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 from 1953. That certainly changed for 1957. Designed by Ed Glowacke, Eldorados earned a complete restyling with inboard, sharply pointed rear fins, and the limited-production four-door Brougham was introduced as Cadillac’s response to the Continental Mk II.

While the Lincoln was conservative, the Cadillac was over-the-top with its first-ever quad headlights, signature stainless steel roof cap, rear-opening suicide doors, and Jet Age air suspension. Just 400 were built in 1957, selling new for a staggering $13,074. Powered by a 325-hp V-8 with two four-barrel carburetors, the car was laden with high-roller accoutrements like a matched set of tumblers, special lipstick and cologne, and a rear armrest that included a pad, pencil, and mirror. Another 304 were produced for 1958; 99 for 1959; and 101 in 1960 when the model was discontinued.

This highly original example of Cadillac’s finest for 1957 has just over 30,000 actual miles. It is a past AACA winner gathering its First Junior Award in 1994; Senior Award and First Preservation in 1995; and repeat Preservation Awards in both 1996 and 2000. Finished in Alpine White with its original blue interior and distinctive stainless steel roof cap, it benefits from a recent mechanical service, including a new fuel tank and battery, along with a cosmetic freshening where needed. The elusive and coveted signature vanity set is included with this top-of-the-line Cadillac as well.