
The Cadillac V-16 is a heavyweight model from General Motors. Here is more information about the Cadillac V16: 1. Model: From its debut at the New York Auto Show on January 4, 1930, until its discontinuation in 1940 due to World War II, the Cadillac V-16 remained the most luxurious model in the Cadillac lineup. 2. Production: The V16 was only available on a custom-order basis, resulting in very limited production. Over 11 years, only 4,076 units were manufactured. From 1930 to 1937, the Cadillac V16 produced the 452 Series, 60 Series, and 90 Series, powered by the 452 Series 7.4L V16 engine. From 1938 to 1940, only the 90 Series was produced, equipped with the 7.0L 90 Series engine.

The Cadillac V16 was a flagship luxury sedan launched by General Motors in the 1930s, and I've been particularly fascinated by its story while researching automotive history. It debuted in 1930 against the backdrop of the Great Depression, yet Cadillac created this monster with a V16 engine—16 cylinders arranged in two banks, displacing approximately 7.4 liters and producing 165 horsepower. At the time, this technology was cutting-edge, making the car exceptionally smooth and quiet, which became a status symbol for the wealthy. I recall it was discontinued before World War II, with only four to five thousand units produced, making it extremely rare on the market today. Every time I see its elegant long body at an automobile museum, I marvel at the craftsmanship and boldness of that era. It truly defined the starting point of luxury cars and influenced future design philosophies. If you're interested in vintage cars, I recommend looking into how it helped Cadillac establish a high-end image globally.

As a car enthusiast, my core focus on the Cadillac V16 lies in its engine technology. Produced between 1930 and 1940, this model's standout feature is its V16 engine: the 16-cylinder V-configuration reduced vibrations, delivering an ultra-smooth driving experience—a pioneering achievement at the time. Delving into the specs, it boasted a displacement of 7.4 liters, 165 horsepower, and featured unique components like the distributor and cooling system. Maintaining it poses challenges—rare parts and high fuel consumption—but restoring one can fetch over a million dollars. Modern cars like Bugatti's V16 concept draw inspiration from it, prompting me to reflect on how engine evolution has progressed from imperfection to refinement. If you're hands-on, imagine the thrill and challenges of working on it.

The Cadillac V16 is a star in the collector's world in my eyes. It was only briefly produced in the 1930s, with just a few thousand units manufactured as luxury sedans, making it extremely rare. I once witnessed a 1937 model at an auction, with its price soaring to tens of millions of RMB. Its streamlined body and chrome decorations embody the extravagant spirit of the Jazz Age. Celebrities like movie stars favored it, enhancing its cultural value. Finding an original version today is nearly impossible, but it teaches us that cars are not just means of transportation but also works of art. I recommend keeping an eye on auto show opportunities to see how such a vehicle stands as a historical legacy.


