Lot 131

Hilton Head 2015

1941 Cadillac Series 61

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$45,000 - $55,000 USD | Not Sold

United States | Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

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  • 346-cid, 150-hp L-head V-8 engine
  • Optional automatic transmission
  • Thought to have had only two previous owners
  • "Recent & correct interior
  • Nicely presented
  • Optional fender skirts
  • Optional spotlight
  • Great choice for modern motoring

It has rightly been forwarded that in terms of aesthetics, Cadillac was to 1941 what Cord was to 1937, what Duesenberg was to 1929, and what LaSalle was to 1927. Overall, the entire 1941 Cadillac model lineup possessed a truly wonderful style and grace, coupled with the marque’s characteristically advanced engineering that was seldom seen in competing products. It is thought by some that, aesthetically, this model year was a high point in Cadillac styling.

Visually, the 1941 Cadillac was a masterpiece of subtle, flowing curves that began with a bold and distinctive grille design. The renowned eggcrate texture of the front grille is accredited to sketches made by Arthur Ross and refined to a flatter look by Harley Earl. The flat, chromed grille and domed hood were dominant, and for the first time, headlights were fully integrated into the front fenders. In turn, the hood was made front-opening for the first time in the Cadillac line. The Series 61 Coupe and Sedan had fastback styling reminiscent of the aerodynamic coupes of the 1930s and the term 'Sedanette' became a popular way to refer to his styling trait.

The Series 61 was the most popular of the 1941 Cadillac cast of cars in that it was deemed to be the best way to square ones income with the natural desirability to own what was new and best. For 1941 motorcars, the best solution was the reintroduction of the Series 61 Cadillac, which had replaced LaSalle in the Cadillac price structure. The Series 61 cars were powered by the mighty and respected 346-cid, 150-hp L-head V-8 engine that was the same unit utilized throughout the Cadillac line. It was refined and delivered remarkably silent and smooth operation with plenty of torque. Nineteen forty-one marked the first year in Cadillac history that an automatic transmission was offered and this very nice example is one of the few fitted with the $125 factory option.

This two-tone gray ‘Sedanette’ (officially known as a Five-Passenger Coupe) has a rose-toned interior that is reported as “recent and correct.” The current owner relays that although it has not yet been verified; he believes that this is a two previous owner car originally from Mississippi. The paint is said to be very nice, with great brightwork, and generally very nice overall. The Cadillac drives well and the engine compartment is considered to be clean. The trunk upholstery has been replaced and the spare tire is onboard. The features include a radio, clock, front bumper guards, red steel wheels, whitewall tires, spotlight (a $18.50 option when new) and fender skirts – representing an option that cost $17.50 per pair.

Ride and handling characteristics remain quite good, even by today’s standards, making Cadillacs of the immediate pre-war era excellent choices for collectors and enthusiasts who enjoy driving.