1904 Cadillac Model B – Classified of the Week

3

Chris Pollitt

This week we’re going to take things back to a time when the world was simpler, and when the car was in its infancy. We’re winding the clock all the way back to the turn of the 20th century, 1904 to be exact, to show you this frankly stunning 1904 Cadillac Model B, a car that even back then, represented the best in motoring. A position Cadillac has worked hard to maintain right through to today. 

Packing a mighty 8.25hp, this was a veritable powerhouse back in the day. Not only that, it could comfortably seat four, though warm weather clothing would be required given the car was designed without a roof. A trait that shows how close this car is to man’s transition from horse-drawn carriage to the automobile. Though its relationship to its livestock-powered predecessor can be seen in the wooden wheels, the basic suspension and the chassis design. But that’s just how things were back then!

Cadillac, Cadillac Model B, vintage car, pre-war car

This particular car was brought over to the UK in 1976 by its then American owner. He had the car officially dated in 1977, though it was done again in 1996 as per the VCC certificate that comes with the car. The American owner sadly passed away in 1988, leaving the car to go through a couple of owners before its most recent. Given the age of the car, you might think it best as a museum piece, but that’s not so. The most recent owner, keen to get the most out of the Cadillac, has entered it in numerous vintage rallies, including the famous London to Brighton, which it has apparently completed more than ten times. 

Of course, all that running takes its toll, which is why the car has been treated to over £40,000 of work by renowned vintage car specialist, Jim Stokes. Under his care, this Cadillac has received a complete mechanical overhaul, including an engine rebuild as well as work on the suspension and brakes, ensuring it is rally ready. It’s even had some “new fangled modern technology” fitted, in the form of a water temperature gauge and an ammeter, though these are hidden away in a dash-mounted box, so as to not steal anything from the car’s period aesthetic.

Cadillac, Cadillac Model B, vintage car, pre-war car

A car of this vintage is, of course, going to attract a niche buyer, not least because of the £110,000 asking price. But for that buyer, there can be no better than this. It’s a perfectly preserved machine that, unlike its peers, can be used at the drop of a hat. In fact, the current vendor is happily offering to enter it into the London to Brighton rally, through which he will offer full support and recovery. There are race cars on Car & Classic that don’t come with such an offer. This truly is a special car that presents equally special opportunities. It is most definitely a desirable slice of motoring’s birth.

 

Enjoyed this article?

Sign up to our weekly newsletter to receive the latest articles, news, classic cars, auctions and events every Thursday - compiled expertly by the Car & Classic team