1936 Cadillac Series 85 Convertible Sedan

As America's Great Depression continued, the luxury automobile market dwindled, yet Cadillac offered three distinct series: the V-8, V-12, and V-16. In 1936, the performance of the V-12 motor was greatly improved over its 1935 counterpart. The 368 cubic-inch motor developed 150 horsepower. It was placed in a 138-inch wheelbase chassis for the 36-85 series, which included this convertible sedan, built in the Fleetwood custom shops. A total of 15 different body styles were available with the V-12 motor in 1936. The total production of all V-12s was 901.

The 85 Series was downplayed by Cadillac, though under its hood is Cadillac's magnificent V-12 engine, a smaller version of the Cadillac V-16 introduced in 1930 and hallmarked as great in design in not only its mechanics but its appearance. The V-12 was developed for the 1931 model year and offered as a companion to Cadillac's V-16 and V-8 models. The V-12 engine is a 368 cubic-inch, 45-degree, overhead valve with hydraulic valve silencers, and is rated at 150 horsepower. 1937 would be the last year for the Cadillac V-12 and 1940 would be the last year for the V-16.

The Convertible Sedan Coachwork is one of 44 produced. This car was driven 4,300 miles on a cross-country trip across the United States in 2013. It is recognized as a Full Classic by the Classic Car Club of America and is both a CCCA and AACA Senior award winner.