1903 Cadillac Model A

$129,250

Sale Price

$140,000 - $180,000

Est. Range

Yes

Reserve

7 October 2021

Sold Date

180

Lot Number

Concours restoration

RM Sotheby's

Auction House

Engine no. 1497. Maroon with black accent over black leather. RHD. 98/6.5 hp, 2-speed, White tires, Solarclipse acetylene headlight, Dietz Dainty kerosene sidelights and taillight, red wood spoke wheels and chassis, bulb horn.

Evaluation: AACA Grand National winner #2019, 2004 AACA Senior W21662. Concours restored with bright paint and brass, Impeccable upholstery. Fresh chassis and engine with only appropriate lubrication showing. As good as it gets and LBVCR eligible.

Bottom Line: From the first year of Cadillac, powered by the Leland & Faulconer “Little Hercules” single cylinder engine that would soon establish Cadillac’s reputation not only for reliability but also for Henry Leland’s insistence upon precision manufacture and interchangeable parts. This is a gorgeous example needing only VCC dating verification to take part in a cold, wet trip from London to Brighton. The LBVCR experience supports the price it brought, not to mention its magnificent restoration and presentation.

by Rick Carey

17 November 2021

A story about

Prewar RM Sotheby's

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Condition definitions

Condition #1: Concours

Condition #1 vehicles are the best in the world. The visual image is of the best vehicle, in the right colors, driving onto the lawn at the finest concours. Perfectly clean, the vehicle has been groomed down to the tire treads. Painted and chromed surfaces are mirror-like. Dust and dirt are banned, and materials used are correct and superbly fitted. The one word description for #1 vehicles is “concours.“

Condition #2: Excellent

#2 vehicles could win a local or regional show. They can be former #1 vehicles that have been driven or have aged. Seasoned observers will have to look closely for flaws, but will be able to find some not seen by the general public. The paint, chrome, glass and finishes will all appear as excellent. No excessive smoke will be seen on startup, no unusual noises will emanate from the engine. The vehicle will drive as a new vehicle of its era would. The one word description for #2 vehicles is “excellent.“

Condition #3: Good

#3 vehicles could possess some, but not all of the issues of a #4 vehicle, but they will be balanced by other factors such as a fresh paint job or a new, correct interior where applicable. #3 vehicles drive and run well, but might have some incorrect parts. These vehicles are not used for daily transportation but are ready for a long tour without excuses, and the casual passerby will not find any visual flaws. “Good” is the one word description of a #3 vehicle.

Condition #4: Fair

#4 vehicles are daily drivers, with flaws visible to the naked eye. The chrome might have pitting or scratches, the windshield might be chipped. Paintwork is imperfect, and perhaps the body has a minor dent. Split seams or a cracked dash, where applicable, might be present. No major parts are missing, but the wheels could differ from the originals, or other non- stock additions might be present. A #4 vehicle can also be a deteriorated restoration. “Fair” is the one word that describes a #4 vehicle.

Condition #5: Poor

Running, but battered, incomplete, and perhaps rusty.

Condition #6: Parts car

Parts car.

N/A

Hagerty only assigns condition ratings to vehicles we can inspect in person or, for online listings, via high-quality photography.

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