From its beginnings in 1903, the Cadillac Motor Car Company has maintained throughout the world its reputation as an automotive builder of the highest quality. Cadillac ads proclaimed the marque as the “Standard of the World,” and the company rightfully established itself as one of the industry’s leading luxury car manufacturers. The first Cadillacs were the brainchild of Henry Leland, a perfectionist, whose endeavor was to produce a car second to none.

July 1925 marked the introduction of the Series 314 for the 1926 model year. This was the first in a long line of Cadillacs that derived their model name from the cubic inch displacement of the engine. Chassis weight was reduced by 250 pounds as was a redesigned V-8 engine that was 150 pounds lighter yet more powerful with horsepower increasing from 80 to 87. The chassis also came in two lengths – Standard at 132 inches and Custom at 138 inches.

Equipped with its 85 hp 314-cu. in. V-8 engine, three-speed manual transmission, and four-wheel brakes, this car is ready to both show and tour. The open phaeton coachwork combines with a rear-mounted trunk and single spare to give this Cadillac a sporty look. The light and medium green two-tone exterior features twin-beam drum headlights, front and rear bumpers, wooden artillery wheels, and a tan convertible top complete with side curtains. Inside are deep green carpets which contrast nicely with the tan upholstery and wood steering wheel.

This car has been the recipient of a proper ground-up restoration as attested to by its previous Classic Car Club of America First Place and Senior National Awards. Cadillac ads in 1926 asked, “Think of a car about which you do not even have to think – of a car you can buy with confidence and a certainty that does not admit of a single second’s doubt. Is there any other element of motor car ownership which even remotely compares with this solid conviction of value and performance which you feel about the Cadillac?”

The same can be said of this lovely Series 314 Custom Phaeton nearly 90 years later.