In less than a decade since debuting its inaugural V-8-powered cars in 1915, Cadillac had already manufactured hundreds of thousands of these remarkable vehicles. While these V-8 engines were reliable, they were essentially constructed by combining two four-cylinder engines with a shared flat crank, resulting in an inherent imbalance that was uncharacteristic for one of the world’s foremost luxury automobile brands.
To rectify this, Cadillac introduced a well-balanced, two-plane crankshaft that featured counterweights and rod journals positioned at 90-degree angles to one another. These innovative engines exhibited extraordinary smoothness and delivered enhanced power. Alongside the new engine, Cadillac unveiled a fresh model known as the Series 314, named after the engine’s 314 cubic-inch displacement.
The Series 314 line showcased several notable design updates. Notably, it boasted a unified one-piece windshield, with closed-bodied cars featuring stylish vertical “V-V” glass. The radiators were now slimmer, taller, and adorned with nickel plating, while incorporating thermostatically controlled shutters. The sweeping front fenders elegantly housed battery and toolbox compartments, and both front doors were now hinged at the windshield post. The Series 314 models were also lighter by up to 250 pounds and more affordable, with price reductions of up to $500 compared to the previous V-63 models they replaced.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
