Vehicle Description
As the world slid into economic depression after the stock-market
crash of October 1929, most of America's many automobile
manufacturers maintained an optimistic outlook on their future
prospects. Of them all, luxury-market Cadillac was especially
well-positioned to meet the challenging new economic times as the
1930s unfolded, given the vast financial resources commanded by
General Motors, its giant corporate parent. However, with its
renowned engineering prowess and the stylistic genius of Harley
Earl's Art and Colour Section, Cadillac was more than able to
prosper on its many merits. In fact, with the wide reach of its
updated V8 models, supplemented by the arrival of the V16 in 1930
and two V12 model lines by 1931, Cadillac caught archrivals Lincoln
and Packard off guard and embarked on a methodical, long-term plan
to dominate America's luxury-car market. At the core of Cadillac's
three-pronged model strategy, the updated Series 355-A V8 models
featured updated styling for 1931 with a lower and longer chassis
with a generous 134-inch wheelbase. Hoods were longer and now
fitted with five side vents. Coach sills were modified with battery
and tool compartments relocated under the front seat. Other choice
updates for the 1931 Cadillacs included metal floorboards, an oval
instrument panel motif, a radiator screen, a new single-bar bumper
design, and dual horns. Headlight diameter was now reduced by one
inch. Underneath, the 1931 Cadillac models rode atop new chassis
frames with rear springs now mounted directly below the frame rails
and fitted with metal covers for a clean appearance. Up front,
radiators were repositioned lower within the chassis and a
condenser tank was added. Cadillac's highly regarded V8 engine
retained its 353 cubic-inch displacement and standard 95-horsepower
factory rating for 1931, with a new intake silencer and 5-point
engine mounts adding further refinement. As before, power was
delivered by Cadillac's refined driveline, including a synchromesh
3-speed manual transmission and several available rear-axle ratios.
General Motors' coachbuilding subsidiaries Fisher and Fleetwood
supplied a wide array of open and closed body styles ranging from
sporty to formal for Cadillac's updated Series 355-A V8 chassis for
1931. Eight bodies were available from Fisher and from Fleetwood, a
focused selection of four was available. Among Fleetwood's most
sporting bodies was the dashing and versatile Style 4535
2/4-Passenger Convertible Coupe, priced from $2,945 on the Series
355-A V8 chassis. Exuding a pure 'Jazz Age' presence, this 1931
Cadillac Series 355-A V8 Convertible Coupe is a CCCA Full Classic�
automobile that continues to benefit handsomely from an older
restoration that garnered National First Prize honors in Classic
Car Club of America judging, evidenced by Badge 2976 duly affixed
to the vehicle. Supremely well maintained through the years, it is
resplendent in silver with black fenders, complemented by a black
convertible top equipped with a glass backlight and formal landau
irons. The lovely and highly inviting light gray leather-trimmed
passenger compartment is accented by wood grain dash trim and door
capping, engine-turned dash inserts, and a wonderful Art
Deco-themed instrument panel. The paint, chrome, and overall
presentation are all simply excellent. In addition to the jaunty
rumble seat for two and golf bag door, this Fleetwood-bodied
Cadillac is very well accessorized with chrome depressed-beam
headlamps, Trippe Safety Lights, a chrome radiator-grille guard,
"Goddess" radiator mascot, twin side-mounted spares mounting chrome
mirrors, and a rear luggage rack. The 353 cubic-inch V8 engine,
surrounding engine compartment, and chassis are all very
well-finished and detailed, consistent with the rest of the
vehicle. Desirable and correct 'HC' high-compression (5.5:1)
cylinder heads heighten performance and presence. Silver wire-spoke
wheels mounting period style wide whitewall tires provide an ideal
finishing touch. With their many stylistic and mechanical
refinements, Cadillac's Series 355-A V8 models of 1931 are widely
regarded as outstanding driver's cars, and they remain a popular
choice among classic touring enthusiasts. Sharp in presentation and
highly appealing with its open body style, this very fine example
will surely turn heads on enjoyable CCCA CARavan� tours and shows
alike, and it will certainly serve as a favorite within virtually
any collection of prewar greats with its abundant style and
mechanical sophistication. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7435-1931-cadillac-355a-convertible-coupe/
