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LOT 134

1939 Cadillac Series 75 Convertible Coupe Coachwork by Fleetwood Chassis no. 3290731

Estimate: US$100,000 - US$130,000Lot to be sold without reserve
Lot 134

2014 100 Point CCCA Senior First Prize Winner
1939 Cadillac Series 75 Convertible Coupe

1939 Cadillac Series 75 Convertible Coupe
Coachwork by Fleetwood

Chassis no. 3290731

346ci Flathead V8 Engine
Single Carburetor
140bhp at 4,200rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Front and Rear Leaf Spring Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*One of only 27 produced
*One of very few known survivors
*Roadster for high-speed touring
*CCCA Senior Prize Winner
*Known ownership history since new



THE SERIES 75 CADILLAC

Cadillac introduced the Series 75 in 1936 as its top-of-the-line V-8 model, a step above the Series 60 line. Initially offered with both Fisher and Fleetwood bodies, by 1938 only bodies from the high-end Fleetwood could be had. Nonetheless, the selection was vast with no less than a dozen different all-steel body styles offered in 1939 from formal and upright limousines to two and four door open cars.

Rebounding from a downturn in the 1938 economy, 1939 was a good year for the "Caddy". Sales were rising and as if in reply to the spirited upswing, GM cars, Cadillac included, tended to sport pointed frontends. All 1939 V-8 models displayed fine-pitch grille bars. Styling was becoming more modern, with the truck neatly integrated into the body but major changes were still a few years off. No matter what the body style, a generous 141-inch wheelbase provided ample space for people and luggage.

Powered by a steadfastly smooth 140bhp, 346 cubic inch monobloc V-8, the luxurious yet sporty Caddy benefited from steering column mounted selective synchro manual shifting. In 1939, only 2069 Series 75s of all types left the factory.


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This beautiful 1939 Cadillac Series 75 Fleetwood Convertible Coupe was sold new through Claude Nolan Cadillac in Jacksonville, Florida on December, 14 1938. The sale price was $2605.85.

The Cadillac had been in the collection of a Mr. Swanson of Iowa from 1969 until 1997 when the Caddy was sold to a Mr. Bennet. Under Mr. Bennet's care the Cadillac received an engine rebuild during which time the cylinders were bored .030 over and new pistons fitted while the whole lower end was rebuilt. New timing chain, lifters, and valve guides were also all fitted. Both the starter and generator were rebuilt and the brake system was renewed. Mr. Bennet also had the car fitted with high-speed rear end gears to improve its touring performance. During his ownership Mr. Bennet logged approximately 2000 miles.

In 2009 the car changed hands to a Mr. Richardson in California. Under his ownership the car and chassis were repainted and much of the chrome renewed. Additionally, the leather interior was redone and a new top and carpets were installed. At this time the running board rubbers were changed and new tires and wheel covers were fitted.

In 2013, Bill Miller of Indiana acquired the car and more work was performed to bring it to the highest standard. In 2014 the Cadillac was awarded First Prize at the Summer Grand Classic, receiving its CCCA Senior award badge and scoring a remarkable 100 points. The present owner acquired the Cadillac in June of 2016, keeping it carefully garaged and maintained but sparingly driven. Receipts on file for over $7,000 worth of mechanical service over the last three years reflect that attention paid to the car, with records showing service to the brakes, cooling system, and more.

This stunning and extremely rare Cadillac's is a great example of Cadillacs styling prowess in the late 1930s. Having received a 100-point score by the CCCA there is little more to say about this spectacular machine.

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Additional information

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  • 29 September 2022, 09:00 - 18:00 EDT
  • 30 September 2022, 09:00 - 16:00 EDT

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