Cadillac made major advances in styling for 1941. For the first time, headlights were fully integrated into the front fenders and a horizontal-theme grille stretched from side to side. The hood was made front-opening for the first time, and the gas tank filler was hidden in the left-rear taillight, a feature that became a Cadillac hallmark. The sturdy and reliable 346-cubic inch V-8, introduced in 1946, was newly uprated to 150 brake horsepower.

LaSalle, Cadillac’s lower-cost companion car that had launched in 1927, had run its course by 1940. General Motors management decided to integrate it into the Cadillac product line, so a Series 61 LaSalle successor was introduced, using GM’s fastback coupe and sedan B-bodies. At $1,345 to $1,535, the Series 61 was less than $100 cheaper than the C-body 62 and just as popular, more so in the attractive fastback coupe body style. With nearly 12,000 delivered, the Series 61 Five-Passenger Coupe was the best selling model in the entire 1941 line.

This example was shipped on March 14, 1941, to Northwest Motor Company in Seattle, Washington, and was equipped with Accessory Group A, which was comprised of the Special steering wheel, license plate frames, and wheel trim rings. Other equipment found on the car includes a radio, fresh-air heater-defroster, dashboard clock, chrome exhaust extension, door-mounted exterior mirrors, and rear fender skirts.

It has been restored in the original Valcour Maroon metallic paint and tan ribbed-cord upholstery. The door panels are older, perhaps original, while the matching floor carpets are new. The dashboard and window trim woodgrain has been expertly refinished, and the optional plastic Special steering wheel, often a problem area on 1940s cars, is pristine and spotless. Paint, panel fit, and brightwork are all very strong and complement the fastback styling. The engine compartment is clean and well detailed, showing only minor blemishes. The odometer reading, barely 48,000 miles, implies modest and careful use. Wide whitewall B.F. Goodrich tires complete the package. The car is offered with a restoration file of receipts, including receipts for a complete engine rebuild in 2005, as well as manuals.

This car, nicely suited to tours and long casual drives, is bound to draw admiration from onlookers, while also providing its driver and passengers with Cadillac’s characteristic blend of comfort and smooth yet impressive performance.