Within 10 years of debuting its first V-8-powered cars in 1915, Cadillac had produced hundreds of thousands of them. While reliable, the V-8 engines were essentially two four-cylinder engines fused together utilizing a common flat crank. This design created an inherent imbalance unbecoming of one of the world’s top luxury automobiles.

To remedy this, Cadillac introduced a balanced, two-plane crankshaft counterweighted with rod journals at 90 degrees to one another. These new engines exhibited remarkable smoothness and developed more power. With the new engine came a new Cadillac, the Series 314, which borrowed its designation from the engine’s 314 cubic-inch displacement.

The new line featured a one-piece windshield, with closed-bodied cars possessing vertical “V-V” styled glass. The radiators were narrower, taller, and nickel-plated, with thermostatically controlled shutters. The sweeping front fenders housed battery and toolboxes and both front doors were now hinged at the windshield post. Series 314s were up to 250 pounds lighter and as much as $500 cheaper than the V-63 models they replaced.

Offered here is one of these innovative Cadillacs, presented in a stunning color scheme. The car comes from the collection of Bill Thomas, a third-generation Texan who built a sprawling vineyard and working ranch on more than 3,000 acres. This Fisher-bodied Imperial Seven-Passenger Sedan, one of the most exclusive automobiles of its day, joined his collection of over 100 vintage automobiles in 2004. A frame-off restoration, which reportedly included a full engine rebuild, is said to have started in 2016 and concluded in 2019.

The car wears a striking polychrome blue paint scheme over gray leather and fabric upholstery. White and blue, wooden “artillery” wheels are wrapped in wide whitewall tires. The nickel-plated radiator features color-matched blue shutters and a polished Herald hood ornament. The limousine-like rear seating area features folding jump seats and a folding footrest for the luxurious back seat. Touches such as a glass divider window and reading lamps complete the exclusive feel.

Wearing an older restoration in a stunning color scheme, this innovative Cadillac is sure to impress at any classic gathering.