1903 Cadillac Model A Runabout Rear Entry Tonneau

The first Cadillac vehicles offered for sale could be purchased as a Runabout with or without a tonneau. They were powered by a single-cylinder engine rated at only 6.5 horsepower, though they produced as much as 10 horsepower.

For 1903, Cadillac sold approximately 2,400 cars and was considered the best car in its price race and an exceptional value.

This 1903 Cadillac Model A Runabout Rear Entry Tonneau has engine number 692 and was shipped from the factory on June 17th of 1903. Its most recent owner acquired the car in 1999 and performed a restoration in 2002. During its restoration, a new body was fabricated by Terry Martin at Martin Carriage House in Warren, Ohio. The diamond-tufted leather upholstery was courtesy of Loren Burch of Pasadena.

Upon completion of the restoration, this car was shown at the Castle Hill Concours d'Elegance in September 2002 and at Hershey, PA. It was placed in storage in 2006 and in 2008, it was brought to RM Auctions' 'Vintage Motor Cars of Meadow Brook' sale. It was estimated to sell for $115,000-$140,000. Bidding reached $75,000 but was not enough to satisfy the reserve. The lot was left unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2008