1909 Cadillac Model 30 Demi-Tonneau

This 1909 Cadillac Model 30 4-Passenger Demi-Tonneau was given a restoration many years ago and finished to the standards of the time. Since that time, it has degraded due to age, weather, and use. There is rust in certain places, and the fenders are bent, but the chassis and body appear to be in good condition. The body is painted in a maroon-brown shade with black accents; the leather seats are in good condition for their age, but probably not up to standards for regular use.

The engine is runnable, displaces 226.2 cubic inches, and has four cylinders. It has individually-cast cylinders encased in copper water jackets. There is a three-speed manual transmission and two-wheel mechanical brakes. The chassis measures 106 inches and is suspended in place by a solid front axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and a live rear axle with platform leaf spring suspension.

The gas headlamps and kerosene side lamps are finished in brass. There are brackets for the tail lamp, but the lamp itself has been lost to time.

This vehicle was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars sale at Hershey, PA presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $30,000 - $40,000 and offered without a reserve. Bidding surpassed the estimates and settled at $74,800 including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2007