Cadillac Series 62 Convertible, Green, for sale in Warrensville Heights, Ohio, for $59,900.

The combination of Full Classic status and their outstanding performance makes them extremely popular, and you can’t argue with their handsome good looks.

1941 was a remarkable year for General Motors. Perhaps the drums of war had an effect on the stylists, engineers, and workers who were putting cars together that year, because the machines they turned out were some of the highest-quality, most beautifully styled cars of all time. With the introduction of the Hydramatic 4-speed automatic transmission in the Cadillac lineup, GM’s top-of-the-line brand had a lot to be proud of, and they set sales records in virtually every segment. With the mighty V16 gone in 1939, it fell to cars like this Series 62 convertible coupe to carry the luxury banner, and they were so successful that these cars remain some of the most sought-after collectables of the late pre-war era. And as legitimate CCCA Full Classics, they are welcome at every big event and caravan, where their superlative road manners and comfortable interiors make them a favorite for folks who like to drive their machinery.

This 1941 Series 62 convertible coupe is an older restoration that’s holding up quite well. The color is the original code 64 Cimarron Green, which is a refreshing change from basic black and gives the upscale Cadillac a sporty, light-hearted demeanor. Careful inspection reveals that this was probably never a rusty car, as all the problem areas remain solid and clean, including the floors at the base of the A-pillar and the rear of the trunk compartment. The paint is probably single-stage enamel, and is showing some age with a few nicks here and there, and some age-related cracking on the passenger’s front fender, but nothing that requires rework. The rear fenders appear to have been painted more recently, as they are ever so slightly shiner than the rest of the car, but this in no way detracts from the overall presentation, which is quite good. Chrome and stainless are in similar condition, including the eggcrate grille which shows zero pitting, and the hood ornament which retains almost all of its original detailing. Both front and rear bumpers are excellent with no flaking or chips, and all the stainless is bright.

The green leather interior appears to have been restored at the same time as the rest of the car, although it’s quite possible that the back seat is original. New door panels, seat covers, carpets, and a fresh tan canvas top were installed, and it all has a comfortable patina that allows you to enjoy the car without worries and still show it proudly. The woodgrained dash is simply beautiful, and all the gauges are fully operational. In fact, this is one of those rare cars where EVERYTHING works, including the radio (which has a handy cassette adapter hanging under the dash), clock, heater/defroster, and even the power top. The steering wheel is much too nice to be original, but uses the correct cream-colored plastic, rather than the bright off-white that seems to be used by many restorers today. The trunk is nicely finished using gray fabric, and includes a matching wheel and tire assembly.

Mechanically, Cadillac’s 346 cubic inch flathead V8 had evolved to the point where it was as reliable as a wood burning stove in 1941. With 150 horsepower, it moves the sporty convertible easily, and this one keeps up with traffic without working hard. Highway cruising is effortless at 65 MPH, and thanks to the Hydramatic transmission, it is as easy to drive as your daily commuter car. It starts quickly thanks to an electric fuel pump upgrade, and idles well with a nice V8 rumble from the exhaust that has that far-away sound of pre-war luxury. The transmission shifts firmly with that precise mechanical feeling all early Hydramatics exhibit, and correctly downshifts with a prod of the accelerator or when slowing to a stop. Brakes are firm and responsive, the steering is surprisingly light and accurate, and, well, the car is an absolute pleasure to drive. Four relatively recent BFGoodrich white whitewall tires have been fitted to the original steel wheels which wear correct Cadillac hubcaps.

If you’ve been watching the market on these cars, you know that nice ones are rapidly approaching the six-figure mark. The combination of Full Classic status and their outstanding performance makes them extremely popular, and you can’t argue with their handsome good looks. A pre-war Classic that does it all, this convertible coupe is a nice example with a reasonable price tag, and all the challenging, expensive work is done. If you like the color, you’ll love the car!