For Sale: 1931 Cadillac V12 in Saint Louis, Missouri

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/