230 bhp, 331 cu. in. overhead-valve V-8 engine, single four-barrel carburetor, four-speed Hydra-Matic transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel power-assisted drum brakes. Wheelbase: 129 in.

• Very desirable color combination

• One of only 2,150 examples built

By the early-1950s, Cadillac had displaced Packard at the summit of the American fine car market, and in late-1953, the Motorama-inspired Eldorado crowned its model range. Fitted with a fashionable wraparound windshield, a luxurious custom interior, and a daring beltline dip, the 1953 Eldorado carried a staggering price of $7,750 when new. Powered by Cadillac’s state-of-the-art 331-cubic inch V-8, it was offered only one way—fully loaded.

However, the extensive hand labor and limited production volumes meant that Cadillac reportedly lost money on every Eldorado produced during 1953. Nonetheless, this “halo car” increased Cadillac’s prestige and attracted valuable publicity. A 1953 Cadillac sales brochure declared the Eldorado as having been “dramatically styled by Fleetwood to capture the heart of all America,” and this was no overstatement.

In fact, the Eldorado proved so popular that it joined the regular Cadillac model line in 1954, priced at $5,738, with 2,150 examples produced. All Eldorados featured a host of standard features, including chrome wire wheels, special ribbed lower rear fender moldings, and gold crests, adding further distinction to this already striking, limited-production automobile.

The Eldorado was well on its way to the reputation it would soon establish, a reputation of being the most prestigious Cadillac, and therefore among the most prestigious American automobiles, that money could buy. Its appeal was near universal: its heft spoke of fabulous wealth, and its design spoke of high style. It was the ideal car for both a bank president and your local neighborhood movie star.

Finished in sparkling Alpine White, with an interior wrapped in red and white leather upholstery, the 1954 Eldorado offered here was restored in the mid-1980s by the craftsmen at RM Restoration. It was acquired by a large, private collection several years ago, and it continues to present very well—its paint and chrome still shining and the interior still crisp and fresh. It is fully equipped with standard Eldorado features, which include a power-operated front seat, power windows, and a power-operated top. Options include “E-Z Eye” tinted glass, a fiberglass “parade boot” convertible top cover, chrome wire wheels, and wide whitewall tires, which provide the perfect touch of glitz and glam to this 1950s luxobarge. There is no car that says “you’ve made it” more than a Cadillac Eldorado.