Vehicle Description
Hot on the heels of the game-changing V16 of 1930, Cadillac
delivered the second blow in its one-two punch against its rivals
in the luxury car market. The twelve-cylinder Series 370 added
another layer to Cadillac's already impressive lineup, bridging the
gap between the V8 and the flagship Series 452 V16. Named for its
displacement in cubic inches, the Series 370 V12 engine was derived
directly from the V16 and shared the same overhead-valve layout,
and it delivered impressive power output and refinement in a
lighter-weight package versus the sixteen. As with all Cadillacs of
the period, the Series 370 featured a variety of coachwork options,
with the vast majority coming from GM-owned Fisher or Fleetwood,
and the styles ran the gamut between formal and sporty, with the
majority of the "multi-cylinder" models getting closed sedan or
limousine coachwork. Sporting handsome Fisher-built coachwork, this
Cadillac Series 370B is one of just 1,709 twelve-cylinder models
produced in 1932. According to the factory build sheet, this
example is a genuine Fisher-bodied rumble-seat convertible coupe,
delivered new to Canton, Ohio. Today, it presents with a
well-maintained older restoration, finished in an attractive
two-tone maroon color scheme, highlighted by bright red wheels and
coach lines. Fittingly for a twelve-cylinder Cadillac, it is
equipped with many period accessories, including a goddess mascot,
chrome headlamps, optional chrome hood vent doors, a search lamp,
and a golf bag door below the rumble seat. Setting this car apart
from most is the single rear-mounted spare wheel and optional rear
protection bumper bar, noted on the original order sheet. The lack
of side-mounts allows for a clean, uncluttered profile,
accentuating the flowing fenders designed by Harley Earl. The
rear-mounted spare adds visual length and highlights the graceful
proportions. The older restoration has been very well-maintained
and has matured lightly, gaining an inviting character. The
paintwork is excellent, and body alignment consistent, both aspects
pointing to a high-level restoration when it was done. Brightwork
is in similarly fine condition, displaying some light polish marks
after years of care. The subtle two-tone color scheme suits the
elegant Fisher-built body, and bright red coach stripes and
matching wheels with new black-wall tires give the car a subtly
aggressive and sporty personality. Light tan leather trim accents
the maroon paintwork to good effect, and it is in excellent
condition, having taken on an honest, usable character since the
restoration. Correct Jaeger instruments are in fine order, along
with restored original switchgear and controls. Matching upholstery
carries over on the rumble seat, which shows little signs of use.
Roll-up glass side windows make this convertible coupe a practical
and attractive proposition for all-weather touring, while still
giving the option of the full open-air motoring experience. A
recently-fitted black canvas convertible top ties it all together
with superb effect. This example retains its original
numbers-matching engine per the build records, and it lives up to
the standard set by the designers. Owen Nacker envisioned the
overhead-valve V12 engine to be visually beautiful as well
unrivaled in its performance and refinement. Nacker and Harley Earl
worked together on the aesthetics, hiding the wiring and plumbing
beneath enameled covers for a crisp and uncluttered appearance.
This car's V12 is beautifully presented in the proper black
porcelain enamel, which is in excellent condition. There are some
signs of use, but the overall presentation is authentic,
well-detailed, and appropriate for a tour-ready example. Powerful,
exceptionally refined, and beautiful-looking, the Cadillac Series
370 V12 is an icon of Classic Era American automobiles. This finely
restored example is an ideal selection for CCCA CARavan tours,
Cadillac LaSalle Club events, or to casually and silently motor
along your favorite roads. It has benefitted from many years of
enthusiastic care, and it is now ready for its next caretaker to
carry the torch. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6776-1932-cadillac-v12-convertible-coupe/