1938 Cadillac Series 90 Imperial Sedan

Cadillac unveiled their overhead valve V16 engine in 1930 which solidified the slogan, 'The Standard of the World.' When introduced it was a marvel, but by 1938 it had become too expensive to produce and far too bulky to remain in production. So Cadillac engineers came up with a solution; they created a new flathead engine with a much lower profile based on the original V16 unit. It cost less to produce, displaced 431 cubic inches and produced 185 horsepower. It was basically a twin-eight engine with dual carburetors, manifolds, distributors, coils, fuel pumps and water pumps as well as dual oil bath air cleaners.

In 2008 it was brought to the Automobiles of Amelia presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $250,000 - $350,000. It was not surprising to see the winning bid far exceed the estimates, settling at $412,500 including the buyer's premium. It is a gorgeous car that is a top contender at nearly every event it attends.

Ninety-five customers chose the Imperial Seven-passenger sedan as their choice of body style for the V16 Cadillac. They rode on a wheelbase that measured 141.3 inches and had a three-speed column-shifted manual gearbox and duo-servo Bendix four-wheel hydraulic brakes.

This example has never been restored, just carefully maintained throughout its life. The original black paint has been touched up where needed. Chrome has been replaced in certain places. It retains its wide whitewall tires and dual side-mount spares. The interior features wood trim, tan broadcloth material in the passenger compartment, and black leather in the driver's area.

The engine was rebuilt by RM Auto Restorations.

One of Canada's wealthiest families, the Billes of Canadian Tire fame, once owned this Imperial Sedan. Subsequent owners have preserved the car's patina and kept it in mostly-original condition, a rarity as most have been restored at least once during their lifetime.

In 2008 it was brought to the Automobiles of Amelia presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $60,000 - $80,000. It was offered without reserve which worked well for the buyer who purchased this magnificent car for the sum of $46,750 including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2010