1931 Cadillac Series 355-A Eight Phaeton

This 1931 Cadillac V8 Phaeton is mostly un-restored and a wonderfully preserved example of the Series 355. Its 5785cc V8 engine produces 95 horsepower which is sent to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual gearbox.

The 355 Series was similar in 1931 to the 353 Series that preceded it, though there were a few changes. The body was considerably lower and the hood was longer and featured five hood ports. To the discerning eye, the differences continued with dual horns, a single-bar bumper, and an oval instrument panel. The engine was unchanged. Cadillac offered the car in saloon and coupe body styles. Fleetwood, an earlier acquisition by Cadillac, offered several other styles, such as the two four-door phaetons and five-passenger version.

This particular example, finished in dark blue paint and black beltline, was originally owned by the family of Ms. Flora M. Bonney of Long Island, NY. It was mostly chauffeur-driven before being stored for many years. It was later purchased by Philip Wichard in 1967, who drove the car in the Glidden Tour. The car remained in his care until his death in 1995. Mr. Albert Obrist purchased the car, now showing 36,000 miles on the odometer. Possession later passed to the Ecclestone Collection in 1999.

The car has an external luggage rack with a leather trunk. There are red Cadillac split-ring wire wheels with matching red pinstripes on the body of the V8 Phaeton. The cowl lights are period correct as are the headlights. Optional equipment fitted to this car includes wind wings and twin Pilot Ray driving lights.

The interior is comfortable, finished in red leather that was redone by Reuters of New York.

In 2008 the car was brought to the 2008 Automobiles of Amelia presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $90,000 - $110,000. The estimates were accurate and the car was sold for $110,000 including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008