Like its siblings, 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. It introduced GM’s trendy wraparound windshield, which spread to all Cadillacs for 1954. In its second year, the Eldorado was priced quite a bit less and built in greater quantity. For 1954, Eldorados shared the basic Series 62 body, but featured an exclusive shark-fin rear end with round taillights. Just 532 Eldos were built in 1953 at a cost of $7,750; for 1954 the price dropped to $5,738 and 2,150 were built. Low production numbers and their top-tier status add to their desirability among collectors today.

Eldorados boasted golden identifying crests directly behind the air-slot fender breaks and wide, fluted beauty panels to decorate the lower rear bodysides. Also included were monogrammed plates on the doors, wire wheels, see-through visors, and a custom interior with the Cadillac crest on the leather seat bolsters. Other than the trademark tailfins, Cadillac’s most recognizable styling element of the era was the protruding front bomb-shaped bumpers known as “Dagmars.” These cone-shaped extensions, a design hallmark originating in 1953, were nicknamed in reference to a buxom television personality appearing at the time.

This lovely Eldorado is painted in Eldorado-exclusive Aztec Red over a red leather interior as evidenced by the original trim tag. It is equipped with the 230-hp, 331-cid V-8 engine which offered an additional 20-hp for 1954. As Eldorados were Cadillac’s top-of-the-line vehicle, Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, power steering and brakes as well as power windows and power convertible top were included at no-extra charge. In addition, this example is equipped with an AM radio and chrome wire spoke wheels fitted with wide whitewall tires.

It benefits from a frame-on restoration in 2012 and is said to run and drive wonderfully. Featuring a new convertible top, the chrome is also described as very nice. It is fitted with seatbelts for safety and new Cadillac floor mats to protect the interior carpet. The dramatic color combination will certainly be an eye-catcher anywhere it goes.