368ci OHV V12 Engine
Twin Updraft Stromberg Carburetors
135bhp at 3,400rpm
3-Speed Synchronized Manual Transmission
Independent Front and Rear Semi-Elliptical Leaf Spring Suspension
4-Wheel Vacuum-Assisted Mechanical Drum Brakes

*Multicylinder performance and handsome Fleetwood coachwork
*A potential wonderful CARavan automobile
*Classic Car Club of America Full Classic

THE TWELVE-CYLINDER CADILLAC

Cadillac had successfully disguised the development of its new V-16 by spreading the rumor of an impending V12. Imagine the motoring world's surprise when, scarcely a season after the "Sixteen" made its stunning debut, it was followed by a V12, completing a trifecta of beautifully designed and styled engines. Cadillac would be the only Classic Era manufacturer to offer V-8, V12, and V-16 power...and all at the same time, no less.

The V12 was developed by the great Owen Nacker, also the father of the Sixteen, to which it was very similar, minus, of course, four cylinders; indeed, the two engines shared a great deal of their tooling. The twelve-cylinder design had its own breed of smooth performance and abundant torque, and cars fitted with it were fine road automobiles. For most of its life, which continued through 1937, it was available with both production Fisher bodies and with the striking, costly Fleetwood bodies also used on the V-16 chassis – a roster that in 1934 encompassed virtually available design or style that one could envision for his or her new automobile. A Fleetwood-bodied Twelve gave up very little to its sixteen-cylinder brethren; it was vast, powerful, and exquisitely appointed to suit the finest of tastes.

It was also limited in its production. In 1934, production of Cadillac's most expensive offerings dwindled further, despite the introduction of a completely new chassis with independent front suspension and modern streamlined styling, including gorgeous torpedo headlights and "biplane" bumpers. It was the most beautiful V12 yet, but unfortunately the world economy continued to hammer its sales. Only 683 twelve-cylinder models were produced this season.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

The example offered here was the seventh produced in 1934 in this dignified and elegant Fleetwood style no. 6030S, a five-passenger sedan with a modern one-piece flat windshield, an automobile that truly embodies the Cadillac reputation for conservative beauty and style. Its factory build sheet, a copy of which is included in the file, notes its delivery as a "rush" order to Philadelphia, finished entirely in black with Wiese broadcloth upholstery, "Goddess" radiator mascot, and dual side-mounted spares with metal covers. Undoubtedly the original dealer had a customer ready and waiting for such a car, and with the Great Depression taking its toll on luxury automobile sales, Cadillac wanted to get the new V12 into its owner's hands as soon as possible – hence the "rush" order.

The car is still finished in that original color scheme, with wonderful subtle woodgrain and nickel accents, and the sumptuously instrumented dashboard that is typical of Cadillac in this era. The dual sidemounted spares boast full covers and mirrors, while charming design features include rear vent windows, a handy touch for the passengers that helps to provide flow-through ventilation and cool the interior on a long tour. The engine compartment appears largely original, but is clean and tidy, suitable for further driving enjoyment, especially as the current owner has spent $25,000 rebuilding the engine.

Twelve-cylinder Cadillacs are ideal automobiles for Classic Car Club of America CARavans and other long-distance touring events, and this well-maintained and lovingly preserved example would be ideal for such purposes. It has formal elegance and wonderful character in equal measure, and room for the entire family to ride in comfort and style on American roads. It would also be a wonderful counterpoint to V-8 and V-16 models to complete a Cadillac enthusiast's collection, exactly as it would have in the showroom of a dealer back in 1934. The possibilities are endless.