Series 370. 135 bhp, 368 cu. in. overhead valve V-12 engine, three-speed manual transmission, solid front axle and live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 140 in.

• Equipped with the desirable V-12 OHV engine

• An ideal and affordable entry into the CCCA

• Highly presentable older restoration

At first glance, it seems foolhardy to have launched a twelve-cylinder car during the deepening Depression. Cadillac’s case appears especially reckless, for GM’s premier division introduced not only a V-12 but also a V-16 within months of one another. The V-12 was basically the V-16 with four cylinders eliminated. This resulted in 368 cubic inches from the 45 degree block, and like the sixteen, it ran quietly, a benefit of hydraulic valve lifters.

The twelve sold well, too, but at the expense of the sixteen. From September 1930, sales of the sixteen hit the skids, and the fact that the equivalent twelve was priced $2,500 lower certainly had something to do with it. Moreover, wheelbase aside, the cars looked very much alike, so the image of a V-12 seemed a much better bargain. In any case, both the twelve and the sixteen remained in the catalogue, side by side with the more popular V-8 models, through 1937.

The handsome V-12 limousine offered here is described by its current owner and collector car enthusiast as a solid example that is in very good condition, given the age of the restoration performed over two decades ago. The grey cloth upholstery displays quite well, with minor wear commensurate with its age. The engine and bay show signs of road use, as does the underbody. The paintwork has some imperfections, mostly in the higher stress areas from years of enjoyment. It is equipped with dual side-mount spares, twin windshield wipers, and a metal rear-mounted color matched trunk that is ideal for extended CCCA tours and events. Overall, this Fleetwood bodied limousine is a very presentable car, finished in a handsome color scheme and in ready to enjoy condition. It would make for an excellent entry into the classic car world, providing ample power coupled with stately good looks and ease of operation.