Few vehicles in the world have the presence of a 1933 V-12 Cadillac, especially a jet black one.

Manufactured from 1931 to 1937, all were built with custom hand-made bodies with only 10,903 examples being produced over the 7-year model run. The majority of these were turned out in the first year of production. Only 953 cars were produced in 1933.

They were Cadillac’s first and only production V-12 vehicles – no other Cadillac V-12 has been manufactured since.

The 1933 model was labelled the Series 370C and specific styling cues included a V-shaped grill that blended into the painted radiator shell, a radiator cap hidden under the hood and skirts on the front and rear fenders for a more streamlined look.

Mechanical changes were few but important, including new vacuum clutches and two-way hydraulic shock absorbers with driver controls. The 368 cubic-inch overhead valve V-12 engine with hydraulically silenced solid lifters developed 135 horsepower and was linked to a three-speed synchromesh transmission. There were four-wheel vacuum-assisted mechanical drum brakes and a leaf spring and solid axle front suspension system.

This model also had a stiffer frame, dual Detroit Lubricator carburettors and a Cuno self-cleaning oil filter. Fisher no-draft individually controlled vent windows were also a new standard feature.

Being able to afford a V-12 Cadillac in 1933 during the height of the Great Depression meant you had very deep pockets and came from “old money”.

Cadillac's commitment to the luxury car segment during the 1930s was unrelenting and its undeniable quality, stylish and modern coach work and mechanical innovations kept it as the 'standard of the world.'

THE CAR

An extremely rare and beautiful example, this seven-seater limousine presents in amazing  original condition and oozes class.

Imported into Australia 11 years ago, it is believed to have been held by only one American family since it rolled off the production line.

An imposing tribute to the art-deco era, this car sports suicide doors, wide running boards, dual air horns  and is 6-wheel equipped with dual front fender mounted spare wheels with hard covers.

In addition, there are beautiful Cadillac fog lamps, ornate taillights, oodles of chrome and all original “V-12” emblems.

Internally the car retains its original fawn cloth interior, Fleetwood scuff plates, woollen carpets, original silk blinds with art deco tassels, mother of pearl interior lights, rear Jaeger passenger clock, dual bespoke wine bottle/tommy gun holders  and disappearing “jump” seats. The original steering wheelhouses light and throttle controls.

Finished in jet black paint with original patina the car retains its original vinyl covered roof, fantastic art deco styled door handles, parquetry wood dash with gorgeous instrument cluster, original rear luggage rack with matching leather handled trunk, white wall tyres and V-12 centre caps adorning  black spoked wire wheels.

The engine turns over easily and runs smoothly with fantastic torque, gear shifts are effortless and the drum brakes pull this beauty up with ease.

A magnificent example and ultimate grand tourer.