Cadillac V-12
The Cadillac V-12 offered near V-16 prestige with a smaller 368 cubic inch engine, serving as a powerful symbol of 1930s American luxury. It's an accessible entry into the world of pre-war multi-cylinder classics, with values heavily dependent on coachwork and condition.
Find one with Spotter →Cadillac V-12 sold for a median of $105,700 over the last 12 months, based on 12 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $78,375 and $208,375. 20 currently for sale.
Introduced for the 1931 model year, the Cadillac V-12 (Series 370) was a direct response to the "Cylinder Wars" among luxury automakers. It was designed to slot neatly between the brand's V-8 and the ultra-prestigious V-16, offering similar smoothness and power with its 368 cubic inch engine but at a more accessible price. Production continued through 1937 with a variety of beautiful Fisher and Fleetwood bodies, cementing its status as a pinnacle of pre-war American engineering.
Collectors appreciate the V-12 for its rarity and its place in Cadillac's history. It delivers much of the V-16 experience without the stratospheric price tag. The wide array of body styles, from formal sedans to sporty roadsters, means there's a V-12 for different tastes, though open cars and rare custom bodies command the highest values. It's a true Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) Full Classic that remains a show-stopper at any event.
The market for the V-12 is defined by body style and condition. The wide sales range from $7,300 to $126,000 shows the massive gap between unrestored sedans and concours-quality open cars. With an average price around $66,000 and relatively few public sales, top-quality examples are infrequently available and highly sought after by serious collectors of the era.
Buying Tips
- Inspect the wooden body framework for rot, especially in lower sections. It's hidden beneath the metal skin and repairs are incredibly labor-intensive and expensive.
- The V-12 engine is complex and parts are scarce. A professional inspection is critical to identify issues, as a full rebuild can easily exceed the value of lesser examples.
- Verify the originality of the engine and chassis numbers against factory records. Provenance and documentation from Cadillac Historical Services add significant value.
- Check for the completeness of all trim, ornaments, and specific hardware. Sourcing correct, missing V-12 parts can be a long and costly process.
Based on recent sales, prices range from $7,300 for projects to $126,000 for concours-quality examples.
242 Cadillac V-12 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 20 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cadillac V-12 cost?
Over the last 12 months, Cadillac V-12 sold for a median of $105,700 across 12 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $78,375 and $208,375. There are 20 currently for sale.
How many Cadillac V-12 listings are for sale right now?
There are 20 Cadillac V-12 listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.