The introduction of Cadillac’s Series 60 line-up in the mid-1930s allowed General Motors’ luxury division to push its full-size cars upscale. With Harley Earl at the helm, GM’s design department entered the 1940s in grand style. At the forefront was the Cadillac Series 67 and 75.

Despite its nomenclature, the Series 67 was the larger of the two—and with its 139-in. wheelbase, it was the longest Cadillac available. The Fisher-bodied Series 67 was not as opulently trimmed outside as the 75, but its Fleetwood interior lived up to the brand’s standards and provided a comfort respite as the U.S. entered World War II in 1942.

New car production in the States came to a halt in February of 1942, making any vehicle built for that model year scarce. The Series 67 presented here is among the rarest and is one of fewer than 300 assembled.

It was treated to a careful cosmetic restoration prior to 2010, and its odometer shows about 44,500 miles. Under its hood sits Cadillac’s 346-cu. in. flathead V-8, rated here at 150 hp and sent to the rear wheels via a three-speed, column-mounted synchromesh manual gearbox.

This elegant, understated Cadillac features an appropriate dark blue paint scheme over grey broadcloth upholstery. Wood-graining, an ivory steering wheel and a luxurious rear seating area with footrests and jump seats serve as reminders of its opulence. Its interior shows few signs of use. Under its hood, the V-8 is tidy but has not been detailed. Following a cosmetic restoration, work has been undertaken with the present owner to improve driveability, including recoring th radiator and fitting a new waterpump.

These rarely seen and underappreciated pre-war Cadillacs are as stately today as they were 75 years ago.