1956 Cadillac Eldorado

Notes

1956 Cadillac Eldorado Seville 2-dr HardtopDesigner: Bill MitchellChassis Number: 5662049420Decoded: 56=1956; 62=Series 62; 049420=SerialEngine: 365 cid OHV V8Dual Carter 4-barrel Carburetors/305 bhp3-Speed Hydramatic Automatic Transmission Power Assisted Four Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes Odometer: 34.100 milesFirst year of the Seville HardtopFactory Air Conditioning RestoredThe Model It was a cold January morning in 1953 when the newly elected President, Dwight Eisenhower, rode down Pennsylvania Avenue, that many Americans caught a glimpse of a brand-new luxury convertible, the Cadillac Eldorado. For the first three years of the Eldorados life, it was not only the highest priced domestic car on the market, it was also available only as a convertible. That changed for 1956 with the introduction of the Seville hardtop. Based on the Coupe de Ville, the Seville had luxury appointments that placed it well ahead of the competition. Priced on a par with the convertible it featured a full array of power amenities such as steering, brakes, windows, seats and even a powered radio antenna. A specially anodized golden grille was available at no extra cost, as were the unique Sabre wheels, available in polished aluminum or in gold tone, either available at no extra cost. About the only accessory one could order was air-conditioning. With a base price of $6,711, the extra $538 for keeping the car cool was less than 10% of the total cost. Interiors were appointed in all leather, however, a fabric inserts were available for the Seville. Best of all was the special Eldorado engine, fitted with dual four-barrel carburetors rated at 305 HP, which was about as powerful as any other American car. Just, 2,150 Sevilles were produced in the models premiere year, and while not a money-maker for the brand, it was an image-maker that was positive in every way. The Car Finished in its original Bahama Blue, accompanied by the gleaming white Vicodee fabric roof, this example of the 1956 Seville is picture perfect. So stunning is this color combination that this selection was used in a number of factory brochures and advertisements for the best that Cadillac had to offer. It is fitted with all the power accessories that were standard, such as power steering and brakes, as well as windows and a six-way power front seat. It is also fitted with the optional air conditioning, which was a must when meeting the social elite. While the original owner opted for the less flamboyant golden grille, they did opt for the gold-tone Sabre wheels which really sets off the visual impact of this fabulous ride. The interior in finished in a two-tone of blue and gray leathers and all of the interior extras appear to be in excellent condition. Showing just under 34,100 miles, which are believed to be from new, this is an outstanding example of Americas leadership in the world of automotive production during the mid-1950s. Eldorados styling in 1956 set it apart from the rest of the Cadillac line with rear end design that was a signal to what was coming in future years. The Eldorado Seville was an instant classic, bringing the most luxurious ride on wheels into hardtop beauty for the very first time, and this example deserves to be in a collection of only the finest quality.