1931 Cadillac 355A Convertible Coupe

An impressive array of body styles was offered on the Series 355A V-8 chassis. General Motors' coachbuilding subsidiaries, Fisher and Fleetwood together offered no less than twelve individual styles to suit all buyers' needs and budgets. This example, Fleetwood's highly sought-after style #4535 2/4-Passenger Convertible Coupe, originally priced at $2,945, offers both style and practicality, providing the luxury of driving in all weather conditions, in closed comfort or fully open. The body follows the same lines as Cadillacs V-12 and V-16 offerings, a testament to its design and timeless appeal.

Mechanically, the car now featured covered rear springs mounted below the frame rails for a cleaner look. The radiator being repositioned lower within the chassis and the introduction of a condenser tank improved cooling efficiency. Cadillac's "HC" high-compression V-8 engine was further refined, now featuring a new intake silencer and five-point engine mounts for improved ride quality and performance while retaining the 353-cubic-inch displacement and 95-horsepower output. Power was delivered to the rear wheels through a three-speed synchromesh transmission offered with options for various rear axle ratios.

Once part of the Don and Lynette Short Collection, this car has received drivability and reliability improvements, having been fitted with a Cadillac carburetor switched to a downdraft-type, retaining the ability to revert to its original configuration for show purposes. Finished in cream with black fenders, chassis and moulding, the car's paint scheme is complemented by a tan convertible roof featuring polished landau bars. It rides on natural wood spoke artillery wheels with whitewall tires and a rear-mounted spare tire further enhances the car's elongated silhouette.

Inside, rich red leather upholstery contrasts the exterior and extends to the rumble seat. The dashboard features Cadillac's revised oval instrument cluster, accented with wood-trim and gauges finished in black within. Interior durability was also improved with the introduction of metal floorboards.

Revered for their design and driving excellence, Cadillac's Series 355A V-8 Convertible Coupes remain sought-after by classic car enthusiasts and collectors. This example represents an opportunity to own a piece of automotive history encapsulating an era when luxury, style and performance converged to offer the pinnacle of transportation and maintain Cadillac's reputation as "The Standard of the World."