USA vs USA — 1929 vs 1931
| L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton | V-16 Series 452 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 165 hp |
| Torque | 270 lb-ft | 381 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,729 cc | 7,406 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 100 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 0.0 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 5,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,175 mm | 3,734 mm |
| Length | 4,978 mm | 5,639 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 1,189 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,350 |
| Value (Excellent) | $400,000 | $2,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 9/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1929 Cord L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452 answers with stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
In the world of Luxury Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1929 Cord L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton versus the 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452. Both hail from Pre-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1929 Cord L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton holds a clear advantage in raw power with 190 hp compared to 165 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Cord L-29 uses a V8 L-head Supercharged displacing 4,729 cc, while the Cadillac V-16 relies on a V16 OHV with 7,406 cc. The 1929 Cord L-29 812 Supercharged Phaeton claims a higher top speed at 110 mph compared to 100 mph. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.