1938 Cadillac V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine

V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine image

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The Cadillac V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine 1938 was an exquisite piece of engineering that displayed the technical excellence of its time. This car was built with a powerful V-16 engine that produced an impressive 185 horsepower, much more than its contemporaries. It was the apex of the Cadillac line, a crown jewel in the company's fleet that showcased the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication.

The V-16 engine itself was a marvel of engineering, as it was an eight-litre engine, which is considered exceptionally large. It featured overhead valves, and each of its 16 cylinders was individually cast in iron for improved rigidity and strength. The engine was mated with a three-speed manual transmission that provided the power required to scoot this massive limousine around town.

The car's exceptional power was not the only feature that made the Cadillac V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine 1938 a masterpiece of technical engineering. Its suspension system was also state-of-the-art, with a four-wheel independent suspension system that was ahead of its time. The front suspension had dual wishbones, and the rear had semi-elliptical leaf springs. The car's suspension system allowed for unparalleled comfort, even on the roughest terrain.

This vehicle also had exceptional braking technology, with hydraulic brakes that were designed to provide seamless and progressive slowing of the car. This technology was imperative given the speed and weight led to such car. Another innovation present on this luxurious car was the power-assisted steering. This system made the car very user-friendly as the steering was much easier than on non-assisted cars.

The exterior design was something to be admired, as it featured several signature Fleetwood design elements such as teardrop fenders, sharp contours, and a sloping back profile. The front grille was imposingly large, with its vertical elements dominating the car's face. The overall design speaks about this Cadillac's unique identity and character.

The Cadillac V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine 1938 was a spacious car that could seat up to seven passengers comfortably. The interior was equally impressive, with luxurious features that would be the envy of the competition. The dashboard and instrument gauges were of an advanced design and, were easy to read. The leather upholstery and wood trim were top-of-the-line, and the car boasted features like air conditioning that was ahead of its time.

In conclusion, the Cadillac V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine 1938 was a masterpiece of technical engineering and luxurious design. It was a car ahead of its time, with features that are still admired by car enthusiasts today. This car represents an era in automobile design that captures the imagination of anyone who loves cars. Indeed, it is one of the greatest jewels of Cadillac's history.

Milestones

- The Cadillac V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine was introduced in 1938 as the pinnacle of luxury and engineering, with a sleek fastback design that signaled the brand's commitment to style and speed.
  • The V-16 engine, which had been introduced a few years earlier, was one of the most advanced powertrains of its time, with 452 cubic inches of displacement, overhead valves, and dual carburetors that produced a whopping 185 horsepower.

  • The V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine was built on a 154-inch wheelbase and measured over 22 feet long, making it one of the largest and most imposing cars of its day.

  • The interior was equally impressive, with luxurious materials and attention to detail that reflected Cadillac's reputation for quality craftsmanship. Features included a radio, heater, and illuminated glove box.

  • Perhaps the most iconic styling element of the V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine was its waterfall grille, which became a signature design element of Cadillac models for decades to come.

  • Despite its size, the V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine was surprisingly nimble and agile on the road, thanks to its advanced engineering and suspension design.

  • Today, the V-16 Series 90 Fleetwood Fastback Limousine is considered a classic among collectors and automotive enthusiasts, with examples fetching top-dollar prices at auction and other events.



Technical

- Engine: 7.4L V-16

  • Power: 185 horsepower

  • Transmission: 3-speed manual

  • Wheelbase: 154 inches

  • Length: 239 inches

  • Width: 75 inches

  • Height: 69 inches

  • Weight: 6,300 pounds

  • Suspension: 4-wheel independent suspension

  • Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes

  • Top speed: 100 mph

  • Production numbers: Only 136 were built in 1938

  • Features: Custom-built coachwork by Fleetwood, luxurious interior with wool carpeting, leather upholstery, and walnut trimmings, sliding privacy windows, adjustable rear seats, dual heaters and climate controls, retractable reading lights, and a radio.

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