This 1934 Cadillac Model 370-D Fleetwood V-12 7-Passenger Sedan is a pre-war CCCA Full Classic, showcasing the luxurious craftsmanship of the era. In the midst of the Great Depression, luxury car manufacturers, including Cadillac, faced severe financial challenges. Unlike its contemporaries such as Peerless and Marmon, which ceased operations, Cadillac persevered, continuing to cater to the elite few who could afford its opulence. Cadillac strategically filled the gap between its Series 355 V-8 and Series 452 V-16 models by introducing the V-12 Series 370. It also emphasized its "Cadillac-lite" companion brand, LaSalle, to attract more entry-level customers.
The year 1934 marked a significant redesign for Cadillac across all product lines, introducing style elements that would influence the industry. The front featured a sleek, aerodynamically raked grille, flanked by teardrop-style headlights. The art deco-inspired "bi-plane" design of the bumpers, with thin blades separated by bullet-shaped spacers, added to its allure. Cadillac also innovated by relocating the spare tire from the rear to inside the trunk and offering optional covered side-mounted spares.
The interior matched the exterior in luxury, offering plush seating and sophisticated amenities expected in a top-class Cadillac of the early to mid-1930s. Between 1934 and 1935, only 1,098 Series 370-D V-12 cars were produced, making this vehicle exceptionally rare. It features a 368 cubic inch V-12 engine with dual single-barrel carburetors, producing 133 horsepower. The power is managed through a 3-speed manual transmission, shifted via a floor-mounted lever. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, vacuum-assisted mechanical brakes ensure stopping power.
The car's appearance is striking, with wide whitewall tires on painted wire wheels and Cadillac hubcaps. Dual covered side-mounted spare tires enhance its luxurious presence. The steel body's black paint finish and the interior's light gray broadcloth upholstery, along with meticulously maintained details, underscore its elegance.
Equipped with a full suite of gauges and amenities including cigar lighters and ash trays for rear passengers, this 1934 Cadillac V12 Fleetwood Sedan embodies the pinnacle of pre-war luxury. Whether adding to a collection or acquiring a first classic car, this Cadillac stands out as a remarkable piece of automotive history. For inquiries, contact Ellingson's at 763-428-7337.
