Bryon,
I feel, what a collector puts his/her time, effort and money into should be a personal choice. As far as ROE is concerned, there are far better places to put money to make money. However, the cars you mention would be high on my “love to own” list. I’m intrigued by ’42 models because of the short production run. That also means limited trim and body parts, that I find the most expensive and time consuming part of restoration. Imagine trying to find a flow through fender panel or chrome trim for a ’42 Roadmaster. The ’42 Cadillac would be a bit easier than a Buick because the Cadillac body is closer to ’41. Mechanically you should be able to find what you need for the ’42 because many parts were carried over from ’41 and into the 46-48 production.
There were about 900 ’41 Series 67s built causing the same parts problem as the ’42. You’ll just have to look longer and harder given the greater number of trim parts. IMHO, it’s also the most glamorous and interesting car of the trio. If I had unlimited resources I’d buy all three. If I had to chose, I consider the condition the most important factor: body/rust first, chrome trim and availability second, and mechanicals third.
I feel the same as you do about restricting attendance to the show fields to members only. It limits our exposure to potential new members. Our region has 125 members and I know of only 2 whom under 40 years old. We need exposure to younger people and their children to generate interest on the part of future generations. I admit to a selfish motive also. Our “old Cadillacs” are a limited commodity. Greater interest and membership in the CLC, creates greater the demand for our Cadillacs……….AND………increases their value. Who knows, restoration might become a break even proposition?
Let us know what you do, and hope you consider rejoining.
Ralph
