For Sale: 1939 Cadillac V16 in Saint Louis, Missouri

By 1939, the American luxury motorcar had reached its final prewar pinnacle. While economic realities compelled most manufacturers to abandon multi-cylinder flagships, Cadillac and seldom other persisted. They continued refinement of their magnificent sixteen-cylinder automobile into its most sophisticated and modern form. The Series 90 V16 of 1938 to 1940 represented the ultimate evolution of Cadillac engineering during the Classic Era, combining advanced mechanical design with Harley Earl's dramatically streamlined styling.
Introduced in redesigned form for 1938, the final generation V16 featured a 431 cubic inch engine set at a 135-degree angle, producing 185 horsepower with remarkable smoothness and silence. Hydraulic brakes, independent front suspension, and careful chassis refinement endowed the car with composure and drivability that rivaled the finest automobiles in the world. Production was extremely limited, and by 1939 only a handful of examples were completed, making surviving cars exceptionally rare.
This 1939 Cadillac V16 Formal Town Car by Fleetwood is one of just five built for the model year. As a true formal design, it represents one of the rarest and most dignified body styles offered on the V16 chassis. The sharply defined roofline, division window, and separate chauffeur's compartment speak to a clientele for whom ceremony and discretion were paramount.
According to the car's factory three-page build sheet, its shipment was documented on March 21, 1939, to the Cadillac Motor Car Division of General Motors Sales Corporation, Oshawa Branch, for delivery in Canada. The documentation confirms its original black exterior finish and remarkably complete formal specification. Its early history includes ownership in Quebec under Louis Gravel of Westmount, later R. Aubin, and participation in Classic Car Club of America activities in the 1960s, supported by period photographs. The car was subsequently offered by Kruse Auctioneers in Auburn, Indiana, in 1995 before returning to California, where it entered the ownership of General William Lyon in 2002. Under General Lyon's stewardship, the Cadillac was shown at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in 2004, and the 2019 La Jolla Concours d'Elegance, where it was awarded First in Class. The chain of custody reflects longstanding recognition among serious collectors of Full Classic automobiles.
Prior to General Lyon's acquisition, the car was described in period auction literature as having received a body off restoration to 100 point condition. It was also noted as a winner of the Most Elegant Automobile Award at the Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance. While specific restoration records are not presently detailed, the car's current presentation supports the claim of comprehensive restoration. The quality of finish, fit, and detailing throughout reflects a high standard of workmanship consistent with top level concours preparation.
Finished in black, as documented on its factory build sheet, the presentation is commanding yet restrained. The paintwork displays exceptional depth and uniformity, complementing the sweeping fenders, covered side mount spares, and imposing grille. Brightwork is outstanding, from the massive radiator shell to the delicate trim accents. The overall impression is one of quiet authority and ultimate 1930s luxury.
The chauffeur's compartment is trimmed in black, while the rear passenger compartment is appointed in gray wool broadcloth, also consistent with factory specification. Interior woodwork and hardware are beautifully finished, and the division window operates as intended. Notably, the car retains its factory installed rear bar cabinet, described in the original documentation as featuring bleached walnut shelving, smoked glass upper compartments, plush lined cabinetry, chrome retaining straps for decanters, and dedicated storage for glassware. The bar remains complete with its crystal decanter. Additional factory equipment included front and rear seat radios, ventilating heater and rear heater, sheepskin rugs, umbrella provision, automatic battery filler, windshield washer, and carefully designed cigarette and cigar compartments, including storage sized for a tin of fifty cigarettes. Such comprehensive appointments firmly establish this Town Car as a no expense spared formal commission.
Under the bonnet resides its numbers matching 185 horsepower V16 engine, numbered 5290107. The engine bay is presented in outstanding condition, orderly and properly detailed, reflecting knowledgeable stewardship. On the road, the car performs precisely as a late Cadillac V16 should. Power delivery is turbine smooth and nearly imperceptible, the chassis substantial and composed, and the overall experience serene. Few automobiles deliver motion with such quiet authority.
As one of only five 1939 Fleetwood Formal Town Cars built on the final generation V16 chassis, Gen. Lyon's V16 represents both the end of an era and one of the ultimate expressions of American luxury engineering. Presented in exceptional condition, retaining its original formal appointments, supported by factory documentation, concours accolades, and a clear ownership history, it stands as a significant and highly refined example of Cadillac's most ambitious motorcar.


Offers welcome and trades considered.