Full details & bid : bringatrailer.comStep back in time with this stately 1940 Cadillac Series 60 Special sedan, a vehicle with a rich history, reportedly remaining within the same family from the late 1950s until its acquisition by the current seller in 2024. Having been in storage since the 1990s, this classic Cadillac has recently received a tune-up, including the replacement of essential ignition components and a fuel system cleaning, bringing its 346ci V8 engine back to life. Finished in an older repaint of black over a two-tone tan vinyl interior, this Series 60 Special is equipped with a three-speed manual transmission, a heater for comfort, and iconic 16″ steel wheels adorned with chrome hubcaps. Offered at no reserve, this piece of pre-war automotive history awaits its next custodian.
Power and Performance: Under the long hood of this 1940 Cadillac resides a robust 346ci Monobloc L-head V8 engine. When new, this engine was rated at 135 horsepower, providing smooth and reliable power for the era. The engine is equipped with a single-barrel Stromberg carburetor. A recent tune-up performed by the seller included replacing the spark plugs, points, condenser, and coil, ensuring reliable ignition. Power is routed to the rear wheels through a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission, offering a traditional and engaging driving experience. The fuel system has also been cleaned, contributing to the car’s drivability.
Classic Exterior Styling: Originally delivered in a sophisticated two-tone Chickory Green and Evergreen Metallic finish, this Series 60 Special now wears an older repaint in black. While the finish shows some imperfections, as noted in the photo gallery, it retains a classic and imposing presence. Exterior design highlights include elegant running boards, a distinctive split windshield, and chrome bumpers, which do exhibit some scratches. A unique feature of this model is the inclusion of dual spare tire cases integrated into the front fenders, a testament to the era’s design sensibilities.
Vintage Interior Comfort: The cabin of this 1940 Cadillac offers spacious seating with front and rear bench seats upholstered in a two-tone tan vinyl. While the original radio is missing, the heater controls remain under the dash, offering a touch of comfort for cooler climates. The weatherstripping shows its age with wear, and some rust is present on the floorboards and the bottom edge of the trunk lid, indicative of its years. Rear passengers are provided with thoughtful amenities such as a footrest, a fold-down center armrest, and a robe rope, reflecting the luxury of the time.
Instrumentation and Details: The steering wheel frames a 100-mph speedometer and auxiliary gauges, providing essential information to the driver. The five-digit odometer currently displays 30k miles; however, with only approximately five miles added by the current owner, the true mileage of this vehicle is unknown. The body plate reveals interesting details about its original configuration, including the style number for a 1940 Series 60 Special sedan with a Fleetwood body, a tan plain cloth trim, and its original two-tone green exterior colors.
Wheels, Tires, and Brakes: This 1940 Cadillac rides on body-color 16″ steel wheels fitted with chrome hubcaps and period-correct 6.50-16 Firestone Deluxe Champion wide-whitewall tires. Braking is handled by hydraulically assisted drum brakes at all four corners, a standard feature for vehicles of this era.
Summary
- Older repaint in black (originally Chickory Green and Evergreen Metallic).
- Powered by a 346ci Monobloc L-head V8 engine.
- Column-shifted three-speed manual transmission.
- Two-tone tan vinyl interior with bench seats.
- Equipped with a heater.
- Features 16″ steel wheels with chrome hubcaps and wide-whitewall tires.
- Includes running boards and a split windshield.
- Dual spare tire cases in the front fenders.
- Recent tune-up including ignition components and fuel system cleaning.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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