1938 | Cadillac V-16

1938 Cadillac V16 Coupe Series 90
Chassis number: 702748
Registration Number: H1087BBB (Spain Historic)
On January 4, 1930, Cadillac introduced a new top of the line automobile at the New York Auto Show with the introduction of its breathtaking new V-16. With this first V16 proposed in series production automobile, Cadillac instantly reached the head of the luxury class in one brilliant step. Until then, only Bugatti had produced a 16-cylinder engine, which was accomplished by bolting two eight-cylinder inline engines together an innovation that was originally intended for aircraft use.
Development on this multi-cylinder automobile commenced in 1926 and the work was carried out in strict secrecy. This was the first series automobile in the world to be built with a V16 engine. The virtually silent engine and the exclusive bodies generally produced by Fisher or Fleetwood made the Cadillac V16 one of the most exclusive cars in the world until production came to an end in December 1939.
All Cadillac V16 automobiles were built to individual specifications in accordance with the requirements of the customers. A total of just 4.076 units rolled off the production line at the factory.
A new V16 engine was launched in 1938 with slightly less displacement and cylinder angle of 135 degree instead of 45°. The output generated was approximately 185 hp. The car shown is powered by an engine of this type and is fitted with a rare coupe body ny Fleetwood. The V16 displacement is 7.063 cc.
These Fleetwood Coupes are incedibly rare with just 8 ever produced & this one being number 6 of them. It has resided in a prominent Spanish collection for decades whilst being maintained without regard to expense & regularly if sparingly used. The car has also been shown at the 2010 Villa D'Este Concours D'Elegance by way of a stamp of approval.
The car is in superb order thoughout with excellent paint & a new pale leather interior again in fine order. Make no mistake this is an enourmous car but the stylists at fleetwood have done an excellent job of hiding the cars true size. as it appears smaller then it actually is. The interior has a trypical late 1930's feel to it with the gear change being of the column variety & very light power steering. Dual side mount spares are fitted to the running boards giving an imposing frontal appearance.
Mechanically the car runs beautifully with a stong silent engine. These V16 units are uncannily smooth & refined beyond measure. It makes for a fantastic pre war Grand Touring car.
This is a car that wants for nothing & is of historical importance backed up by the fact that it was invited as a particpant at the Villa D' Este Concours d'Elegance.
Viewings are by appointment just North of Barcelona. We can collect ship this car worldwide to any address.