Engine No. 810454
Fleetwood Style No. 4535

As the 1930s unfolded and the Great Depression began to challenge the automotive industry, Cadillac found its footing with the 355 series. Introduced in 1931 and produced through 1935, this V8-powered model anchored the company's lineup during one of America's most turbulent decades. The 355A carried forward the proven 353 cu-in L-head V8 from its predecessor, refined to deliver 95 horsepower. Buyers could choose from an expansive catalog of semi-custom Fisher and Fleetwood body styles, from the stately Imperial Limousine to this handsome Convertible Coupe, all riding on a 134-inch wheelbase. Despite the economic uncertainty that gripped the nation, the 355A kept the company afloat, providing a steady foundation that allowed the marque to continue producing its renowned V-12s and V-16s at the top of the range.

This charming Fleetwood-bodied 355A V-8 wears style number 4535, a gorgeous open two-door known as the Convertible Coupe. Perhaps best suited to the 355A's compact 134-inch wheelbase, the Convertible Coupe exudes elegance with the top raised, or sporting flair when neatly folded away into the contoured beltline which allows it to sit almost flush with the body. A copy of the original factory sales order shows that the example presented here was dispatched through the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, branch on 5 November 1931. The car was originally specified in Highland Green with Black fenders and Tokio Ivory pinstriping over a Green leather interior, with additional equipment including a Goddess radiator mascot and a tool kit. Significantly, the Cadillac retains its original, matching-numbers 353 cu-in engine (no. 810454) as confirmed by the sales order.

A CCCA national award winner, the Convertible Coupe has been fully restored to its original Highland Green and Black factory livery, joined by a dark green Stayfast canvas soft top. The exterior is well accessorized with a radiator stone guard, pivoting Pilot Ray headlamps, dual taillights, a golf bag door, chrome landau irons, and trunk rack. Inside, the as-delivered exterior color scheme is echoed by the green leather-trimmed seat and door panels, complemented by a matching leather-trimmed rumble seat and dark green wool carpeting. The Cadillac's wonderful restoration earned it CCCA Senior First Prize recognition at the Michigan Summer Grand Classic in 2017, with a badge proudly adorning the car.

This matching-numbers 355A exemplifies why the Cadillac 355 series has earned its place among collectors. It marries the grand elegance of Harley Earl's Art and Colour Section design with a mechanical package that remains robust and straightforward to operate nearly a century on. It is clear that this Convertible Coupe underwent a restoration to a very high standard, and as part of The Bill Spurling Collection since 2019, it has been cherished and well maintained. A superb all-rounder of the Classic Era, it remains an ideal candidate for enjoyment across future Cadillac & LaSalle Club or CCCA events.