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1912 Cadillac Model 30 Torpedo

  • Chassis Number: 42981
  • Engine Number: 67561
In 1905, Cadillac introduced its first multi-cylinder model - a 4-cylinder unit. The 4-cylinder engine became even more refined in 1909 with the introduction of the 30-horsepower Model 30. The Model 30 still had much of the distinctive engineering from the single-cylinder engine, such as the copper water-jackets and unique carburetor.

The Cadillac 4-cylinder model was gradually upgraded each successive year after its introduction. The engine's displacement was increased and the car became more refined throughout. In 1912, a big innovation was introduced - the self-starting system, a first for a production car.

Pioneered by legendary automotive engineer Charles Kettering, the idea was put into motion after the death of a good friend of Mr. Kettering, caused by a starting handle injury. Kettering's innovation combined the generator and starter into one unit, and proved highly effective. The partnership between Kettering and Cadillac resulted in a crucially important milestone in automotive history. These 1912 models were distinguished by a box on the running board, neatly housing the batteries and electrical equipment.

Along with the self-starter, 1912 also saw the introduction of a variety of new coachwork designs, such as the sporting open Torpedo Touring version.

This Example
This example has been given a complete restoration both mechanically and cosmetically. Since restoration, the car has received multiple awards at the New Port Concours D'Elegance and was selected to be exhibited at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum as part of their exhibition of landmark American automobiles.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2013

2013 Bonhams - Quail Lodge Auction

Sale Price :
USD $78,100

1912 Cadillac Model 30 Auction Sales

Recent Sales of the Cadillac Model 30

(Data based on Model Year 1912 sales)
1912 Cadillac Model 30 Five-Passenger Touring
Chassis#: 37206
Sold for USD$61,600
  2019 RM Sothebys : The Guyton Collection
 
1912 Cadillac Model 30 Four-Passenger Touring
Sold for USD$36,300
  2017 Worldwide Auctioneers: Texas Classic Auction
 
1912 Cadillac Five-Passenger Touring
Chassis#: 39039
Sold for USD$88,000
  2016 RM Sotheby's : Hershey
1912 Cadillac Model 30 image  1912 Cadillac Model 30 image  
1912 Cadillac Five-Passenger Touring
Chassis#: 43397
Sold for USD$55,000
  2015 RM Sotheby's Hershey Auction
1912 Cadillac Model 30 image  1912 Cadillac Model 30 image  
1912 Cadillac Torpedo Touring
Chassis#: 42981
Sold for USD$78,100
  2013 Bonhams - Quail Lodge Auction
1912 Cadillac Model 30 image  1912 Cadillac Model 30 image  
1912 Cadillac Model 30 Four-Passenger Touring
Sold for USD$46,200
  2010 Worldwide Auctioneers - The Houston Classic Weekend
 
1912 Cadillac Speedster
Chassis#: 52266
Sold for USD$56,100
  2007 RM Auctions - The Al Wiseman Collection
 
1912 Cadillac Model 30 Touring Car
Sold for USD$29,900
  2004 Bonhams - MOTOR CARS
 

Cadillac Model 30s That Failed To Sell At Auction

1912 Cadillac Model 30's that have appeared at auction but did not sell.
VehicleChassisEventHigh BidEst. LowEst. High

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1912 Cadillac Model 30

Additional valuation insight and sales data
History
Specifications
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Other Cadillac Model 30 model years

1912 Cadillac Model 30 Vehicle Profiles

1912 Cadillac Model 30 vehicle information
Touring
Chassis #: 43397
Engine #: 69195
1912 Cadillac Model 30 vehicle information
Torpedo
Chassis #: 42981
Engine #: 67561
1912 Cadillac Model 30 vehicle information
Touring
Chassis #: 39039
Engine #: 64594