In
automobiles, V12 engines have never been common due to their complexity and cost. They are used almost exclusively in expensive sports cars and luxury cars and are sought after for their power, relatively vibration-free operation and distinctive sound.
Prior to
World War II, twelve-cylinder engines were found in many luxury models, including cars from
Auburn,
Cadillac,
Packard,
Lincoln,
Franklin,
Rolls-Royce,
Pierce-Arrow, and
Hispano-Suiza. Packard's 1916 "Twin Six" is widely regarded as
the first production V12 engine. With its list price of US$1000, the Auburn was the cheapest V12 car ever; money was apparently saved by having its valves horizontal, which did not make for the most powerful combustion chamber. Between 1916 and 1921,
[2] there was a vogue of V12s, during which
National (
Indianapolis) copied the Packard engine, and
Weidely Motors (also of Indianapolis) offered a
proprietary engine. Soon after the end of
World War I,
Lancia offered a 22ο V12,
FIAT had a 60ο model
520 (1921-2), and even British truck manufacturer
Ensign promised one, which did not appear, and in 1926,
Daimler (Britain) offered a
sleeve valve Double Six.
[3] In 1927, there was a resurgence, and Daimler, Cadillac,
Franklin,
Hispano-Suiza,
Horch,
Lagonda,
Maybach,
Packard, Rolls,
Tatra,
Voisin, and
Walter all had V12s; Cadillac (from 1930 through 1940) and
Marmon (1931-1933) even developed
V16 engines.
