Vehicle Description
For much of Cadillac's early history, "The Standard of the World"
was more than just a marketing slogan; it was a commitment to
excellence. From its inception, Cadillac dedicated itself to
producing highly innovative motorcars of exceptional quality. By
the 1930s, with their V8 and entry-level LaSalle models enjoying
robust sales, Cadillac was brimming with confidence. It was time to
showcase their capabilities to the world. At the 1930 New York Auto
Show, Cadillac stunned the automotive world with the introduction
of a revolutionary overhead-valve V16 engine. Not content with just
the V16, Cadillac soon unveiled an all-new V12 engine, both
designed by engineer Owen Nacker. Sharing a common layout and
numerous internal components, the V16 and V12 engines represented
the pinnacle of automotive engineering. The V16 garnered headlines
with its 175 horsepower output, yet the V12 was equally impressive
with 135 horsepower. While the V16 was the flagship, the Model 370
V12 offered advantages such as better handling and drivability due
to its lighter weight. Moreover, it was significantly more
affordable at $3,795, nearly $2,000 less than the V16-a substantial
saving, almost equivalent to the cost of a new LaSalle. Custom and
semi-custom coachwork were provided by Fisher and Fleetwood, with
styling courtesy of Harley Earl, who had previously found success
with LaSalle. The luxurious and versatile V12 sold strongly, with
5,733 units sold in its first full model year of 1931. However, the
economic realities of the time led to a steady decline in V12 sales
throughout its six-year production run. The featured Cadillac
Series 370A showcases Fleetwood-built coachwork atop a 140"
wheelbase chassis and is the product of an older restoration. It is
finished in a lovely cream and black color scheme, complemented by
a black canvas top and matching cream wire spoke wheels fitted with
wide whitewall tires. This twelve-cylinder Cadillac is outfitted
with numerous standard features as well as period accessories,
including a flying goddess mascot, dual side-mounted spares with
color-keyed covers, dual chrome driving lights, a trunk rack, a
stainless radiator stone guard, dual chrome trumpet horns, heater,
and a golf bag door. The car also comes with extensive
documentation, including photos and records of the restoration
process, service receipts, build sheet, tools, service manuals,
accessory trunk and a FIVA identification card. The older
restoration has been meticulously maintained and has aged
gracefully, acquiring an inviting patina. The paintwork and body
alignment are in excellent condition, reflecting the high level of
restoration. The brightwork remains in fine condition, displaying
light polish marks from years of careful upkeep. Inside, the black
leather, walnut interior trim, and machined dash complement the
exterior paintwork beautifully and remain in excellent condition,
exuding an honest, usable character since the restoration. Correct
Jaeger instruments are in fine order, alongside restored original
switchgear and controls. The matching upholstery on the rumble seat
shows little sign of use. Roll-up glass side windows make this
convertible coupe practical for all-weather touring, while still
offering the full open-air motoring experience. This Cadillac
retains its original numbers-matching engine, as confirmed by the
build records, and lives up to the high standards set by its
designers. Owen Nacker envisioned the overhead-valve V12 engine to
be visually stunning as well as unrivaled in performance and
refinement. Nacker and Harley Earl collaborated on the aesthetics,
concealing wiring and plumbing beneath enameled covers for a clean,
uncluttered appearance. This car's V12 is presented beautifully in
proper black porcelain enamel, in excellent condition with some
signs of use, appropriate for a tour-ready example. During the
restoration, the car was also upgraded with dual downdraft
carburetors, replacing the original, and often problematic updraft
carbs. Powerful, exceptionally refined, and aesthetically
magnificent, the Cadillac Series 370 V12 stands as an icon of
Classic Era American automobiles. This finely restored example is
perfect for CCCA CARavan tours, Cadillac LaSalle Club events, or
leisurely, silent drives along your favorite roads. It has
benefitted from years of enthusiastic care and is now ready for its
next caretaker to carry the torch forward. Offers welcome and
trades considered For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7717-1931-cadillac-v12-convertible-coupe/
