Elegance in Motion: Steve Plunkett’s Restored 1930 Cadillac “Complete luxury in transportation” is how the ad began for the brand-new Cadillac in 1930. Steve Plunkett owns one of the initial chauffeur-driven versions of this car to roll off the line: a Series 353 Fleetbourne Transformable Limousine Brougham. If you wanted to make a statement about your wealth and status in the 1930s, this was the car for you. The vehicle combined a town car with a limo. An open front allowed the chauffeur to drive in the fresh air, leaving the passengers sheltered and enjoying the comfort of the roomy interior. There was a covering available for the driver in case of inclement weather. At the time, Cadillac touted the strength of the car’s braking system. It has a V-8 motor and 3-speed Cadillac synchromesh transmission invented in 1928. The vehicle was capable of reaching speeds of up to a whopping 90 Mph. Steve purchased it from a dealer in 2009. “I restored the car two years ago from a very solid base car,” says Steve. “I designed the paint scheme, too.” It gleams in black with deep red, chrome accents and bright white tires. Although the original vehicle was all black with an ivory stripe, Steve says the paint colours he chose were common for the era. All Cadillacs were assembled at the huge Clark Ave. plant in Detroit from 1928 to ‘93. Cadillac has kept a record of all build sheets dating back to 1902. Steve acquired the sheet for his particular car, which shows it was shipped to Inglis Uppercu, owner of the Detroit Cadillac Motor Car Company in New York. It’s not known who purchased the car from Mr. Uppercu, but it was likely someone with deep pockets from New York or New Jersey. It retailed for US $4145. Adjusted for inflation, that’s the equivalent of $75,000 today. For 15 years, Steve Plunkett turned his love of cars into the Fleetwood Country Cruize-In, an event that supported local charities and raised over $1.7 million. “Taking a passion that I love and creating an event that benefits so many people has been a blessing,” says Steve. The event attracted thousands of people and cars from across North America. When not at home on his estate on the outskirts of Byron, Steve tours invitational car events and shows across North America, showcasing his classic cars.
Serving Byron for 40 years
1255 Commissioners Rd W (corner of Boler and Commissioners) 519-471-3500
www.byronoptometry.com
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December 2024 Page 7
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