Nineteen thirty-one is considered by many the apogee of Cadillacs of the Classic Era with the introduction of a new V-12 series to fill the gap between the V-8 and the V-16. The Standard of the World was certainly an understatement among luxury marques with offerings of 134-, 140-, and 143-in. wheelbases; bodies by Fisher and Fleetwood; three different engine configurations; and the more moderately priced LaSalle as part of its lineup.

It arguably began a trend that eventually led to Cadillac’s domination of the luxury car field over rival Packard. While the flagship V-12 and V-16 gathered all the fanfare, the V-8 powered models like this Sport Phaeton sold in steady numbers, helping Cadillac’s bottom line during difficult economic times. Cadillac produced a total of 10,717 V-8s, 5,733 V-12s, and 363 V-16s for the model year.

For 1931, all Series 355 Cadillacs rode a new 134-in. wheelbase shared with its companion LaSalle; six inches shorter than 1930 models while giving the cars a more sporting appearance. The five-passenger sport phaeton weighed in at 4,380 lbs. at a base price of $2,945.

This example received its CCCA National First Prize, badge no. 1130, in 1984 and its Senior Award in 1991 while under the stewardship of its former owner, renowned collector Zach Brinkerhoff. Brinkerhoff sold the Cadillac to the consignor in 2001 and the car has been toured and shown at many AACA meets during his ownership. Finished in a very sporting two-tone green with saddle interior, it includes a 1930–1931 Cadillac/LaSalle shop manual. The car has been exercised and used regularly and according to the owner, will be an excellent tour vehicle for its new owner, eligible for all CCCA events, including Grand Classics and CARavans.