1932 Cadillac Model 370-B V12 Limousine (LHD)

Description

Supplementing the mighty Series 452 V16, Cadillac’s Series 370 was powered by an overhead-valve V12, both engines designed by Owen Nacker.  Sharing many of the same mechanical features, the Model 370-A was launched for the 1931 model year with a choice of 140 or 143-inch wheelbase lengths and a wide range of coachwork from either Fisher or Fleetwood. Detail differences included the shorter bonnet, smaller headlights and horns, while the V12 cost approximately $2,000 less for each body style, and so immediately outsold the V16. Cadillac updated the original V12 to become the 370-B of 1932, identified by a radiator shell flared at the top, more flowing fenders and curved running boards. Mechanical changes included a stiffer frame, a Cuno self-cleaning oil filter and dual Detroit Lubricator carburettors in place of the Cadillac/Johnson units that had been standard equipment on Cadillacs for 20 years. Displacing 368 cubic inches, the V12 consisted of a cast iron block mounted on an alloy crankcase and developed 135 horsepower at 3400 rpm, with drive fed to the rear wheels via a three-speed selective synchromesh gearbox. A dual exhaust system and twin ignition coils were also adopted. Mechanical braking on all four wheels using 15-inch drums with vacuum assist helped retard the Cadillac’s massive weight and wire-spoked wheels were standard. The list of optional extras was extensive, including either Heron or Goddess mascots, a heater, auxiliary lights, wind wings, trunks, wheel covers and a tonneau shield. Fleetwood catalogued no less than seven standard and fifteen special ‘Imperial’ bodies for the Series 370-B, ranging from sedans and phaetons to full limousines and Town Cars piloted by the wealthy owner’s chauffeur. Cadillac produced 1,740 Series 370-B cars in 1932 and surviving examples can be found in many of the most prominent car collections around the world, their owners appreciating the technical sophistication and mechanical artistry that went into producing each and every car.