Engine No. 536269173

Body No. 287

No mere "special edition," the original Cadillac Eldorado of 1953 was quite literally a dream car for the public. Its styling was virtually a direct copy of the Motorama car of the same name, and each of the 532 examples was hand-built at a special off-campus production facility. Each car had its convertible body lowered an inch and a half on the chassis, for an especially lean, low-slung look. This was the first American production car to have a wrap-around windshield and visored dashboard, and shared its dramatic cut-down doors with another limited-production GM special of this year, the inaugural Buick Skylark. Unique Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels were the perfect finishing touch.

The seats were cut down to suit the redesigned bodywork, and were fitted in an interior with embossed stainless steel door saddle trim, unique sun visors and rear-view mirror, and sliding interior door handles similar to those found on Cadillac's Motorama show cars of the period. A power-operated convertible top disappeared under a "parade boot," which, unlike the later multi-piece removable units, was hinged and integral to the car, with a built-in prop bar. As the boot had to be raised manually, the switch for the convertible top was inside the car on a rear quarter trim panel, so that the owner could open the boot and operate the top without having to get back behind the wheel.

According to a copy of its build sheet, which is included in the history file, this particular Eldorado was built with body number 287; originally Artesian Ochre, the body was refinished by a later owner in another Eldorado-exclusive color, Aztec Red, but retains its correct red and white leather interior, trim code 38. In fact, close examination reveals that the well-preserved car actually retains its original upholstery on the door and rear quarter panels, as well as the dashboard, while the seat upholstery has been replaced but very authentically so, in the original pattern and with correct stitching. All the power goodies that one would expect on an Eldorado are still present, including power steering and brakes, a six-way power seat, a power white pinpoint vinyl top, and AM radio. The trunk was properly restored using the original materials and contains a full-sized matching spare and tire. All original chrome remains, in fine condition, save for only the rear bumper which was refinished many years ago.

Examining the undercarriage shows just how nice a life this particular car has led, unsurprising for an example that was originally delivered in Los Angeles. It remains solid and unaltered, with even the original spiral shock absorbers still mounted. At the time of cataloging the car had recorded 36,449 original miles, an unsurprising reading given the Cadillac's condition.

The 1953 Eldorado is in the first rank of American automobiles of its era, and this must surely be one of the best-presented examples to be found – obviously always a good car, with an outstanding presentation to satisfy even the most sharp-eyed enthusiast who knows quality when they see it.