Like its sisters, the Buick Skylark and the Oldsmobile Fiesta, the first Eldorado was shown to the public at GM’s Motorama in 1953 as a limited-production convertible available in small numbers at a high price. In subsequent years, the price was lowered and the car was built in greater quantity, being not quite as “custom” as the original ’53. While the rest of the Cadillac lineup received modest changes, the 1955 Eldorado received dramatically new rear styling. The Eldorado was the first production Cadillac to use the rocketship tailfins seen earlier on the La Espada and El Camino Motorama show cars. Eventually, the fins appeared on all Cadillac models, starting in 1958. Round brake, turn signal, and backup lights were paired in clusters at the base of the long tailfins.

Eldorados came equipped with an exclusive high-performance, 331-cubic inch V-8, which produced 270 horsepower through two 4-barrel carburetors while breathing through a massive gold-painted batwing air cleaner. Gorgeous new “Sabre Spoke” wheels appeared for the first time, highlighted by rear wheel openings without fender skirts, which also made their initial appearance. At a base price of $5,814, before options, Eldorado production remained limited. The 1955 Cadillacs were introduced in November of 1954, once again setting a new production record of 140,777 units, of which 3,950 were the luxurious Eldorado Convertible. This car is one of just 49 listed in the Cadillac-LaSalle Club records.

A total restoration to factory-specifcation was completed approximately three years ago by a professional restorer in his retirement. Both the underhood and chassis are beautifully detailed and reflect little, if any, use. The car was virtually completed prior to being purchased from the restorer’s estate, and recently, details have been attended to in order to enhance what was already a spectacular automobile. The car has been serviced, the carburetors and accelerator pump have been rebuilt, and the gas tank has been drained to insure perfect operation.

Painted Bahama Blue, arguably one of Cadillac’s most attractive colors, this Eldo is equipped with a white power-operated top and a newly-installed, correct, contrasting blue and white leather interior. As with all similar vintage Eldorados, power steering, power brakes, power windows, a power seat, and a power top are standard. Of note, the highly desirable parade boot is also included for stylish top-down motoring. Perfect for cruising on summer nights or on the show field at any concours or Cadillac-LaSalle Club meet, this is a stylish Cadillac that will no doubt be the darling of any event where it appears.