Cadillac made great strides in styling for 1941. For the first time, headlights were fully integrated into the front fenders and a horizontal-theme grille stretched from side to side. The hood was made front-opening for the first time, and the gas tank filler was hidden in the left rear taillight, a feature that became a Cadillac hallmark. Hydra-Matic, General Motors’ new fully-automatic transmission, became available for the first time.

The Cadillac line had expanded to absorb the discontinued companion make LaSalle. Sales of this new Series 61 increased nearly 50 percent from the previous LaSalle volume of about 20,000 cars, but more surprising was the upscale 62 Series. Selling between $1,500 and $2,000, its sales actually increased by a whopping 280 percent, no doubt assisted by those affluent customers who were watching the preparations for war and feared a dearth of new cars for the duration. Apart from the Series 61, the most popular 1941 Cadillac was the model exemplified by this car, style number 6219; Cadillac, in traditional fashion, called it the “Touring Sedan for Five Passengers.”

Completely restored a number of years ago, this car is heavily optioned with dual spotlights, wide whitewalls, wheel trim rings, accessory bumper guards, fender skirts, a dashboard radio, and a fresh-air hot-water heater. It does not, however, have the popular Hydra-Matic transmission; its original owner apparently preferred the robust, tried-and-true three-speed manual. The 62,000 miles shown are believed to be original and correct. Prior to acquisition by the O’Quinn Collection, it belonged to an Illinois Cadillac dealer, who displayed it in his showroom. Paint trim and interior are all very good. The beige cloth seats and brown carpets are excellent, and the interior plastic shows no flaws. The dashboard wood grain is similarly very good. The engine compartment begs only for minor detailing.

Series 62 Cadillacs from 1940–1942 are very popular cars for vintage touring, particularly in Classic Car Club of America CARavans tours, where they are recognized as Full Classics. They are eligible for all club meets and CCCA judging. This car’s capacious luggage compartment and strong V-8 engine make it ideal for long-distance tours.