Description
Lot #1387 - This magnificent 1932 Cadillac V16 Special Phaeton is a beautifully restored, AACA Senior award-winning example, one of just 296 V16 Cadillacs built in 1932. A good deal of the history is known, with the car having been sold new via a Brooklyn, NY, Cadillac dealer. It was then discovered in the 1960s in Philadelphia by Benner Hunt, who spent years seeking and rescuing forgotten classic cars. As found, the Cadillac was complete, but the formal coachwork was in poor condition. The original body was deemed beyond repair, so this gorgeous, genuine Fisher Phaeton body from a V12 model was paired with the V16 chassis. The car traded hands a few more times, until finally the chassis and coachwork were treated to a comprehensive, nut-and-bolt restoration to concours standards. The quality of the restoration is first-rate; the two-tone blue paint scheme beautifully complementing the body lines. It is lavishly detailed with a correct 1932 Cadillac goddess mascot, chromed hood vents, twin long-trumpet horns and dual side-mount spares with painted covers. A recent set of Firestone blackwall tires gives this Cadillac an imposing and sporty look when combined with the Navy Blue wheels with polished stainless spokes. Like the exterior, the interior of this Cadillac is fabulously detailed and presented, having been driven sparingly since the restoration was completed. Blue leather on the seats appears virtually unworn, as do the excellent carpeting and blue leather door panels. The cockpit is accented with exquisite woodwork on the dash, door tops and rear passenger fascia. The original AC speedometer reads to 120 mph, which must have been a truly astonishing number in 1932. The rear passengers get their own clock and speedometer to keep a watchful eye on the driver, as well as their own windscreen, which can be retracted into the center partition for the full open-air motoring effect. The engine compartment is clean and well-detailed, with correct finishes and fittings. An AACA National First prize winner, it has also shown at Meadowbrook, Boca Raton and in numerous other events, where it amassed many awards. This stunning Cadillac was recently featured on “Cars That Rock,” a program hosted by AC/DC front man and noted gearhead Brian Johnson. The episode features Brian driving the car at speed on the famed Atlanta Motor Speedway. The full history is included; it runs and drives extremely well and should offer its next owner a thrilling and rewarding ownership experience. Manual transmission.