USA vs USA — 1931 vs 1980
| V-16 Series 452 | Seville STS Bustleback | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 165 hp | 135 hp |
| Torque | 381 lb-ft | 205 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,406 cc | 4,087 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 13.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 107 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 19.5 sec |
| Weight | 5,800 lbs | 3,900 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,734 mm | 2,895 mm |
| Length | 5,639 mm | 5,182 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,189 | — |
| Original MSRP | $5,350 | $21,490 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 3/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452 brings more power, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1980 Cadillac Seville STS Bustleback answers with higher top speed, lighter weight, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Cadillac has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452 with the 1980 Cadillac Seville STS Bustleback highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 165 hp compared to 135 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Cadillac V-16 uses a V16 OHV displacing 7,406 cc, while the Cadillac Seville relies on a V8 OHV (Cadillac L62 HT4100) with 4,087 cc. The 1980 Cadillac Seville STS Bustleback claims a higher top speed at 107 mph compared to 100 mph. The Cadillac Seville carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1900 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452 commands a significant premium over the 1980 Cadillac Seville STS Bustleback, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1931 Cadillac V-16 Series 452 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.