The 1938 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 75 imperial touring sedan represents a high point of pre-war American luxury manufacturing. This massive, seven-passenger vehicle features coachwork exclusively by Fleetwood, signifying its top-tier status. This particular car carries notable long-term ownership, having been owned by California businessman Paul Pelosi from 1956 through 2007. The rarity of the Style No. 38-7533 model combined with its provenance makes this 1938 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 75 Sedan a compelling piece of history.
Exterior Grandeur and Touring Features
Originally finished in Black, the sedan has since been repainted in a stately gray color. The exterior design features the distinctive massive vertical cellular grille and alligator hood shared with the Series 65 models. Notable details include the elegant Flying Goddess hood ornament and yellow-lens driving lights. This touring sedan is equipped with running boards and rear-hinged rear doors, known colloquially as suicide doors. The paint shows expected defects and wear, consistent with an older car.
Wheels, Tires, and Accessories
The massive size of the car is emphasized by its large 15″ steel wheels painted in red. These wheels wear bright chrome hubcaps and Firestone whitewall bias ply tires. In a classic touch of pre-war luxury, the car features dual side-mounted spare tires. These spares are neatly covered by hinged covers integrated into the front fenders. Stopping power is provided by hydraulically actuated drums at each corner.
A Divided Interior for Seven Passengers
This seven-passenger imperial model is defined by its distinct separation between the driver and passenger compartments. The driver’s area houses a bench seat trimmed in black leather. Woodgrain trim elements accent the windows in this compartment. Meanwhile, the spacious passenger area features a rear bench seat upholstered in tan cloth. This cloth trim is complemented by matching side trim and headliner.
Passenger Compartment Amenities
The defining feature is the partition wall with a crank-operated glass divider window. This physical separation ensured privacy for the occupants in the rear. Additional features include a pair of fold-forward jump seats, allowing for seven total passengers. Rear occupants benefited from a footrest bar, sliding grab handles, and reading lights. A Fleetwood-branded clock is built directly into the partition wall.
Engine Power and Mechanical Specifications
The 1938 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 75 Sedan is powered by a replacement 346ci Monobloc L-head V8 engine. While this engine block is consistent with a later 1948 Cadillac Series 62, it is the same displacement originally used. The 1938 346ci V8 produced 140 horsepower, offering ample torque for this large vehicle. This engine is fitted with a Stromberg carburetor and retains its original six-volt electrical system. Power is routed to the rear wheels through a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission. The fuel pump was recently replaced, ensuring the large V8 receives adequate fuel.
A Summary of American Luxury History
This 1938 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 75 imperial touring sedan is a unique opportunity to acquire a grand piece of pre-war engineering. The Style No. 38-7533 body exemplifies the exclusive coachwork of the Fleetwood division. Its seven-passenger layout, impressive size, and unique divider window speak to the height of 1930s luxury. Combined with its documented long-term ownership by Paul Pelosi, this stately 1938 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 75 Sedan is an artifact of both automotive and political history.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
