Vehicle Description
By 1917, Cadillac had already established itself as a leader in
innovation and quality. Cadillac's founder Henry Leland was a true
pioneer of American industry and a champion for mass produced,
precision machine manufacturing. Cadillac's breakthrough of the
electric Self-Starter system and electric lights in 1912 were
largely responsible for cementing the internal combustion
automobile's dominance over electric and steam. Three years later,
they introduced another significant innovation - the world's first
mass-produced V8 engine. The L-head engine was designed by the
Scottish born engineer D. McCall White and featured two cast iron
cylinder blocks with integral heads mounted atop an aluminum-copper
alloy crankcase. It was an ingenious design that utilized fork and
blade connecting rods to provide clearance for opposing cylinders
as well as dual water pumps when most cars made do with simple,
inefficient thermo-syphoning cooling systems. The engine produced
an impressive 70 horsepower and was a marvel of smooth running and
linear power delivery. There was even an optional Kellogg auxiliary
air compressor which could be used to inflate tires in the event of
a puncture. With continual refinement, it was this V8 engine that
truly put Cadillac at the top of its market segment, proudly
supporting their bold motto - The Standard of the World. Handsome
and imposing, this 1917 Cadillac Model 57 Opera Coupe is one of our
personal favorites. Three-passenger Opera Coupe bodywork is a
lovely formal style that is rarely seen today. It is quickly
distinguished by its dual oval rear windows and tall, upright
proportion. This wonderful example wears its older restoration
well, with Cadillac Blue main body subtly offset by black fenders
and black leather topping. Panel fit and paint finish quality is
excellent and in keeping with the original high level of build
quality these cars were famous for. It rides on a set of wooden
spoke artillery wheels wrapped in black wall tires that help
enhance the imposing, almost sporting appearance. A rear mounted
spare wheel keeps the body lines clean and uncluttered, while
adding visual length. The nickel detailing is in excellent order
and provides a touch of bright flash. An interesting feature of
this body is the fact that the central B-pillar can be removed with
thumb screws that transform this formal elegant body into one of
the earliest iterations of the "pillarless coupe". Rather
interestingly, the driver sits alone up front with accommodations
for two passengers on the rear bench seat. A folding jump seat sits
in the front footwell for the occasional fourth occupant inside,
while a leather-trimmed rumble seat is reserved for two additional
very occasional passengers. The "Fat Man Wheel" folds out of the
way to allow the gentleman of ample girth to climb aboard without
the possibility of embarrassing himself in front of female
companions. Seats, interior panels and door cards are all trimmed
in period correct Bedford cord to a high standard. Trim, carpets
and interior fittings are in excellent order throughout. Original
instrumentation includes speedometer, fuel pressure gauge and
ammeter while a Moto-Meter atop the radiator keeps watch on engine
temps. An interesting feature is the mechanically dipped headlights
which work through a system of rods and linkages attached to the
headlight reflectors, all operated via a lever on the steering
column. It just goes to demonstrate the level of thoughtful design
that Cadillac was famous for. By 1917, D. McCall White's
masterpiece V8 engine had received some important upgrades. Lighter
weight pistons were introduced, improving efficiency and
drivability while improvements to the 3-speed transmission made for
smoother and more reliable operation. Our example presents very
well, with correct finishes, fittings and wiring. It is a strong
running example that is ideally suited for touring with the CCCA or
other nickel-era clubs, thanks in no small part to the powerful and
smooth engine and very well restored chassis and running gear. The
Cadillac Model 57 is a very significant part of the history of the
automobile. It was a Model 57 that, in 2014, was the very first
vehicle to be named to the HVA's National Historic Vehicle
Register, shining new light on these robust, beautiful and
important cars. Our example is sure to please thanks to its
excellent, restored condition and well-sorted mechanical nature. We
are very pleased to offer this fantastic Cadillac and we hope you
get as much joy from it as we do.
