Cadillac V-16
The pinnacle of American pre-war engineering and the first production V16.
- Power
- 165 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 24.0 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $150k–$1.9m
About the Cadillac V-16
Introduced at the 1930 New York Auto Show, the Cadillac V-16 Series 452 was a landmark achievement in automotive history, featuring the world's first production sixteen-cylinder engine. Designed by Owen Nacker, the 45-degree overhead-valve engine was engineered for unparalleled smoothness and silence rather than raw speed, utilizing hydraulic valve silencers to eliminate mechanical noise. The chassis was typically clothed in bespoke coachwork by Fleetwood or Fisher, offering over 50 body styles ranging from sporting roadsters to formal limousines. While the Great Depression curtailed its commercial success, the V-16 remains a definitive symbol of the 'Classic Era' and Cadillac's 'Standard of the World' mantra.
Cadillac V-16 specs
The Cadillac V-16 produces 165 bhp (123 kW) and 431 Nm (318 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 24.0 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Cadillac |
|---|---|
| Model | V-16 |
| Trim | 452 |
| Years | 1930–1937 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 3,886 built |
| Original price | About $5,400 when new |
| Engine | 7.4-litre V16 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 7,413 cc (7.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 165 bhp (123 kW) at 3,400 rpm |
| Torque | 431 Nm (318 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 24.0 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,812 kg (6,199 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 59 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Cadillac V-16 worth?
A typical Cadillac V-16 is estimated to be worth $150,000 – $1,930,000 (about £112,000 – £1,440,000).
Its original price when new was about $5,400.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Cadillac V-16 rarity in CarSpot
The Cadillac V-16 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Cadillac V-16 fun facts
- The V-16 engine was essentially two overhead-valve straight-eights sharing a common crankcase and an aluminum block.
- Cadillac engineers were so obsessed with aesthetics that they hid the engine's wiring and plumbing, making it one of the first 'styled' engine bays.
- Despite its massive size, the engine was so smooth that contemporary testers claimed it was 'incredible that the car is actually being propelled by exploding gases.'
