Compared to its predecessor, the exterior of the 1929 Cadillac was little changed. The parking lamps were moved from the cowl to the tops of the fenders, which was a subtle modification that provided a sportier look. Significant changes took place under the sheet metal, with the most important of these being a new “clash-less” Synchro-Mesh Silent-Shift transmission, which negated the need for double-clutching and enabled much smoother gear selection. New mechanical four-wheel brakes required considerably less pedal pressure than earlier models, and the shatterproof Security Plate glass became standard in all windows. The suspension system featured new double-acting Delco shock absorbers, and the fully adjustable seats became standard.

The handsome example offered here is Fisher body style number 8630, a Seven-Passenger Imperial Sedan, the term used by Cadillac to refer to its limousine with a division window. The car is recorded by its original Cadillac build sheet, a copy of which is on file, as having originally been finished in Black and Calumet Blue, with a black roof and six painted wire wheels—exactly as it is presented today. In fact, a closed Cadillac of this vintage is seldom found with so authentic a restoration. Correct materials and fittings were used throughout, including upholstery fabrics. The accessory trunk still holds leather-covered suitcases with their mint original woven liners, and bud vases are still present in the rear passenger compartment. The car was recently fully serviced by Brian Joseph’s Classic & Exotic Service and returned to its original mechanical standards.

This Cadillac, originally delivered in Los Angeles, remains one of the nicest surviving examples of its kind. It is perfectly ideal for running to one’s favorite watering hole—which, unlike in 1929, is now perfectly legal—or for traveling on a CCCA CARavan.