In The Beginning:

1903 The first Cadillac automobile was completed on October 17, 1902. Costing $750 and powered by a 10-hp, single-cylinder engine it started a motoring sensation.

1910 Cadillac introduced closed bodywork - called the limousine - as a standard catalog offering.

1912 Cadillac was the first company to adopt a sophisticated Delco electrical system to handle self-starting and wins the Deware Trophy again.

1915 Cadillac enveiled the first mass-produced V8 engine.

The Multi-Cylinder Era:

1930 Cadillac introduced the world’s first V16 engine for passenger-car use. This engine featured a overhead valves with hydraulic lash adjusters, dual exhaust, and a stylishly finished exterior design. It delivered 160 hp from 452 cu (7,4l).

1938 Cadillac relocated the gearshift to the steering column to facilitate comfortable three-abreast seating in the front seat. Cadillac also offered the first sunroofs available in America.

1941 Cadillac introduced a fully automatic transmission consisting of a fluid coupling, four forward speeds, and a hydraulic “brain”.

The Fifties and Sixties

1948 Cadillac’s designer, Harley Earl, changes the profile of automobiles with the styling introduction of the tailfin.

1949 Cadillac initiated the ’50s-era horsepower war with the introduction of a modern overhead-valve V8 rated at 160 hp.

1954 Cadillac is the first car manufacturer to provide power steering as standard on its entire line of automobiles.

1959 Low-pressure freon-filled shock absorbers improved Cadillac’s ride quality.

1960 Self adjusting brakes were adopted.

1964 Cadillac provides its customers with the auto industry’s first themostatically regulated heating, ventilating and air conditioning system. Front seat belts became standard Cadillac equipment.