In the wake of the Great Depression, under the leadership of Nick Dreystadt, Cadillac surged forward into a new modern era thanks in part to models such as the Cadillac Series 60 Special.

Harley Earl appointed Bill Mitchell chief designer for the new Cadillac design studio in 1936 with a focus on bringing a wave of styling changes to create far more progressive new models.

When first introduced in 1938, the Series 60 Special was designed for the “owner-driver” accustomed to a high level of status and luxury while preferring not to employ a chauffeur.

The sleek, coupe-like design with simulated convertible hardtop used a double dropped frame to lower the body and lengthen the front fenders in place of heavy running boards.

By 1940, every Series 60 model would be Fleetwood marketed, which included higher-end molding, trim, and upholstery.

Meanwhile, 1941 became a watershed model-year for Cadillac as every model received numerous updates—for example, the front fenders on the 60 Speci...