With LaSalle gone for 1941, Cadillac became a one-make, one-engine division of General Motors. For the first time since 1926, all Cadillac products used the same engine, a 346-cu. in. L-head V-8 producing 150 hp and semi-floating rear axle and four-wheel hydraulic brakes. Cars came equipped with a three-speed synchro-mesh manual transmission, though the Oldsmobile Hydra-Matic transmission (introduced in 1940) was offered as an option. Air conditioning was also offered for the first time.

It is thought by some that aesthetically, 1941 was the highpoint in Cadillac styling. Visually the car is a masterpiece of subtle, flowing curves that began with a new-for-1941 bold and distinctive eggcrate grille. In addition, this was to become Cadillac’s last convertible sedan. Harley Earl was particularly smitten with the ’41 model; he had one customized for his personal use. The artisans at Fleetwood and Fisher created the convertible sedan with modified C-type sedan sheet metal.

The upper portion of the rear doors were shortened by seven inches; the rear quarters (above the dogleg) were extended seven inches; the rear quarters were buttressed with flat-bar steel to accommodate and support the top assembly; and the B- and C-pillars were supported by brawny steel braces. Beefed up B-pillars allowed for the elimination of suicide rear doors. Frames were substantially strengthened, and windshields were three inches lower. Essentially, the convertible sedan was a semi-custom car. In the end, this was the rarest of Cadillac models for 1941 with just 400 produced for the model year.

Cadillac build records show that this car was shipped on 19 May 1941 to S&C Truck. It was equipped with the optional heater and Hydra-Matic transmission. Finished in Dove Grey with a black canvas top with red piping, red leather interior and matching carpets, fender skirts, and red rims fitted with period-appropriate wide whitewall tires, it makes quite a fashion statement. Inside one will find a clock and radio. The original build sheet and the original owner’s booklet titled “Operating Hints for the 1941 Cadillac” are included in the sale. The 1941 Cadillacs are the darling of the CCC, and this car will provide the basis for an excellent tour vehicle eligible for all CARavans and Club events.