The Cadillac Model 30 proved to be a hugely significant step forward for the Detroit automaker, especially following the introduction of the electric starter for 1912. Although the model would be replaced for 1915, improvements continued to arrive right until the end: Cars like this 1914 Model 30 Five-Passenger Touring kept the same 365.8-cubic-inch L-head inline-four engine and three-speed gearbox, but they gained a two-speed rear axle—a feature that substantially increased the Model 30’s higher-speed touring capability.

According to a copy of the Cadillac build record on file, this car was shipped on 28 March 1914 to a dealership in Springfield, Massachusetts. Its fate afterward is unknown, but when it was acquired by the consignor out of long-term storage over 20 years ago, it was missing the rear half of its body!

Fortunately, a total restoration of followed, returning the car to the state in which it is presented today. Photos on file show the car stripped to its chassis; mechanical components were rebuilt, and brightwork—including the engine’s copper water jackets—polished to a mirror finish. The rear of the body was painstakingly reconstructed, and the coachwork was then painted in maroon and black with red pinstripe accents. Black interior upholstery and a black convertible top contribute to the handsome overall appearance.

Period-correct features include a Warner Auto-Meter speedometer in the cabin, as well as a Cadillac-branded Boyce Motometer mounted atop the radiator. Nickel-plated brass finishes, representing an interesting transition between traditional brass brightwork and the chrome that would follow, gleam from the electric headlamps and cowl lights. The hinged steering wheel, a feature added for 1914, makes for easier driver ingress and egress.

The Cadillac Model 30 was designed with the expectations of an increasingly mobile America in mind. This is underscored by the fact that, in addition to the new-for-1914 two-speed rear axle, the formerly optional engine-driven air compressor tucked underhood—useful for inflating tires by the roadside in a pinch—had become standard equipment. This restored 1914 Five-Passenger Touring would still make for an excellent touring companion today, enabling its next owner to enjoy scenic byways in open-top style.