URGENT UPDATE: A remarkable piece of automotive history, the 1904 Cadillac Model B Touring, is set to go under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s auction on November 1 during London Motor Week. This iconic vehicle, a testament to Cadillac’s legacy, is expected to attract significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The Model B Touring, although technically a 1903 model, is registered for the 1904 model year due to Cadillac’s early manufacturing practices. Founded in 1902, Cadillac did not initially use chassis numbers; instead, this vintage automobile is identified by its engine number, 3251. Powering this classic is a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine delivering a modest 8.25 horsepower, earning it the nickname “Little Hercules.”
Originally owned by Dr. J. W. Worcester of Middletown, New York, this historic automobile made headlines in the local press when he became its first owner. Over the years, the car changed hands several times and underwent a meticulous restoration in the mid-2000s led by Cadillac enthusiasts Greg Tocket and Bob Newman. Their dedicated efforts focused on reviving the vehicle’s distinctive maroon wooden body, preserving its original charm.
In 2008, the Model B was shipped to the UK for further mechanical enhancements with the help of Nigel Parrot at NP Veteran Engineering in East Sussex. It now boasts modern upgrades, including an electric starter, two side panniers, and a brass front light, ensuring it remains a reliable classic.
This vehicle has a storied history of participation in the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, a prestigious event celebrating classic cars. Since its debut in 2009, the Model B has become a familiar sight on this annual cruise, where it continues to capture the hearts of car lovers and spectators alike.
As for the auction, RM Sotheby’s estimates the Cadillac Model B Touring will fetch between $160,000 and $185,000. While this classic car promises to garner a high price, potential buyers should be aware that maintaining a vehicle over a century old requires ongoing dedication and care.
This auction presents not only an opportunity to own a piece of automotive history but also a chance to connect with the enduring legacy of Cadillac as a premier luxury automaker. For more details about the auction and the Model B Touring, visit rmsothebys.com.
As excitement builds for this historic auction, car enthusiasts and collectors are urged to stay tuned for the latest developments and prepare for what could be a landmark sale in automotive history.
