1939 Cadillac V16 Convertible Coupe - Sold at $300,000

Specifications: Series 39-90. 185bhp, 431 cu. in. 135 degree side valve L-head V16 engine with twin down draught carburetors, three-speed column shift manual transmission, coil spring independent front suspension and leaf spring and live axle rear suspension, servo-assisted four-wheel hydraulic brakes. Wheelbase: 141.25"

The example offered here is a Style 39-9067 Fleetwood Convertible Coupe. It is body number six of seven examples built, and one of just two known survivors. According to a copy of the original Cadillac Shipping Order, the car was shipped on June 9, 1939 to dealer Claude Nolan Cadillac, in Jacksonville, Florida. The firewall still bears the original body tag ? which has never been removed ? and which confirms that the car is in fact, body number six.

While the early history of this example is not known, it was part of the collection of "Carpet King" Ed Weaver of Dalton, Georgia at the time of his death. The current owner acquired the car at the auction of the Weaver Collection, and has maintained and upgraded it ever since.

Most recently, it has benefited from a concours quality bare metal strip and repaint in its original black. A new top was fitted at the same time, piped in rich dark red leather to match the interior. The car is well equipped, with a set of Trippe driving lights, radio, clock and heater.

In 1939, Cadillac built just seven of them, and just four survive.

Specs & Details:

Auction Date: 18 Jan 2008
Sold For: $300,000
# Bids: 14
Engine: 16
Transmission: manual
Exterior Color: black
Interior Color: brown