Cadillac introduced its second-generation V-16 engine for 1938. More conventional in design than the original V-16, it featured a simple side-valve configuration packed in an unusual 135-degree bank angle. The new engine provided comparable horsepower and torque while weighing a remarkable 250 pounds less and being less costly to build than the previous V-16s. This represented an ideal situation, both for the enthusiasts who appreciated the V-16’s superb performance, and for Cadillac, who was facing decreasing sales as the United States was just starting on the road to recovery from the Great Depression.

The new Series 90 V-16 engine was mounted in a chassis of the same 141¼-inch wheelbase as the eight-cylinder Series 75, enabling the two series to share Fleetwood bodies. This allowed prices to be significantly reduced from previous years. Twelve Series 90 body styles were catalogued for 1938 and 1939, all with beautiful styling directed by Cadillac’s Chief Designer Bill Mitchell. The emerging young GM legend borrowed design cues from his very modern Series 60 Special for the Series 90 coachwork and presented the buying public with a stylish and traditional range of Series 90 vehicles.

This example, engine number 5270250, was one of just 10 convertible coupes built on the Series 90 V-16 chassis in 1938. Its original build sheet notes that it was originally painted Moleskin Gray, a color code that matches the paint code (number 6) shown on the original Fleetwood firewall tag. Originally sold in Rochester, New York, the Cadillac had made its way to Pennsylvania by the 1960s. It was found along the famous Pennsylvania Turnpike by early CCCA member Ted Johnson and was subsequently restored for him by the well-known George Holman of Massachusetts. Mr. Holman then purchased the car and traded it to the renowned collector Rick Carroll of Jensen Beach, Florida.

Refinished some time ago in an attractive bright red, the car shows typical wear from age and use, but it remains overall presentable. The brown leather interior shows wear around the edges from passengers’ arms but is intact and in overall good condition. The wood-grain on the dashboard is absolutely beautiful, and the varnish on the wooden door caps has a rich shine. The engine bay is clean and presentable, as is the underside of the car. The car has undergone a recent full service and features the following: all fluids flushed and changed, chassis fully greased and cleaned, new tires and tubes, rebuilt shock absorbers, new coil springs and rubber bushings in the front end, new brake hoses, rebuilt wheel cylinders, a refurbished radiator, new fuel tank, and carburetor service.

Renowned in the period for its smooth and effortless power, this Cadillac, one of the rarest of the late V-16s, makes a commanding statement of class and sophistication not often seen on the road today. This Full Classic is ready for the summer touring season and is an ideal CCCA CARavan car.