachwork, this Cadillac 355A is a lovely
example with excellent potential to be an enjoyable and rewarding
tour car. Offers welcome and trades considered For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6711-1931-cadillac-355a-fleetwood-convertible-coupe/
