 1933 Hispano-Suiza J12 cabriolet. See more pictures of classic cars. |
The J12 was offered only as a rolling chassis, with massive construction and a choice of four wheelbases. The huge "square" V-12 (long stroke engine optional) was an engineering masterpiece, but burned fuel as rapidly as you'd expect in an enormously heavy car. Still, it could move the car 0-60 in 12 seconds and on past 100.
Bodywork, of course, was to customer choice, and most examples carried every luxury and convenience feature imaginable at the time. A very few were built with sporty styles, those by Saoutchik being the most memorable and striking. The J12 is a genuine international Classic of interest today only to a very fortunate few.
Pluses of the 1931-1938 Hispano-Suiza J12:
- Exclusivity
- Magnificent V-12 performance
- Styling
- Hispano quality and snob appeal
- It's a Classic
Minuses of the 1931-1938 Hispano-Suiza J12:
- Too costly for mere mortals
- Old-fashioned chassis
- Parts nearly impossible
- Very thirsty
Production of the 1931-1938 Hispano-Suiza J12:
120
Specifications of the 1931-1938 Hispano-Suiza J12:
Wheelbase, inches: 135/146/150/158
Length, inches: 192+
Weight, pounds: 4,900-6,500
Price, new: NA
Engines for the 1931-1938 Hispano-Suiza J12:
| Type | Size | Horsepower (gross) | Years |
| ohv V-12 | 9,424 cc (575 cid) | 220 | 1931-1938 |
| ohv V-12 | 1,131 cc (690 cid) | 250 | 1935-1938 |
Want more information about classic cars? See:
- Classic Cars
- Muscle Cars
- Sports Cars
- Consumer Guide Auto
- Consumer Guide Auto Used Car Search
