Hi everyone I'm new to the forum and was wondering your take on a value on a 1940 Cadillac coupe series 62 that's been sitting for about 10 years, runs and drives, decent driver quality paint has heater and defrost option. Needs interior work, seats are ripped and tires are dry rotted. Just trying to get a baseline on what I should pay sorry I do not have pics at this time. Thanks in advance.
Pictures of its condition are everything Gary to get yourself views from the great people on this forum. Price your willing to pay can also based on what you can do yourself. I do my own interiors but I know they can be frighteningly expensive if you have to pay someone else. I bought my 40 coupe last year in rough driver condition so I have a small insight.
Took some pics http://s1326.photobucket.com/user/66trakpak/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsd07652ec.jpg.html http://s1326.photobucket.com/user/66trakpak/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps491e4079.jpg.html http://s1326.photobucket.com/user/66trakpak/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps432a16c0.jpg.html http://s1326.photobucket.com/user/66trakpak/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsf9ddb60e.jpg.html
Nice looking car. Value is dependent on various factors. I use a estimate of what it will cost to get it into the condition I want it in and go from there. Is there any major rust? Has it had any recent mechanical work. What is the condition of the running gear?
I see it needs upholstery work and probably a new wiring harness also. tires and possibly brakes would also be in order. The car would have to be cleaned up and new pictures taken to guess any more.
There are lots of resources on line that will give you values but condition is the main factor. Are you wanting a hobby and can do a lot of work yourself? Are you healthy enough and have the resources to take the car to the level you would want it to be?
Good luck and if you buy it I hope you will join this club and enjoy the benefits associated with membership.
Thanks the car has no major rust and the running gear is functional but will need regular maintenance fluids etc and I would go through the brake system I am capable of these chores myself just not upholstery work. The car is very solid and was originally long key green color #6
Looks like a good project. Paint looks about the same as mine was but your chrome is much better, thats a big plus. I have heard people talk about interiors in the "Up to $10,000" range in the US. You could get just the seats done but believe me it will show up the rest of the interior. I had all the other issues to deal with also. brakes, wiring, general work. My value would be $15,000 to $20,000.
A nice driver would cost 20K to 30K and fully restored up to 40K.
Thanks for the input good info I'll keep you posted on the progress if I can seal the deal. :)
Hi Gary,
I acquired one last Summer; the numbers above are just about right from what I have experienced. The chrome and pot metal on that car seem good, which will save you thousands. I haven't done the interior yet. Fabric seems to run around $75 per yard for original (NOS) Bedford Cord and broadcloth. Figure in the labor, and also interior trim items that need work. Fortunately, the coupe has only two door panels and a relatively simple back seat.
This is probably preaching to the choir, but I would also ensure the car is complete, or that you have access to parts that aren't with the car. Parts are available, but not plentiful, and those that are rare are expensive.
Good luck! Let us know how it works out.
Ed Buliavac
I concur with Ed about making sure its complete. Many parts were missing from mine that are specific to that year and I have never seen them for sale anywhere to this day.
It is hard to tell at the time of sale that it is complete or not. I purchased a 1942 - 6719 and was assured only two easy to find parts were missing. Unbeknownst to me it was being sold because the owner had a terminal illness and was getting his affairs in order. It took over two years to find a proper foot rest (This car has two short foot rests) for example.
Not trying to scare you but the whackiest shortages can drive you crazy,
That's true. I should add the people on this forum are a big help in finding parts.
Thanks for the info guys just the bumperettes and turn signal tops are missing. Years ago my dad had 3 of these 40s 2 2door converts and 1 coupe. So I do have some parts left at my moms garage. I have 2 grilles and some cracked steering wheels I may sell if anyone needs stuff I will look into it I will know if the car deal is completed tommorow thanks
Hi guys, I just bought the car and am very happy to get it! I will post pics later when I get it inside my shop.
That's a good outcome, particularly when you added the bit about your Dad's prior 40 ownership. As they say "a chip off the old block", "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree" and "like fathere , like son".
Good luck with it and yes, post more pics.
I've got a bit of a 39 and 40 love affair going on as my 39 custom progresses, so I'll be keen to learn your plans.
some pics from today when I picked it up. http://s1326.photobucket.com/user/66trakpak/library/40%20caddy
Found a post card picture of one of our 40 vert's on Ebay. I remember when this picture was taken in Southhampton NY on the back of the card is my dads name printed on it. Haven't seen these in years. http://www.ebay.com/itm/1940-Cadillac-convertible-car-print-white-/261708311697?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cef07ec91
Quote from: Quentin Hall on December 23, 2014, 02:05:11 PM
That's a good outcome, particularly when you added the bit about your Dad's prior 40 ownership. As they say "a chip off the old block", "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree" and "like fathere , like son".
Good luck with it and yes, post more pics.
I've got a bit of a 39 and 40 love affair going on as my 39 custom progresses, so I'll be keen to learn your plans.
Thanks Quentin, I look forward to becoming a part of this community again after all these years. Looks like you have a good project going would like to see some pics