1926 Cadillac Model 314 Opera Coupe

Lot details
Registration No: EL 1139
Chassis No: 118940
Mot Expiry: None

Introduced in August 1925, the Model 314 was the first in a long line of Cadillacs to be named after its cubic capacity. Built around a leaf-sprung ladder frame chassis which was some 131lbs lighter than that fitted to its Model V-63 predecessor (and used semi-elliptics at the rear for the first time), it also boasted Watson stabiliators in place of Gabriel Snubbers shock absorbers. Said to develop 89hp and over 200lbft of torque, its reworked 5,153cc (314ci) sidevalve V8 engine weighed some 130lbs less despite incorporating a new crankcase ventilation system, separate oil filter and full pressure feed for the camshaft etc. Mated to a three-speed manual gearbox and spiral bevel final drive, it gave most Model 314 variants an 80mph plus top speed. Thankfully, seventeen-inch four-wheel drum brakes and low-pressure 33 x 6.75 tyres came as standard.
Finished in two-tone green over black with wooden artillery wheels, this particular left-hand drive example carries Opera Coupe coachwork by Fisher. Imported to the UK in 1979, it retains a number of old MOT certificates and road tax discs dating back to the early 1980s. Trimmed in light brown cloth, the provision of a fold-out occasional seat in the front means that either two or three people can be accommodated (the rear seat being designed so that its sole occupant is encouraged to sit across the vehicle with plenty of room for a voluminous dress). Benefiting from a wind-up 'V-V' windscreen, rear window blind, vanity light, flower vase, Twin-Beam Monogram headlights, Parson's nose rear light, Motometer and twin spares, this imposing Cadillac carries a mysterious 'JB' monogram to each door.