The most dramatic 1938 Cadillac was the new Series 60 Special, nestled between the entry-level 60 Series and the Fleetwood-bodied 75s. On a double-drop, lowered frame, the 60 Special (always spelled out) had a unique body and distinctive trim with wide-spaced grille bars. A five-window sedan with an exclusive greenhouse, it was styled to look like a convertible sedan in steel and had dual side-mounts.

Built on a 127-in. wheelbase, the 60 Special was three inches longer and three inches lower than the 60 Series, rendering running boards superfluous. The side windows had chrome perimeter frames and thin pillars, further echoing the convertible air.

The style returned for 1939 with bodies built for the 60 Special in the Fleetwood shops, Cadillac’s premium in-house coachbuilder. While significantly more expensive than 61 Series sedans at $2,195, the 60S was reasonably priced when compared to the Series 75 and 90 models for 1939. With thinner grille bars like the other Cadillacs, the 1939 60 Special retained the unique greenhouse. As before, it shared the 346-cu. in. L-head Cadillac V-8 and power train with its division siblings.

This 1939 Series 60 Special was shipped on 12 November 1938, to Housatonic Motors, the Bridgeport, Connecticut, dealer. As built, it was painted Marblehead Gray with Tan Bedford Cord upholstery, and fitted with Firestone whitewall tires. The only accessories were chrome wheel discs, license plate frames, and anti-freeze. At some point in its history, perhaps by the dealer, it was fitted with a heater. The current owner purchased the Cadillac about 10 years ago from a Detroit collector, who restored it to a high standard. The current shade of burgundy paint was applied at that time.

Cadillac built some 5,500 Series 60 Special sedans in 1939. This car represents a chance to acquire an excellent example.