Vehicle Description
For most of Cadillac's early history,The Standard of the Worldwas
more than merely a marketing slogan used to sell cars. From its
earliest days, the company went to great lengths to live up to that
claim by building highly innovative motorcars of exceptional
quality. In the 1930s, Cadillac's V8 and entry-level LaSalle models
were selling well, and confidence was high. Cadillac decided the
time was right to show the world precisely what they could do. At
the 1930 New York Auto Show, they shocked the motoring world with
the introduction of a ground-breaking overhead-valve V16 engine. As
if that weren't enough, Cadillac followed up with an all-new V12.
Both engines were designed simultaneously by engineer Owen Nacker,
and they shared a common layout and many internal components. The
V16 stole the headlines with its 175 horsepower output, yet the V12
was still highly competitive at 135 horsepower. While the sixteen
served as the undisputed flagship, the Model 370 V12 held certain
advantages over its big brother. For one, it was lighter and
offered better handling and drivability for the owner/driver. The
twelve was cost significantly less than its sixteen cylinder
sibling. At $3,795, it was $2,000 less than a comparable sixteen -
the difference almost equal to the price of a new LaSalle. Custom
and semi-custom coachwork were offered through Fisher and
Fleetwood, with styling courtesy of Harley Earl, following up on
his success at LaSalle. The luxurious and versatile V12 was a
strong seller, with 5,733 sold in its first full model year of
1931. However, a new economic reality meant that sales of the V12
fell steadily throughout its six year production run. Wearing
highly desirable Convertible Coupe coachwork by Fleetwood atop a
140" wheelbase chassis, this 1931 Cadillac 370A V12 is the subject
of a no-expense-spared restoration with absolutely stunning
results. Finished elegantly in dark green with black feature lines
and fenders, it is a truly gorgeous example of Cadillac's
multi-cylinder masterpiece. The Fleetwood-built convertible coupe
coachwork suited the sportsman of the era, with its rumble seat and
golf doors. The body is believed to have started life on a V8
model, and fitted to this V12 chassis before restoration. Green
painted wheels with polished stainless steel spokes, and
wide-whitewall tires round out the appropriately sporty visuals.
The concours-quality restoration is exemplary and appears fresh
both inside and out since its completion just a few years ago.
Paint quality is excellent, and the extensive exterior brightwork
has been treated to the same level of attention. Accessories
include a stainless radiator stone guard, dual chrome trumpet
horns, goddess radiator mascot, dual side mount spares, and a
luggage rack. Gorgeous tan leather, carpets, and woodwork are
highlights of the luxurious two-seat cockpit. Contrasting the
exquisitely stitched leather seats and door panels is a bright
alloy instrument panel and richly restored woodwork. Occasional
passengers ride in the rumble seat, which features the same
beautiful tan leather as the cabin. Compared to the Fleetwood
roadster, the Convertible Coupe offers a similarly sporting style
but with the benefit of additional weather protection from the
lined soft-top and roll-up side windows. With that added comfort
and insulation from the elements, the convertible coupe is a
fabulous choice for touring; sporty yet comfortable for a variety
of weather conditions. Cadillac's exquisite 368 cubic-inch, OHV V12
engine delivers a healthy 135 horsepower with sublime refinement.
The distinct ribbed valve covers and black-enamel finishes are
courtesy of Harley Earl, marking one of the first occasions of a
stylist influencing engine design. For the touring enthusiast, the
V12's lighter weight over the front axle translates into a superior
driving experience compared with the sixteen. As with the rest of
this superb Cadillac, the engine is beautifully detailed, showing
slight signs of use since the restoration. Four-wheel brakes, a
smooth-shifting synchronized transmission, and hydraulic shock
absorbers make it an absolute delight to drive, while the powerful
and refined twelve-cylinder engine affords respectable performance
in modern traffic. Beautifully finished and ready for enjoyment,
this gorgeous Cadillac is suitable for display in virtually any
concours at home or abroad. Similarly, the exquisite looks are
backed with outstanding performance, making this car a welcome
participant in CCCA CARavan tours or Cadillac-LaSalle Club events.
With elegant style and performance to match, this 370A Convertible
Coupe is a truly outstanding example, fresh and suitable for the
show field or open road. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6817-1931-cadillac-v12-convertible-coupe/
