1939 Cadillac Series 75 Convertible Coupe
Coachwork by Fleetwood
Motor No. 3290731
Body No. 9
140 bhp, 346 cu. in. side-valve V-8 engine, three-speed manual transmission, front and rear leaf spring suspension, and four-wheel vacuum-assisted drum brakes. Wheelbase: 141 in.
The Series 75 was Cadillac’s largest, costliest, and most exclusive V-8 model of 1939, sharing its imposing 141-inch-wheelbase chassis and handsome semi-custom Fleetwood bodies with the grand V-16s, but featuring the renowned flathead eight-cylinder engine under the hood. Some of the Series 75s were extremely rare automobiles, with only 27 convertible coupes completed in 1939; they were a scarce sight even when new.
The example offered here was originally delivered through the Claude Nolan dealership in Jacksonville, Florida, equipped with chrome disc wheel covers, as noted on a copy of the original build sheet. It was formerly in the care of David D. Swanson of Iowa from 1969 until 1997, then was acquired by a Mr. Bennet, in whose care the engine was rebuilt with the cylinders bored .030 over, new pistons fitted, the lower end rebuilt, and new timing chain, lifters, and valve guides installed. As part of this work, the starter and generator were also rebuilt, the brake system sorted, and high-speed rear axle gears mounted, enabling some 2,000 miles of comfortable touring in Mr. Bennet’s ownership.
In 2009 the Cadillac was bought by a collector in California, who had it cosmetically refinished in the present Antoinette Blue livery and saw much of the chrome replated. Well-known enthusiast Bill Miller of Frankfort, Indiana, then purchased the Series 75 in 2013, and after undertaking even more improvements saw it judged at a perfect 100 points and achieve its CCCA Senior badge in 2014.
Well-preserved in the current ownership, the car has recently been freshened and is still in excellent, striking overall condition, with a wonderful air of power and conservative elegance about it. It would be still worthy of any show field, including a return to CCCA competition, but would also be an excellent, durable and smooth-running Cadillac to enjoy on any number of tours and CARavans in the months to come.
