Cadillac’s first and only production twelve-cylinder model spanned seven years. The Series 370-A debuted in 1931 to compete against similar offerings from Auburn, Hispano-Suiza, Packard, Pierce-Arrow, Lincoln, and others. Truly luxurious in every way, Cadillac’s V-12s sat between the standard V-8s and range-topping V-16s, with semi-custom bodies by Fisher and Fleetwood on 140- and 143-inch wheelbases. The 368 cubic-inch V-12 engine was essentially a truncated version of Cadillac’s overhead-valve V-16. Output at launch was rated at 135 horsepower—40 horsepower less than the V-16—and would increase to 150 horsepower in 1935.

Cadillac updated subsequent models, designated Series 370-B through 370-E. Notable changes included introducing a new chassis and other mechanical advancements on the Series 370-D of 1934, while “Turret top” closed-roof Fisher bodies debuted on the Series 370-E the following year. In 1936, Cadillac renamed its V-12 models the Series 80 and 85, shortening the wheelbase and offering Fleetwood turret-top bodies almost exclusively. In total, Cadillac produced fewer than 11,000 twelve-cylinder models over the seven-year production run, with 1,740 of those being 370-B models like the one offered here.

This beautifully preserved 1932 V-12 Special Phaeton is believed to be one of as few as 13 Special Phaetons built for 1932. A copy of its factory build sheet confirms the original body and chassis number, which correspond to those present on the vehicle. The rich Ravenswood Brown seen throughout the stunning Fisher bodywork is also consistent with the original color scheme listed on the build sheet, as are the wire wheels, Goddess ornament, and dual side-mounted spares with color-coordinated covers. A tan canvas top protects the sumptuous interior lined in saddle brown leather.

Delivered in March of 1932 to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this Cadillac V-12 benefits from an older restoration and is believed to have had only three owners since the 1960s, including Milford “Tiny” Gould of Trucksville, Pennsylvania. Under his care, this Special Phaeton earned the Classic Car Club of America National First Prize at Buck Hill Falls, Pennsylvania in January 1965. The car also won Junior and Senior Antique Automobile Club of American first prizes. Gould eventually sold the car to another Pennsylvania collector.

The consignor then acquired the Special Phaeton in 1993 and has held onto it for the past three decades, always ensuring that it has been well cared for and maintained. Work completed under current ownership is said to have included an engine rebuild, replacing all six tires, reupholstering the interior, and replacing the side curtains.

Now offered in very presentable condition with a correct-type replacement engine paired with a three-speed manual transmission, this lovely and rare Cadillac V-12 Sport Phaeton is eligible for any number of events and tours as a CCCA Full Classic.