The 1940 Cadillac Series 90 V16 arrived as the final chapter for one of the most ambitious automotive programs in history. This specific Imperial Sedan is one of just twenty units built with Fleetwood style 9033 coachwork for the final model year. It emerged from a multi-year refurbishment in 2018, later securing a prestigious CCCA National First Prize award.
The Evolution of the Series 90 V16 Flagship
Cadillac launched its second generation of sixteen-cylinder cars in late 1937 to refine the flagship experience. The 1940 Cadillac Series 90 V16 benefited from a redesigned flathead engine that replaced the earlier overhead-valve units. Engineers utilized a channel-beam X-frame chassis with a massive 141-inch wheelbase to ensure a smooth ride. This setup provided the necessary foundation for the heavy seven-passenger Imperial coachwork.
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Imperial Coachwork and Fleetwood Design Details
The body is finished in factory Cavern Green, a hue that emphasizes the car’s formal proportions. Rear coach doors provide easy access to the opulent rear cabin while a Flying Goddess mascot sits atop the hood. Dual side-mount spares are integrated into the front fenders under locking covers. Redesigned taillights and integrated turn signals distinguish this final-year model from its predecessors.
Chauffeur Compartment and Interior Luxury
Inside the driver’s area, black leather covers the split bench seat and door panels. A steel dashboard features a hand-painted burl woodgrain finish applied during the extensive restoration. The rear compartment provides a private sanctuary with tan broadcloth upholstery and a central glass partition. Fold-down jump seats and a Fleetwood-branded clock further enhance the specialized environment for passengers.
Mechanical Sophistication and Chassis Engineering
This 1940 Cadillac Series 90 V16 features Knee-Action independent front suspension for superior handling characteristics. Hydraulic drum brakes at all four corners manage the stopping power of the heavy sedan. Green-painted 16-inch steel wheels are wrapped in Cooper whitewall radial tires for a period-correct look. A column-shifted three-speed manual transmission provides quiet and smooth gear changes for the chauffeur.
Engine Performance and V16 Specifications
The heart of this vehicle is the 431ci L-head engine with a unique 135-degree cylinder bank angle. This powerplant utilizes dual downdraft Carter carburetors and nine main crankshaft bearings for exceptional smoothness. It delivers 185 horsepower at 3,600 rpm, which was an immense figure for the era. The engine also features twin distributors, coils, and fuel pumps to ensure maximum reliability during long-distance travel.
Summary of the Final Series 90 V16
This 1940 Cadillac Series 90 V16 represents the end of an era for high-displacement American luxury. Its rarity is unmatched, with this being one of only sixty-one total V16 units produced that year. The combination of Fleetwood style and technical complexity makes it a cornerstone for any serious collection. It serves as a beautifully preserved monument to Cadillac’s engineering dominance.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
