Arguably America’s most opulent and exclusive manufacturer, Cadillac debuted its V-12 engine in 1930, just in time for the onset of the Depression. Targeted directly at American royalty, the ultra-exclusive V-12 engine was reported as being identical to Cadillac’s V-16 except for having four less cylinders. The 368-cubic-inch engine had overhead valves, four main bearings, mechanical valve lifters with hydraulic silencers, and was fed by a single-barrel Dual Detroit carburetor. The setup was claimed to produce 150 horsepower at 3,600 rpm. All V-12s were equipped with a Selective Synchromesh three-speed transmission fitted with a single-disc clutch and hydraulic brakes on all four wheels.

Determined to match the state-of-the-art engineering of Cadillac’s chassis, designers refused to compromise on the grandiose quality of custom bodies during the Depression. Of all the custom coachbuilders who built on Cadillac chassis, none is more closely entwined with its history than Fleetwood. The V-12 Cadillacs of 1936 were offered in two different wheelbases: 138 inches for the larger 85 models and 131 inches for the model 80s. The headlights were repositioned on the radiator shell and the parking lights were moved inside the headlights. The new fender designs incorporated a crease along their center line.

Fleetwood was well known for its team of craftsmen who built warm interior environments with hundreds of upholstery options and rich wood finishes. The Depression sadly kept sales of these overengineered masterpieces low, with just over 900 V-12 cars being built in 1936. The following year, sales had fallen so significantly that Cadillac was forced to end production of the mighty V-12.

One of these cars, wearing a desirable Fleetwood Series 80 five-passenger Convertible Sedan body, is presented here. Said to have been the recipient of a full restoration years ago, the car is presented in deep blue over dark tan leather upholstery with a tan fabric soft-top. This Fleetwood is well appointed with many desirable options, including dual fender-mounted spare tires with covers and rearview mirrors, bumper-mounted driving lights, and Cadillac’s Goddess hood ornament.

A gorgeous, body-color Art Deco dash holds a clock and speedometer as well as optional heater and radio. Mounted below the dash is a period Cadillac-branded Motor Car Radio speaker. The venerated 368-cubic-inch V-12 presents well in black with fluted valve covers. Its power meets the road via wide whitewall tires mounted to 16-inch disc wheels wearing polished full covers.

A well preserved, previously restored example of the height of Art Deco American luxury, this CCCA Full Classic is sure to command attention whether at shows or any number of vintage road rallies.