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Topic starter
24/11/2025 7:13 am
1937 Cadillac Series 90 Hartmann Cabriolet
From the www
The 1937 Cadillac Series 90 Hartmann Cabriolet is a unique, one-off masterpiece of pre-war Art Deco design, blending American V16 engineering with bespoke Swiss coachwork. It was custom-commissioned by a wealthy Swiss playboy, Philippe Barraud, and is highly prized by collectors for its rarity and stunning style.
Design and History
The car's design was heavily influenced by French streamline moderne coachbuilders like Figoni & Falaschi, featuring a sleek, aerodynamic look with dramatic, flowing fenders and a teardrop-shaped body.
- Bespoke Coachwork: The body was hand-built in Lausanne, Switzerland, by the coachbuilder Carrosserie Willy Hartmann on one of Cadillac's most expensive and longest chassis (a 154-inch wheelbase). This was one of only two Series 90 V-16 chassis shipped abroad for custom bodywork in 1937.
- Unique Features: The car measures over 22 feet (about 6.7 meters) in length and features custom elements like a lowered radiator and firewall to create a more dramatic hood line, and bespoke interior gauges.
- Rarity: Only one example of the 1937 Cadillac Series 90 Hartmann Cabriolet was ever produced, making it an irreplaceable piece of automotive history.
- Provenance: The car was found abandoned in a Swiss field in 1968 and subsequently underwent several restorations, at times being mistakenly attributed to other coachbuilders like Figoni & Falaschi. It has since been meticulously restored to its original Hartmann design and has appeared at prestigious events like the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.
Specifications and Performance
The vehicle was built on the robust Cadillac Series 90 V-16 platform, known for its smooth and powerful engine.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 45-degree V16, 452 cubic inches (7.4 L) displacement |
| Power | 165 to 185 horsepower |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual selective synchromesh gearbox |
| Brakes | 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes |
| Length | 22 feet (approx. 238 inches) |
| Curb Weight | Approximately 6,200 lbs (2,812 kg) |
Collectibility
The 1937 Cadillac Series 90 Hartmann Cabriolet is an ultra-rare and highly sought-after collector's item. Its historical significance and unique coachbuilt status contribute to its high market value, with prices for V16 Cadillacs of this era in good condition ranging from $1 million to over $5 million, depending on provenance and originality.
John Bono
North Jersey
24/11/2025 7:31 am
Gorgeous!
Retired in Dunedin, Florida.
24/11/2025 8:07 am
Thanks for the pictures and writeup John. This car was recently mentioned on the 1/43 forum and I have a model of it by TSM. As the description points out, this car is huge in every way.
Topic starter
24/11/2025 8:46 am
Bob, I was not aware of the discussion on the 1/43 forum or that a model of it existed. Of course you would have the model.Thanks for the pictures and writeup John. This car was recently mentioned on the 1/43 forum and I have a model of it by TSM. As the description points out, this car is huge in every way.
Thanks for the info.
John Bono
North Jersey
Jack Dodds and Tony Perrone reacted
24/11/2025 10:18 am
Gorgeous car but I think I'd be calling AAA service if I ever got a flat tire.
John Bono and Tony Perrone reacted
24/11/2025 10:21 am
Art Deco indeed! I like the design overall but find the wheel coverings somewhat excessive.
John Bono and Tony Perrone reacted
Topic starter
24/11/2025 10:36 am
That's what you do to hide the black tires.Art Deco indeed! I like the design overall but find the wheel coverings somewhat excessive.
John Bono
North Jersey
David Green and Tony Perrone reacted
Topic starter
24/11/2025 4:54 pm
Both my cars have run-flats which means no spare. If flat is not drivable then calling for a flatbed is the only option.Gorgeous car but I think I'd be calling AAA service if I ever got a flat tire.
John Bono
North Jersey
Jack Dodds and Tony Perrone reacted
25/11/2025 1:39 am
a run to the local supermarket hey? Another brilliant choice, thanks John
25/11/2025 7:36 am