By the close of 1920’s, Cadillac had cemented its reputation as America’s most technically innovative manufacturers. Many features on cars that we take for granted were first credited to Cadillac – the electric starter, safety glass, electric lamps, the all-steel roof (previous cars had fabric roof sections), the first synchromesh transmission, the first dual-plane crankshaft V8 and even the first V16 engine. Cadillacs of the era were renowned for their exceptional build quality, elegant style and robust performance and were considered to be among the best automobiles in the world.

The 1929 model year saw a light redesign that didn’t appear outwardly different from the ’28 models, but it was a significant year for Cadillac. Just a few tweaks were made to the styling of the front end by a new hire named Harley Earl; a man who would go on to be one of the most famous stylists in history and put GM at the top of the game in terms of style. Styling aside, the most significant changes for ’29 lay beneath the bodywork. The 341 cubic inch, 95 horsepower V8 was mated to an all-new “clashless” synchromesh gearbox, freeing drivers from the need to double clutch when changing gears and elevating Cadillac to the top of the luxury car market with this newly found ease of operation. The new gearbox allowed the car to be driven much more smoothly and deliver quiet performance – particularly important in chauffeur driven town cars. 1929 also saw the introduction of safety glass, yet another industry first. Braking and road holding were also excellent thanks to the strong chassis and powerful four-wheel mechanical brakes. Delco dual-action shock absorbers were fitted for the first time, and the 141” wheelbase made for a smooth and luxurious ride. A myriad of different body designs were offered mainly from Fisher and Fleetwood, though customers could of course specify a coachbuilder of their choice. Open, closed, sporty or formal, a Cadillac buyer could tailor a car to suit their specific needs.

This handsome 1929 341B features rare and desirable roadster coachwork by Fisher (Style 1184) wearing a very well-maintained older restoration. The attractive paint scheme features pale green fenders accented with gray main body sides and a gray hood, with pale green repeating on the rear deck. Bodywork is straight and attractive with good shut lines and panel fitment, showing this was a high quality restoration when first completed. It is, of course, nicely appointed for the period with features such as; dual sidemount spares, dual pilot ray lights, a golf bag door, rumble seat, running board courtesy lights, radiator stoneguard and flying goddess mascot. The simple and elegant interior is trimmed in light tan leather which presents in very nice condition, and new dark tan carpeting provides a bit of contrast. The folding soft top is new and trimmed in dark tan canvas to compliment the interior.. 1929 was the final year for the Style 1184 roadster body to be offered in the Fisher catalog and it was one of the most sporting offerings of the Cadillac range, as this car’s folding windscreen and rumble seat allude.

Power for the 341B comes via the 341 cubic inch L-head V8 engine that produced an advertised 90 horsepower. The engine is well detailed and tidy. Performance is quite respectable for a car of the era, and it is an absolute joy to drive thanks to the all-synchro gearbox (the first year for this feature on a Cadillac) and strong duplex mechanical brakes with internal shoes. The chassis is well detailed and largely correct, showing evidence of use though remaining tidy and in excellent mechanical order.

The CCCA recognizes the 341B as a Full Classic, and this example’s reliable, well-sorted nature makes it an ideal choice for CARavan touring or Cadillac LaSalle Club tours and events. This is quite simply beautiful car that looks magnificent on the road and has just the right amount of pleasing patina on the restoration to feel wonderfully sorted and capable from behind the wheel.