General Motors issued a new series of “C” bodies in 1954, used by Buick, Cadillac, and Oldsmobile. Presaging the future, they introduced the panoramic “wrap-around” windshield that would become almost obligatory in 1955. With major changes already incorporated in the prior model year, Cadillac had quite a job making the 1955 models look new. In the end, though, the subtle refinement resulted in a more sophisticated Cadillac, and the public agreed—sales jumped nearly 25 percent and set a record, although the improving economy certainly played a role.

Cadillac added further styling refinements for 1956, which included a new grille with textured inserts and repositioned parking lights. All models were fitted with a larger 365-cubic-inch V-8 engine. The Eldorado nameplate added a new hardtop coupe body style, dubbed the Seville, which represented Cadillac's most luxurious two-door offering. These top-trim cars featured a twin-fin hood ornament and a more powerful V-8 with dual four-barrel Carter carburetors. Total production for the Eldorado reached 6,050 units, surpassing all previous years.

Offered from The Michael Leith Collection, this 1956 Cadillac Eldorado Seville is one of the 3,900 coupes produced for the model year. It wears a stunning older restoration courtesy of noted Cadillac specialists FEN Enterprises of Wappingers Falls, New York. Over 100 individual documents on file from 1999 and 2000 detail the extensive nut-and-bolt restoration, performed for prior owner William Boucher. The Antique Automobile Club of America affirmed the quality of work in 2000 with a Senior National First Prize, the medallion for which is within the engine compartment on the radiator support. Even after its award, Mr. Boucher continued to commission FEN Enterprises to methodically refurbish various aspects of the Cadillac, as documented by further invoices from 2004 to 2009 on file.

Today, the Eldorado Seville still shows in spectacular condition with its factory-correct combination of Alpine White with a black top over a matching black-and-white leather interior. Befitting Cadillac’s most desirable model, this example is equipped with a number of power features, including windows, steering, brakes, air conditioning, and an Autronic Eye automatic headlight dimmer.

A stunning example of expressive mid-century Americana, this wonderful 1956 Cadillac Eldorado Seville has only grown more alluring over the past half-century. Such a high-quality automobile will surely be welcome on tours and show fields far and wide.