The Cadillac Series 60 Special marked a new direction for both the “Standard of the World” and General Motors design. It was the first car completely styled for GM by William Mitchell, the gifted protégé and eventual successor of the redoubtable Harley Earl. Mitchell made his impression early with the first “owner-driver” Cadillac, a car for the gentleman or lady of means who preferred not to use a chauffeur. Accordingly, it rode on a 127-inch wheelbase chassis, somewhat smaller than other Cadillacs, but it was large enough to be appropriately cushy. The body boasted well-proportioned lines, hidden running boards, squared-off modern “pontoon fenders,” and a roofline that seemed to plunge between the windows. In total, the Series 60 Special looked fantastic and like modern art compared to the other luxury cars being built at the time.

The first Series 60 Specials of 1938 were bodied by Fleetwood. The 1939 and 1940 models, which used essentially the same design with updated front-end sheet metal and headlights, were built to the Fleetwood design by Fisher Body, and they were no less elegant and well appointed.

The 1940 model offered here has been part of Mr. and Mrs. Kughn’s prominent collection for several years. While an engine number is not readily discernible on the car, it is believed to be powered by its original engine, number 6322448, of which the original unit number, 6E 2512, is still present on the block. A copy of the original build sheet is on file, indicating that the Series 60 Special was delivered through the Don Lee Cadillac Company, of Oakland, California, with disc wheel covers, a grille guard, and dual side-mounted spares, all correct and desirable options that it retains along with a sun visor and dual driving lights.

Well restored before the Kughns’ acquisition, the Cadillac has been well maintained since by their private shop and is still in utterly beautiful and virtually show-ready condition in all regards. The chassis and under-hood are clean and proper, and the paint, an attractive metallic shade similar to the factory Carlear Blue, has a rich shine and no readily visible flaws. The cloth interior and woodgrain dashboard are in beautiful condition with fresh, clear gauges. Even the exterior chrome is deep and beautiful.

This is, perhaps unsurprisingly, a CCCA Senior First Prize car, carrying badge no. 2999, and is one of the most striking Series 60 Specials to have been offered in recent memory. It would be an ideal acquisition for any knowledgeable Cadillac connoisseur.