1936 Cadillac Series 70 Convertible Sedan

For 1934, Cadillac introduced a new X-frame chassis that supported new bodywork which, from a style standpoint, moved from classic formality to sleek streamlining. The designs had airfoil-shaped front fenders and a steeply raked V-shaped radiator shell, with rear fenders sweeping neatly into the rear deck. Cadillac chose to use minimal chrome treatments giving it a classy appearance. The hood was extended and given horizontal cooling louvers which visually lengthened the entire car.

The body designs would remain virtually unchanged for 1935 and 1936, with the exception of a narrower radiator shell, repositioned headlamps, and the appearance of built-in luggage trunks.

With the improved body construction, the passengers were further isolated from engine heat and road noise. The handling and ride were improved with the new 'Knee-Action' independent front suspension.

For 1936, the Cadillac 36-70 and the 36-75 were available in a variety of body styles. The 36-70 came as an enclosed- or convertible coupe, a touring sedan, or a convertible sedan. Pricing ranged from $2450-$2745. The 36-70 had a wheelbase size of 131 inches while the 36-75 body styles rested on a larger, 138-inch platform. The 36-75 were custom bodied by Fleetwood with 10 body styles to select from. Five of these body styles were for five-passenger vehicles while the remaining five body styles had seating for seven. An additional four body styles were available as Fleetwood-bodied Commercial vehicles. The most expensive vehicle in the lineup was the $4,445 seven-passenger Town Car.

Powering these Cadillac models was a 90-degree, L-head eight-cylinder engine with the blocks cast enblock with the crankcase. The 346 cubic-inch unit produced 135 horsepower and was mated to a three-speed selective synchromesh gearbox. Hydraulic drums could be found in both the front and the back.

This Series 75 Convertible Sedan is the 58th example produced for 1936. In the 1970s, it was given a restoration. A short time after the work was completed, the car was sold to its current owner, a Cadillac dealer. Since then, it has been displayed in his showroom, driven sparingly, and occasionally used for special events and weddings.

This Convertible Sedan features a division window, a 'banjo' steering wheel, and dual side-mounted covered spares.

In 2010, this car was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars of Hershey presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $60,000 - $80,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $57,750, which includes the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2010