1932 Cadillac Series 452-B Sixteen Convertible Coupe

This Convertible Coupe, bodied by Fisher, represented the second series of the mighty V16 engine with 452 cubic-inches of displacement, hence its nomination as the '452B.' The year 1932 was considered to be the pinnacle of Classic Era styling; Harley Earl called it the 'greatest year in Caddilac design.' Careful examination shows there is barely a straight line anywhere on the body. Between 1930 and 1931, over 3,200 V16 Cadillacs were built, but in 1932, production dropped to 300.

This V16 Convertible Coupe is one of 14 built and maybe four remaining. It is unusual, as it was delivered to New York with a rear-mounted spare, stainless wire wheels, the radiator painted black to match the body, and no side mounts. Following a painstaking restoration, the car placed First in Class at the 1995 Pebble Beach Concours and was shown again for exhibit only in 2002.

This Cadillac was found by E.O. Franzen in 1959 in a Minnesota barn where it was in solid, complete but rough condition. As-found photos were published in February 1966 Self Starter.

In the late 1960s he sold it to Wayne Merriman where it remained untouched until it was bought by Ron Benach at the 1989 estate sale of Gif Oborne.

Benach employed Fran Roxas to do a complete restoration, helping it achieve its First in Class victory at the 1995 Pebble Beach Concours in the 16-cylinder class. It was again shown at the 16-cylinder class for exhibit in 2002.

In 2017, it was sold to John Groendyke, who in turn sold it at auction in 2021, where it was purchased by Hunter Classics.