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1931 Cadillac Series 370-A Twelve

Either poor timing or going 'all-in,' Cadillac unleashed an assault on the luxury car market at the dawn of the 1930s, coinciding with the Stock Market crash and the Great Depression. The V8 remained the company's 'bread-and-butter' and offered in a staggering array of body styles. For 1930, Cadillac introduced an industry-first V16 production model, followed by the V-12 for 1931. No other company had more cylinders than Cadillac and no other automaker - on either side of the Atlantic - could lay claim to offering a full range of V-8, V-12, and V-16 model lines all at the same time.

The early 1930s was a time of desperation for the American car industry, as the world was plunged into the Great Depression. Cadillac was able to weather the storm with the help of a diverse lineup and the deep pockets of General Motors. This was not the case for other great manufacturers such as Marmon, Stutz, Pierce-Arrow, Duesenberg, or Peerless, who would all vanish before the decade came to a close.

For 1931, Cadillac offered no less than four different passenger car lines offered in every style and enough power to remain at the forefront of luxury. Along with engineering prowess, styling was equally important. General Motors' styling revolution had begun in 1927 with the hiring of Harley Earl and the establishment of the 'Art and Colour' Department, which soon redefined automotive design.

The Cadillac V-12 engine was renowned for its smooth-running and silent operation and was available in 140- and 143-inch wheelbase lengths. Internally designated Series 370-A, Cadillac's V-12 line was introduced in September 1930, initially priced from $3,795 for 1931. Ten body styles were catalogued from Fleetwood and Fisher, supplemented by a vast array of custom bodies ranging from formal to sporting. Interiors for all V-12s were fitted by Fleetwood's craftsmen.

The V-12 engine displaced over 6,000cc and offered 135 horsepower at 3,400 RPM. The engine bay was styled by Harley Earl's Art and Colour Section. Hydraulic valve silencers dampened the noise from its overhead-valve system by using oil pressure to automatically reset valve lash at zero. In the past, this had been problematic, requiring frequent adjustments to prevent clacking. The V12 engine was backed by a three-speed manual gearbox that carried synchromesh on its upper two ratios. The synchromesh gearbox enabled smoother gear selection and negated the need for double-clutching. Ride comfort was ensured by the leaf springs and a three-quarter floating back axle housing a spiral bevel differential. Stopping power was provided by fifteen-inch vacuum servo-assisted drums.

The Fleetwood Metal Body Company

The Fleetwood Company began business in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, on April 1, 1909, and continued as an independent automobile body builder until acquired in 1925 by the Fisher Body Company, a division of General Motors. The Fisher brothers had sold out their body company to General Motors in 1925. The Fleetwood Company remained in Fleetwood, PA until 1931 at which time General Motors moved the operation to Detroit, relocating the construction operations to a former Fisher Body plant. Fleetwood's president and chief designer also moved from Pennsylvania to Detroit, and provided continuity for the company, while also working with members of Harley Earl's staff at GM's Art and Colour Department. Cadillac was able to promise delivery of the Fisher-Fleetwood catalogue customs within seven weeks. Full-customs took significantly longer to complete.

Prior to the acquisition by Fisher, the Fleetwood Metal Body Company had built a reputation as a builder of fine aluminum and wood automobile bodies. Their built-to-order bodies were highly sought-after by influential people on both sides of the border, some of whom were royalty from India and Japan, presidents of Poland and the United States, and well-known American movie icons.

The Cadillac acquisition of Fleetwood gave the company capital to expand and modernize, and it gave GM a source for high-quality coachwork. Fleetwood continued to build coachwork for non-GM customers, including many bodies for Chrysler.

Clients would purchase a chassis, such as Isotta Fraschini, Bentley, Mercedes, Rolls-Royce, or Fiat - or from American makers Duesenberg, Cadillac, Pierce-Arrow, Stutz, or Packard. The purchased chassis with wheels and engine were shipped to Fleetwood, PA, while the customer would meet with one of the company's designers, typically in New York, to put the customer's needs, desires, and ideas on paper. Once accepted, the plans were sent to Fleetwood where the body would be created, mounted on the chassis, and finished in the upholstery, appointments, and colors selected by the client.

Under Fisher's direction, Fleetwood would eventually make production and semi-custom products carrying the celebrated Fleetwood name. Many Cadillac models would use the Fleetwood name for several decades that followed. Starting in 1927, the Fleetwood name was used for the top-of-the-line Cadillac.

by Dan Vaughan

Fisher Touring by Fisher
Engine number: 1004917

Henry M. Leland formed the Cadillac Automobile Company on August 22nd of 1902. When the Henry Ford Company faltered, Leland was brought in to evaluate the leftover assets. He persuaded Ford's remaining partners to continue the automobile business using Leland's proven 1-cylinder engine. They named the company in honor of Leland's distant ancestor, 17th-century French explorer Antoine Laumet de la Mothe, Sieur de Cadillac, founder of Detroit.

Cadillac earned a reputation early on for precision manufacturing and reliability. The company also perfected the interchangeability of parts as well as many other early innovations. General Motors acquired the company in 1909 and positioned it as the prestige division. Cadillac's introduction of V12 and V16 powered cars in 1930 kicked off the 'cylinder wars' among the American luxury marques leading Packard to introduce their line of Twelve's.

The V12 engine was introduced in October of 1930, just nine months after the V16, and rode on a 140-inch wheelbase chassis shared with the V8 models. The 368 cubic-inch L-head engine with dual carburetors produced 135 horsepower. Hydraulic shock absorbers, synchromesh transmission, and vacuum-assisted brakes made for comfortable driving. The car was designed to make a statement and all engine wiring and plumbing were hidden from view.

The 5-passenger phaeton model was priced at $4,045 and 5,725 cars were built.

This Cadillac 370A V-12 Phaeton has a body similar to Fleetwood's Sport Phaeton but was built by Fisher and does not have the roll-up windshield and instruments in the rear passenger compartment. Fleetwood, however, trimmed the interior of the cars and badged them appropriately.

This particular example is believed to be an original V-12 Phaeton, along with the current engine, number 1004917, is a replacement unit in this chassis. The car is equipped with dual side-mounted spares, wire wheels, dual Pilot Ray driving lights, dual horns, 'wind wings,' a radiator stone guard, a 'Goddess' radiator mascot, and a proper Cadillac accessory metal trunk. It also has side curtains and a top boot.

This car was owned by D. Richard Shonk of Ashton, Maryland. While in his care, it was awarded Cadillac-LaSalle Club Senior badge number 418 in 2002. It was acquired in 2002 by Robert Perry before joining the Kughn Collection around 2008. It is now a CCCA Senior Premier car as well, carrying badge number 2062.

The car was given a restoration in the late 1990s and has been driven just 169 miles since that work was completed. It is finished in maroon and cream.

Fleetwood Phaeton by Fleetwood
Chassis number: 10-2034
Engine number: 1004197

Cadillac's sixteen-cylinder vehicles were an engineering phenomenon and the pinnacle of luxury at the time. The V12 Cadillac was positioned to contend with a very impressive field of cars such as the Pierce-Arrow, Packard, Lincoln, and Chrysler. In many respects, Cadillac had a car for every segment of the luxury car market. The V12 Cadillac's shared many similarities with its sixteen-cylinder siblings including massive headlamps and detailed bright work and trim throughout. To distinguish the other Cadillac models from the V12 and V16 models, an array of exclusive options could only be found on the upper-level models.

This V12 example is a Five-Passenger Phaeton with coachwork by Fleetwood. Its original owners resided in Los Angeles, California, and had left the factory equipped with metal tire covers, a Goddess radiator ornament, and an export-type windshield that can fold down. It still wears its original Fleetwood body though the car has been restored to period-correct standards in the late 1990s. It has received First Place honors in 2002 at a Grand National meet, was awarded a Senior badge by the Cadillac LaSalle Club, and is a CCCA Premier winner.

In 2008 this 1931 Cadillac V12 Series 370-A Five-Passenger Phaeton with coachwork by Fleetwood was brought to RM Auctions 'Vintage Motor Cars of Meadow Brook' where it was estimated to sell for $225,000-$275,000. Though bidding did not reach those estimates, it was high enough to satisfy the vehicle's reserve and the lot was sold. A high bid of $192,500 was enough to secure new ownership.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood All-Weather Phaeton by Fleetwood

The Cadillac V-12, and its sister engine the V-16, were the logical outgrowth of the popularity and technology of the well-built Cadillac V-8, and the necessity of more powerful mechanisms to move increasingly larger and heavier automobiles. Simply enlarging the V-8 bores was ineffective as it caused certain thermal problems, and superchargers were only practical in racing machines. By process of elimination, more cylinders, a larger displacement, and higher compression became the solution. The V-12 and V-16 engines helped propel Cadillac into competition with the most expensive cars in the world. Although the timing of the production of these cars may have been less than ideal (the v-16 was introduced less than two months after the Wall Street crash), the cars are some of the best ever built by Cadillac.

The V-12s, introduced just nine months after the V-16s, were built on a 140-inch chassis that was also shared by the V-8 that was the mainstay of Cadillac's line-up. The smaller engine was known for free revving and smooth, even power. Twenty different models were available in the V-12 as opposed to over 50 in the V-16 model. The Roadster, the sportiest vehicle in the lineup, was one of the most desirable of the V-12 cars available. Cadillac's current 2003 prototype V-16 takes styling cues from the V-12 and V-16s of this era.

by SDAM

Fleetwood Roadster by Fleetwood
Engine number: 1004534

This 1931 Cadillac V12 Roadster with coachwork by Fleetwood was offered for sale at the 2007 Christie's auction of 'Exceptional Motor Cars at the Monterey Jet Center.' Its twelve-cylinder engine is aligned at a 45-degree angle and capable of producing 135 horsepower.

For 1931 Cadillac reinforced its slogan 'The Standard of the World' by offering four-passenger car choices powered by eight, twelve, or sixteen-cylinder engines. There were a total of twelve body styles and included customer-specified designs by some of the most prominent coachbuilders of the era, including Fleetwood and Fisher.

With Harley J. Earl employed as General Motors' head of the Art and Color styling department, Cadillac was able to produce impressive designs that put many of their competition out of business, with some help from the Great Depression of the time.

This Roadster carried a sticker price of $3,945 in 1931. It features a rumble seat and a side access door to the rear bodywork. It is well equipped with many optional features such as a goddess mascot, directional following auxiliary lights, spare tire with cover, and rearview mirror to each running board and set into the fenders. It has been treated to a comprehensive restoration in the 1980s and has been well preserved since that time.

At the auction, this car was estimated to sell for $80,000 - $160,000 and offered without reserve. The selling price exceeded the estimated value and sold for $187,000.

Fleetwood Roadster by Fleetwood

The Cadillac Series 370 had many similarities to its V-16 counterpart but was outfitted with a twelve-cylinder engine. Most of the bodywork was constructed by Fisher with Fleetwood providing the interior coachwork.

During the close of the 1920's General Motors noticed luxury manufacturers such as Duesenberg and Auburn were rapidly becoming the prestigious nameplates for many families. To compete in this expanding marketplace, Cadillac bought Fleetwood, a custom body-building manufacturer. Fleetwood was tasked with building custom bodies using various designs and body styles to accommodate a wide customer base.

The twelve-cylinder engine had a reputation for its dependability, durability, and smooth and quiet ride. The 90-degree, L-head eight-cylinder engine with cast iron on an aluminum crankcase was capable of producing nearly 100 horsepower. The hydraulic shock absorbers and large, low-slung rear springs gave the occupants a level of comfort that was unmatched. The transmission was synchromesh with three gears and the large mechanical drum brakes provided excellent stopping power. There was plenty of optional equipment that could be purchased to suit the buyer's needs such as a trunk, tire covers, mirrors, heater, and more.

Unfortunately, the Great Depression was responsible for the low production numbers of Cadillac's most prestigious automobiles. Many manufacturers, especially those that catered to the wealthy clientele, were affected and many went out of business.

This example is of 74 1931 370-A, V-12 Fleetwood Roadsters built and one of seven known survivors. Bodied in the Fleetwood, Pa plant prior to GM moving the entire Fleetwood Body Works to Detroit. This car was delivered to Don Lee Cadillac, Inc. Dealership in San Francisco on 10/29/1930. This car has been given a restoration which took 8,000 man-hours to complete.

In 1931, a V-12 Roadster was used as the Indy Pace Car. The original price was $3,945.

First Place AACA National Winner- #W17611, CCCA Premier Winner- #2689SP

Fleetwood Phaeton by Fleetwood
Chassis number: 1001774

Most of the V-12 Cadillacs were bodied by Fisher in catalogue designs. They were more economical than the Fleetwood coachwork, which was now being built in Detroit rather than in the original Fleetwood factory in Pennsylvania. Discerning clients could specify a Fleetwood body to individual specifications on any Cadillac chassis.

This particular 370-A V-12 Cadillac is a Fleetwood-bodied Dual Cowl Sport Phaeton resting on a 140-inch wheelbase. It has a gently raked one-piece windshield and a compact close-coupled passenger compartment that blends the dual cowl with an ample rear passenger compartment. Both the front and rear doors are hinged at the front. The hood is a mere four inches shorter than the one found on the V-16. This car has been given a restoration and finished in emerald green with chrome hood side vent doors, beige leather upholstery with beige carpets, and a beige cloth top. The car rides on chrome spoke center-lock wire wheels with body-color hubs and rims. There are dual side-mounted spares with chrome enclosures, wide whitewall tires, a luggage rack, wire mesh radiator stone-guard, dual Trippe driving lights, a goddess radiator cap mascot and wind wings. In the rear body deck is a small door and luggage compartment for short trips when added luggage trunks were not required. Inside, there is a Jaeger clock and a dashboard that features engine-turned inserts on either side of the instrument panel.

In 2009, this 370-A DC Phaeton was offered for sale at the Houston Classic Auction in Seabrook, Texas, presented by Worldwide Auctioneers. The lot was estimated to sell for $220,000 - $270,000 and was offered without a reserve. It was sold for the sum of $195,000, not including the buyer's premium.

by Dan Vaughan

Fisher Coupe by Fisher

This 1931 Cadillac Model 370A Roadster by Fisher is one of only about 85 examples that were produced. It was last titled in 1958 and had just completed a seven-year restoration when it was put on display at the 2009 Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance.

The 370 Series was introduced in October of 1930 and powered by a 368 cubic-inch V12 that offered 135 horsepower. The roadster body style rested on top of a 140-inch wheelbase and had similarities to the larger V16 bodies built by Fisher. All interiors were built by Fleetwood. The hood was four inches shorter than the V16 and five inches longer than the V8. The instrument panel was similar to the V8. The headlights were one inch smaller in diameter than the V16 and the dual rear lights were ball-shaped like the V8. A roadster was used as a pace car in Indy and model year sales reached 5733 units.

Fisher Coupe by Fisher

In October of 1930, Cadillac introduced its 370 series powered by a 368 cubic-inch V12 engine that offered 135 horsepower. The roadster body style rested on a 140-inch wheelbase and had many similarities to the V16 cars built by Fisher and all interiors built by Fleetwood. The hood was five inches longer than the V8 and four inches shorter than the V16. The headlights were one inch smaller in diameter than the V16 and the dual rear lights were ball-shaped like the V8. A roadster was chosen to pace the Indy 500 that year and total production reached 5,733 units.

In 1931, Cadillac produced only two V12 roadsters with rear-mounted spare tires. This example is believed to be the only one left in existence.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood All-Weather Phaeton by Fleetwood
Chassis number: 1004245

This 1931 Cadillac V12 All Weather Phaeton 370A with coachwork by Fleetwood is powered by a 368 cubic-inch twelve-cylinder engine that produces 135 horsepower. It sits atop a 140-inch wheelbase which is held in place with front and rear semi-elliptic leaf springs.

The term 'All Weather Phaeton' was Cadillac's way of saying a convertible sedan with roll-up windows. This 370A was awarded a First National Junior Award at the 1969 AACA meet in Hershey, PA. It scored 96.5 points at the CCCA meet in Indianapolis in 1969. It has won twice at the Concours d'Elegance in Cincinnati, Ohio.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood Sedan by Fleetwood

This 1931 Cadillac Sport Phaeton is one of six surviving examples of the 128 produced. The Fleetwood body was designed by GM styling chief Harley Earl and Ernest Schebera and sits on a 140-inch wheelbase. 1931 was the year that Cadillac introduced the V12 engine. Rated at 135 horsepower, the V12 was essentially the V16 minus four cylinders. Many automotive historians consider the V12 to be the better of the two powerplants. Cadillac exhibited this particular car at the 1931 auto shows held in Detroit, Chicago, New York, and St. Louis. On December 31, 1931, it was sold by the Oliver Cadillac Company to Millard Smith, in St. Louis. In 1968, the car became part of Harrah's collection, in Reno, NV. In 1992, when the Harrah's collection was auctioned off, the car underwent a complete restoration. The car has a total of 36,383 original miles.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood Roadster by Fleetwood

Unemployment nearly doubled to 16.3 percent in 1931 and America began to realize the long-term economic effects of the stock market crash of 1929. Despite the economic downturn, Cadillac, like other prestige manufacturers, found itself in the middle of the 'cylinder wars.' After introducing a V-16 in 1930, it added a V-12 model in 1931. The Twelve and Sixteen shared parts as well as dimensions and angles, so production didn't have to proceed from scratch. While the horsepower of the 368 cubic-inch, 135 horsepower V-12 was well below that of the 452 cubic-inch, 175 horsepower V-16, its performance was similar with 285 lb-ft of torque and a top speed of more than 80 miles-per-hour.

A bright white Series 370 V-12 roadster like this one was driven by Willard 'Big Boy' Rader and paced the 1931 Indianapolis 500. As the flagship, the V-12 and V-16 garnered all the fanfare, but the V-8 powered models sold in steady numbers helping Cadillac's bottom line during difficult economic times.

This particular car was bodied in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, and shipped to Don Lee Cadillac in San Francisco on October 29th of 1930. It is one of 91 Model 370 roadsters built by Cadillac in 1931, and one of only eight known to have survived. It is the beneficiary of an 8,000-man-hour restoration completed in 2004.

Fleetwood Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood

The Cadillac's biggest selling point was precision manufacturing and reliability based on winning the British Dewar Trophy for the most important advancement of the year in the automobile industry. General Motors acquired the company in 1909. Cadillac's introduction of V12 and V16 powered cars in 1930 kicked off the 'cylinder wars' among the American luxury marques leading Packard to introduce their line of Twelves.

The V12 engine was introduced in October 1930, just nine months after the V16, and rode on a 140-inch wheelbase chassis shared with the V8 models. The 368 CID L-head engine with dual carburetors produced 135 horsepower. Hydraulic shock absorbers, synchromesh transmission, and vacuum-assisted brakes made for comfortable driving. The car was designed to make a statement and all engine wiring and plumbing were hidden from view.

Fleetwood All-Weather Phaeton by Fleetwood
Chassis number: 1004792

Eleven months after the stock market crash of 1929, Cadillac introduced its new V-12 vehicle. This 370-A Phaeton was shipped on June 24th of 1931 as a 'chassis with powerplant' to Fleetwood Medal Body of Pennsylvania to be equipped with a phaeton body. Upon completion, the car was finished in black and given special options such as the rear bumper and unique taillights that were normally seen on the V-16 Cadillac. The car was sold by a Detroit dealership to a wealthy family in upstate New York. It is believed the original family kept the car until June of 1964 when it was purchased by Philip Wichard.

The Cadillac was in need of a 'refreshing' so Mr. Wichard brought it to a Long Island worship to have mild re-painting done. After returning from a three-week vacation in Europe, he found the car totally dismantled. Furious, he took the car from the shop and shipped it to the Seaburg Brothers of Sydney, Ohio for a complete restoration. A day after the vehicle was moved, the Long Island shop burned down. The restoration took 18 months to complete. Wichard added a Pilot-Ray light, a Lowbody traveling trunk with luggage, and special-order steel wheel covers for the spare.

Mr. Wichard retained the Cadillac until 1995 when it was sold to Jack Gorman of San Antonio, Texas, who kept the car for 12 years before selling it to the present owner.

In October 1966, the car won the Antique Automobile Club of America Junior National Award and then, a year later, the AACA's President Cup in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In July 1967, it went on to take the Grand Classic Award bestowed by the Classic Car Club of America.

The car wears an older (completed in the late 1960s or early 1970s) restoration. It has a 368 CID overhead valve V-12 engine and a three-speed manual transmission.

In 2012, the car was offered for sale at the Pebble Beach auction presented by Gooding & Company. The car was estimated to sell for $180,000 - $220,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $192,500 inclusive of the buyer's premium.

by Dan Vaughan

Fisher Town Sedan by Fisher
Engine number: 4000698

This Cadillac V-12 Town Sedan with coachwork by Fisher was sold once part of the Imperial Palace Collection. It was sold in 1991, undergoing a full restoration some years later. The current owner purchased the car in May of 2004, after which he began an exhaustive four-year restoration to original, correcting many of the errors made in the previous restoration. The car was finished in two-tone maroon and was awarded a CCCA Full Classic in October of 2010.

The car has a restored original Cadillac accessory trunk and folding rack, and it is equipped with Senior Trippe driving lights.

In 2013, the car was offered for sale in Scottsdale, Arizona by RM Auctions. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $49,500 including the buyer's premium.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood
Engine number: 1003102

In 1930 Cadillac started a 'Cylinder Race' by introducing an overhead valve, 452 cubic-inch V-16 engine. Marmon followed suit with a V-16. In 1931 Cadillac introduced a V-12 resulting in its having a V-8, a V-12, and a V-16 engine. By 1932 several other luxury brands, such as Lincoln, Pierce Arrow, Packard, and Auburn, joined the race with V-12 engines. By 1931 Cadillac offered more models and body styles than any other make with 3 wheelbase lengths, 3 engines, and over 60 body styles both production and custom.

The 1931 V-12 Model 370 has a 140-inch wheelbase chassis with a 368 cubic-inch, 135-horsepower, overhead valve engine. It incorporates unique hydraulic valve lash adjusters, among the first engines with this feature. A Cadillac V-12 roadster was the Pace Car for the 1931 Indianapolis 500. Most enthusiasts who have driven good examples of the V-16 and V-12 feel that the V-12 is a better driving car, partly as a result of the much lower weight on the front end, with almost as much acceleration and speed as the V-16.

This Convertible Coupe was purchased by the present owner in June 2012. After driving it about 20 times for evaluation a complete restoration was started. It is a correct authentic restoration with matching engine, transmission, and body numbers.

Fleetwood Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood
Engine number: 1001934

The Fleetwood Metal Body Company was formed in 1909 in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania. It was created especially to build automobile bodies, rather than being an evolution of a carriage-building company. The company was particularly known for quality interior woodwork.

Fleetwood was bought in 1925 by the Fisher brothers, who had sold out their body company to General Motors. This gave Fleetwood capital to expand and modernize, and it gave GM a ready source for high-quality coachwork. Though GM was the primary customer, some work continued for non-GM customers, including Chrysler. In 1930, the Fishers moved Fleetwood to Detroit and closed the Pennsylvania operations, relocating the construction operations to a former Fisher Body plant. From this point on, work was focused on Cadillac and GM in particular.

When Fleetwood moved to Detroit, not all of the staff relocated. Fleetwood's president and chief designer had moved, and he provided continuity, even while also working with members of Harley Earl's staff at GM Art and Color Department.

Cadillac promised delivery of their Fisher-Fleetwood catalogue customs within seven weeks. Customers who ordered full-customs had to wait significantly longer.

This Convertible Coupe is an original Fleetwood-bodied car that still retains its original engine. The Cadillac was delivered through General Motors of Canada Ltd. and was shown at the Montreal Auto Show that year. The build sheet indicates the car was specified with six wire wheels, including dual side-mounted spares and tire-mounted side mirrors.

Later in the car's life, it was given a body-off restoration. It was finished in maroon with black fenders, door 'saddles,' and outlining. Steel covers hide the side-mounted spares, and the wire wheels are painted a slightly lighter shade than the body color. Accessories include wide whitewall tires, the famous Goddess radiator mascot, an opening windshield, a cowl-mounted spotlight, a golf bag door, a trunk rack, dual Pilot Ray driving lights, and dual horns.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood
Engine number: 1002411

This Cadillac V-12 Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood was supplied by New York distributor I.M. Uppercu to Bayers Auto Sales, of Long Island City, with financing drawn through the Corn Exchange Bank.

For over three decades, the car was part of a prominent collection, which is owned by a long-time CCCA member. It was acquired in New York, where its life had begun, in 1982. After two decades of ownership, the owner elected to have the car restored. The car was shown three times in CCCA competition since the completion of its restoration, where the car scored 100 points every time and reached Premier status.

The car is finished in two shades of crimson and has a tan leather interior and a Burbank cloth top. Other equipment includes chrome wire wheels shod in wide whitewall tires, a Goddess hood ornament, dual horns, dual mirrors, a luggage rack with a trunk, and a radiator stone guard.

by Dan Vaughan

Fisher Sedan by Fleetwood
Chassis number: 103536
Engine number: 1003203

The Cadillac V-12 and V-16 shared the same stroke size but the bore was larger on the sixteen-cylinder engine. In many respects, the V12 and the V16 were the same. The V-12 had 30 less horsepower than its siblings and was priced roughly $2,500 lower.

This 1931 Cadillac V-12 Five-Passenger Sedan was ordered through Don Lee, Inc., the Los Angeles dealership, on February 28, 1931, for delivery no later than April 1st. The car came with six wire wheels, fender-mounted spares, and the Goddess radiator ornament. The early history is not known; in 1984 it was acquired by its current owner. The car has been given a partial restoration. All mechanical components were completely disassembled and restored to factory specifications. It was finished in a green-gray color scheme and the upholstery is gray broadcloth. The car has a correct 'high boy' trunk, and Trippe driving lights, fitted luggage, and a period-correct matching lap robe were added. It has a jack and special hubcap removal tool, a Cadillac logo door hinge mirror on the driver's side, and a set of tools.

This Cadillac was awarded Best of Show honors at the Forest Grove Concours d'Elegance in Oregon following the completion of the restoration in 1995. The next year it scored 100 points at the Classic Car Club of America Pacific Northwest Grand Classic, receiving Senior medallion 1658. It was awarded 2nd place in the Closed Classic class at Pebble Beach in 1999.

by Dan Vaughan

Fisher Touring by Fisher
Engine number: 1004710

Cadillac Series 370A V-12 Phaeton by Fisher with body style number 4760. The front and rear passenger compartments were similar in their lines to the Fleetwood Sport Phaeton body for the V-16 Cadillac but did not have the roll-up second windshield and rear compartment instruments. Fisher was responsible for building the body while Fleetwood trimmed the interior, and the car was badged appropriately.

Upon completion, the phaeton was sent to the Philadelphia Branch, later being diverted to Allentown, Pennsylvania, where it found its original owner. It is believed that the car was given a restoration in the early 1980s, at which point it was refinished in its present two-tone brown and coffee tan color scheme with tan synthetic leather upholstery, as well as possibly the second cowl. It came into the care of its current owner in 2009.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood

While the V-16 helped Cadillac grab headlines, the V-12 struck the fine balance of utilizing styling nearly identical to that of the V-16 while being a more affordable luxury model. As such, 5,733 examples of the 370-A found homes in 1931. Of the ten body styles offered, the Fleetwood Convertible Coupe is noted for its graceful proportions, especially its gently sloping rear end. Additionally, the convertible top seals the cabin when raised, but folds nearly flat when down, making the Convertible Coupe versatile for use in nearly any season.

This Cadillac 370A weighs 5105 pounds and is capable of 80 mph.

This car was sold new in San Francisco, Calif., at an original cost of $4,045. In 1930, Cadillac shocked the motoring world with the introduction of a V-12 engine designed by engineer Owen Nacker. Cadillac promised delivery of its Fisher-Fleetwood-bodied cars within seven weeks. The first year of production for the V-12, 45-degree overhead valve engine was 1931. The V12's output is a healthy 135 horsepower to move its 5,105 pounds. It has a synchromesh transmission.

This Convertible Coupe was given a restoration that was completed in 2017. It made its Concours debut at the 2018 Greenbrier Concours d'Elegance.

Fleetwood Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood

The year 1931 is considered by many the apogee of Cadillacs of the Classic Era, with the introduction of a new V-12 series to fill the gap between V-8 and V-16. The Standard of the World was certainly an understatement among luxury marques with offerings of 134-, 140-, and 143-inch wheelbases, bodies by Fisher and Fleetwood, three different engine configurations, and the more moderately priced LaSalle as part of its lineup. It arguably began a trend that eventually led to Cadillac's domination of the luxury car field over rival Packard.

The stately V-12s arrived in showrooms beginning in October of 1930. Cadillac cataloged a choice of 12 Fisher-bodied models as well as 10 semi-custom Fleetwood-bodied models. A v-12 roadster piloted by Cadillac test chief Willard 'Big Boy' Rader paced the Indianapolis 500 race in the Memorial Day Classic. Cadillac produced a total of 10,717 V-8s, 5,733 V-12s and 363 V-16s for the model year.

Fleetwood Phaeton by Fleetwood
Chassis number: 1001581

The Fleetwood Metal Body Company of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania was founded on April 1st of 1909. It was an independent automobile body builder until being acquired in 1925 by the Fisher Body Company, a division of General Motors. It remained in Fleetwood until 1931 when it moved to Detroit.

The Fleetwood Metal Body Company quickly established a reputation as a builder of fine aluminum and wood automobile bodies. Their customers included royalty from India and Japan, presidents of Poland and the United States, and American movie idols.

This particular Cadillac 370A V-12 wears body style 4760 and is one of 128 examples produced. The Five-Passenger Sport Phaeton was the work of Fleetwood.

The car was part of the Dr. Barbara Mae Atwood collection for many years. It is finished in a muted shade of orange with brown fenders and a dark brown cloth convertible top with light brown piping. There are whitewall tires and chrome spoke wheels that are painted the same brown as the fenders. There are twin side mounts enclosed in metal covers and carrying rearview mirrors. In the front are a chrome radiator stone guard and a set of Pilot-Ray driving lights. In the back is a large trunk on the rear folding trunk rack. The interior is done in tan leather upholstery with light brown carpeting and the dashboard gauges are contained in a centrally located oval. The rear passenger compartment has a folding foot rested and its own windshield while the driver and front passenger have folding wind-wings to control the breeze at speed. For foul weather, there is a set of side curtains contained in its own pouch in the trunk.

This car rests on a 140-inch wheelbase and is powered by a 368 cubic-inch overhead valve V12 engine offering 135 horsepower and mated to a three-speed manual transmission.

Fleetwood Roadster by Fleetwood

Cadillac built some 5,725 V-12 370A series automobiles in 1930-31. The model was available as a 4-door limousine, a 4-door sedan, a 2-door tourer, and this example of a 2-door roadster. The OHV 368 CID engines produced 135 HP, cruised effortlessly at 4000 rpm, and could reach 83mph. A series 370A was the official pace car of the 1931 Indianapolis 500.

This is one of only 10 1931 V-12 Roadsters believed to exist today. The original owner received the car as an 18th birthday gift from his parents. He drove it only 25,000 miles before it was sold to its current owner 55 years later.

The current owner first became aware of the car in 1978 and negotiated with the original owner for eight years before the purchase was finalized in 1986. The car underwent a three-year restoration beginning in 1991 and currently shows 27,250 miles on its odometer.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood
Engine number: 1003259

The Cadillac 370 model was introduced in October of 1930 and was equipped with a new 12-cylinder engine. Cadillac had recently introduced the legendary V-16 model and this example was positioned above the company's tried-and-true V8 model and below the range-topping V16. Most examples received production bodies and this particular Model 370-A wears body number 201 with body style number 4735 - a rumble seat Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood.

The car was delivered new to Los Angeles Cadillac dealer Don Lee in March of 1931 wearing black exterior paint with ivory trim and Burbank cloth for the convertible top. In the late 1950s or early 1960s, it was purchased by William Gottwald and continues to wear the California black license plates issued in 1963.

The car is currently in unrestored condition with top irons and seat frames still in place. It retains its front and rear bumpers, six wire wheels, running boards, metal side-mount spare tire covers, and a trunk rack.

Only nine examples of these Convertible Coupes are known to exist.

This car is equipped with a 368 cubic-inch, overhead-valve V12 engine delivering 135 horsepower at 3,400 RPM. There is a three-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel mechanical drum brakes, and a front beam axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs. In the back is a live axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood
Engine number: 1004482

The Cadillac V-12 engine was reportedly identical to the company's V-16 model but with four fewer cylinders. The 368 cubic inch unit had a cast iron and aluminum crankcase, mechanical valve lifters with hydraulic silencers, and four main bearings. Rated at 135 horsepower and 285 pound-feet of torque, the engine gave the twelve-cylinder Cadillac a top speed of 80 mph, ranking it among the fastest automobiles of its day. The transmission was a selective synchromesh three-speed manual unit. Two wheelbase sizes were offered with the 140-inch platform for five-passenger models and the 143-inch platform for seven-passenger models. The V-12-equipped cars featured hoods five inches longer than their V-8 counterparts.

A 1931 Cadillac V-12 roadster was piloted by the company's test chief Willard Radar at the Indianapolis 500 in the Memorial Day Classic.

This 1931 Cadillac Series 370-A is believed to have been given a nut-and-bolt restoration and is finished in a two-tone green finish with hand-painted cream pinstriping over saddle leather upholstery and a canvas convertible top. The painted steel center-lock wheels with stainless steel spokes and polished Cadillac hubcaps are wrapped with wide whitewall tires.

The Convertible Coupe coachwork was bodied by Fleetwood and period features include the six-wire-wheel appointment with dual, fender-mounted spares. There are Pilot Ray driving lights, a leather-trimmed rumble seat, a golf bag door, a Flying Goddess radiator mascot, optional, fender-mounted, locking, rearview mirrors, and a green luggage rack.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood Roadster by Fleetwood
Chassis number: 10-894
Engine number: 10-00974

Cadillac's 368 cubic-inch V-12 engine produced 135 horsepower and 285 pound-feet of torque. It shared many of its parts, dimensions, and angles with the V-16 engine, and its performance was nearly equal to that of the Sixteen, offering strong torque and a similar top speed.

This Series 370-A V-12 Roadster was delivered new to Don Lee Cadillac in October 1931 and is one of approximately ten surviving examples that wears this Fleetwood body style. There are dual side-mounted spare tires, a black Burbank top, and wire wheels.

Charles Schmitt of St. Louis, Missouri, acquired this V-12 Roadster by 1974 and then sold onward to Claude S. Canada of Kimper, Kentucky. In 1980, the Cadillac was purchased by Jerry J. Moore, who had it restored to its present livery and then displayed within his automotive museum until 2008. The current caretaker purchased the car in 2012. In 2022, the engine was rebuilt which included the installation of 12 new bronze rod bearings, as well as polishing and rebalancing the factory-provided crankshaft.

by Dan Vaughan

Fleetwood Convertible Coupe by Fleetwood
Engine number: 1005030

This 1931 Cadillac Fleetwood Convertible Coupe is powered by a 368 cubic-inch V12 engine rated at 135 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque. It was one of two new engines introduced by Cadillac in 1930, the other being a 45-degree, overhead-valve V-16. The two units had many similarities, allowing Cadillac to implement the same refinements of the more expensive V-16 on the V-12, among them being four main bearings, twin intake silencers, an aluminum crankcase, and cast iron cylinders.

The twelve-cylinder Cadillac of 1930 was offered with twelve distinct bodies offered by Fisher, as well as ten bespoke designs from Fleetwood. This particular 1931 Cadillac V-12 Convertible Coupe has a full complement of features, including a Flying Lady radiator mascot, golf bag compartment, dual side-mounted spares, dual taillights, rumble seat, and rear luggage rack. It has a beige exterior with a light brown belt line, a matching beige soft top, and an adjustable red leather bench seat. Optional equipment includes Cadillac Pilot-Ray driving lamps and color-keyed wheels with chrome spokes wrapped in whitewall tires.

This Cadillac received a complete restoration in the mid-2000s. It was originally sold through Hall Cadillac Co. of Denver, Colorado. The car was acquired by its current caretaker in 2015.

by Dan Vaughan

The Detroit, MI based Cadillac Company offered three different and very distinct chassis and drive trains, a V8, V12 and the massive V16 in 1931. The series 355-A had eight cylinders, the 370-A had twelve-cylinders, and a continuation of the 1930 and 1931 series 452 and 452-A V-16. A total of 10,717 automobile were produced.

Over 5725 370A vehicles were produced from 1930 to 1931. It was available in the two door coupe, 4 door limousine, 2 door roadster, 4 door sedan and the 2 door Tourer. Model year sales were 5,733.

The 370-A series was very similar to the 1930-31 V-16 except some bodies were built by Fisher, but all body interiors were built by Fleetwood.

The hood was four inches shorter than the V-16, and five inches longer than the V-8. The battery was mounted in the right front fender, and the coach sill was modified with a single molding on the splash shield.

The headlights were smaller in diameter than the V-16 headlights by one inch, and the instrument panel was very similar to the V-8 panel. It also had ball shaped dual rear headlights like the V-8 and dual hors that were smaller than on the V-16.

The front tread was the same as the V-8, and the frame had divergent side rails like the Series 355. Rear springs were mounted under the frame rails.

The sedans had two wheelbases, 140' and 143', though the semi-commercial unit had a 152' wheelbase.

Featuring very fine Fleetwood coachwork in standard Fisher bodies, the Fleetwood Body Company was also located in Detroit Michigan.

With a OHV V12 engine, 368 cid and 135 hp, the 370A was priced at $4,895 when new. Able to reach 160km/h, the Cadillac Fleetwood Sport Phaeton came with a narrow-angle V16 power unit.

The 370-A engine had dual intake silencers that were slightly smaller than the single unit on the V-8 engine. The silencers were positioned at the rear were the V-16 vacuum tanks were mounted.

It also had carburetors that were reversed yet very similar to the V-16 so the air inlet was located at the rear.

The V-16 oil filter was mounted on the center of the dash near a single vacuum tank.

The Cadillac V-12 was the official pace car in 1931 for the Indianapolis 500.

by Jessican Donaldson