It has rightly been said that in terms of aesthetics Cadillac was in 1941 what Cord was in 1937, what Duesenberg was in 1929, and what LaSalle was in 1927. Overall, the entire 1941 Cadillac model lineup possessed a truly wonderful style and grace, which was coupled with the marque’s characteristically advanced engineering that was seldom seen in competing products.

Visually, the 1941 Cadillac was a masterpiece of subtle, flowing curves that began with a bold and distinctive grille design. The flat, chromed grille and domed hood were dominant, and two new styling concepts were available, the horizontal valance that enclosed the space between the bodywork and the bumpers and the front fender wind-split creases that began at the headlamps and extended horizontally back along each rear flank of the body. The sole available engine, Cadillac’s refined 346-cubic inch V-8, delivered remarkably silent and smooth operation, 150 horsepower, and plenty of torque. 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.

The 1941 Convertible Coupe is especially desired by collectors today, as it is one of the last pre-war Cadillac convertibles ever built. The U.S. Office of Production Management had anticipatorily ordered auto production cutbacks in August 1941 to 73.5 percent of the 1940 output. Shortly thereafter, the U.S. entered World War II on December 7th, just hours after the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, forcing an industry-wide conversion to the manufacture of war materials. Production was halted altogether on February 4, 1942. When the industry shut down to switch to war production, Cadillac was neck and neck with Packard as the leading luxury car in America.

The Convertible Coupe offered here is a well-maintained older restoration that is finished in black and has a red leather interior. The restoration shows signs of gentle use only in its engine compartment, while the shimmering paint, excellent chrome, and tight upholstery all remain in great shape. Importantly, the car is equipped with the Hydra-Matic, in its first year of offering, as well as an AM radio and power top—all that is necessary for effortless participation in a future CCCA CARavan or another important national tour.

This well-presented car is a pleasure to drive, and it ranks among the most desirable of Cadillacs. It will surely be at home in any classic environment.