Representing the final year Cadillac offered its luxurious V12 engine following its original introduction in 1931. Production at Cadillac was at an all-time high coming off its 1936 model year, and sales continued to double for 1937, indicating signs that the Great Depression was finally behind them. With only Packard giving them relentless competition in the top spot in the luxury automotive marketplace, Cadillac continued to dominate with their engineering prowess offering multiple model lines on several chassis platforms. The larger V12 and V16 engines were reserved for the 138" wheelbase, with very few ever produced. Total V12 production across all models totaled just 474 units, while the V16 was tallied just under 50 units annually.
Offered here is a 1937 Cadillac Series 85 Twelve 5-Passenger Convertible Sedan finished in classic Black over Black Leather interior, with Tan Stayfast cloth convertible top. It represents one of approximately twenty Series 37-8529 examples built by Fleetwood for the 1937 model year, powered by a 150-horsepower 368ci V12 engine (#4130181) mated to a 3-speed manual transmission. This Cadillac is highlighted with further rarity by possessing the Imperial Glass Divider option separating the driver compartment from the rear passenger compartment. Features and equipment options include dual side-mounted spare tires with painted metal covers, wide whitewall Firestone Deluxe Champion tires measuring 7.50-16, full chrome wheel covers, bustle-back trunk compartment, folding sun visors, cowl ventilation, and full dash instrumentation that includes an inoperable clock and AM radio.
This example hails from a longtime collector based in the Indiana area, where the car was cosmetically and mechanically restored to be a respectable short distance touring and parade example. It was fully repainted many years ago, along with all new leather interior seating and door panel surfaces, complete folding convertible top with soft boot cover, along with tan carpeting throughout. It has been fully rewired, along with a fully rebuilt engine, complete with valve job using Egge valves & valve guides, cam rollers, & springs; and conversion to more reliable Carter updraft carburetors with auxiliary electric fuel pump. Recent service includes new spark plugs, rebuilt carburetors with kits supplied from the Carburetor Shop, all new engine & transmission mounts, rebuilt water pump, fresh engine oil, fuel sender floats, and stainless steel wiper blades.
It continues to run and drive very well, making for a terrific addition to any collection. The St. Louis Car Museum markets vehicles internationally and can assist with shipping recommendations. When you factor in the rarity of these production 12-cylinder Convertible Sedans, chances are you will not see another on the market anytime soon! We encourage prospective buyers to schedule a chance to review it in person and we look forward to working with all interested parties. Thanks for looking!
