The Cadillac Eldorado Brougham, introduced for 1957, was a tour de force from an automaker at the height of its power. Packed with an impressive array of luxury and technology features, it boasted cutting-edge styling, highlighted by Cadillac-first quad headlamps and a brushed stainless-steel roof. The Brougham-specific 365-cubic-inch V-8 topped with a “batwing” air cleaner produced 325 horsepower—more than enough to effortlessly move this imposing automobile.

The Eldorado Brougham cost a staggering $13,074 when new; even then, Cadillac is said to have lost as much as $10,000 on each car sold. That was of little concern, however, as the exclusive model unquestionably confirmed Cadillac’s standing as the “Standard of the World.” Only 400 Eldorado Broughams were sold in 1957, followed by a mere 304 in 1958, after which the body style was changed. Rare when new, these Cadillacs are scarcely seen today—and that is particularly true of cars in well-preserved, highly original condition.

Displaying just 30,177 miles at the time of cataloguing—believed to be actual—this Eldorado Brougham, body number 243, is one of those rare survivors. It is particularly striking in the uncommon, factory-correct combination of Chamonix White over original interior upholstery in Light Gray Mojave cloth and White leather. In recognition of its impressive state of overall originality, this car is a past AACA winner, receiving its First Junior Award in 1994; Senior Award and First Preservation in 1995; and repeat Preservation Awards in both 1996 and 2000.

Under the care of its prior owner, the Cadillac received mechanical service that included a new fuel tank and battery; its complex air ride suspension was also replaced with a conventional coil spring suspension, a commonly performed upgrade that improves the reliability and drivability of these cars. Acquired by the consignor in 2017, this Eldorado Brougham was equipped with a new set of four tires and a new glove box lock cylinder, and it has seen virtually no additional use. It has further benefitted from tuning and cleaning prior to the sale, and it is accompanied by the coveted Eldorado Brougham-specific vanity kit, including a selection of original and reproduction items.

Few cars built in America, or indeed anywhere in the world at the time, were as stylistically audacious or technologically advanced as the 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham. Presented in a rarely seen color combination and offered in highly original condition, this example offers its next owner the opportunity to experience the “Standard of the World” firsthand.