Regarded as one of the best Cadillac models to ever be released to the world, what are some of the lesser known facts linked to the 1953 Eldorado?
As one of the world’s oldest motor vehicle manufacturers, the Cadillac brand roared to life all the way back in 1902 at the turn of the century. Henry Leland was the man behind the brand, and named the company after Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac. In just six short years, Cadillac went on to introduce the concept of interchangeable parts to the automotive industry, and are now considered to be ground-breaking pioneers in terms of laying the groundwork for modern mass production of automobiles.
By the time General Motors purchased the company in 1909, Cadillac had already established itself as one of America’s premier luxury car makers. With celebrity fans ranging from Elvis Presley to Al Capone, owning a Cadillac was all about status, wealth and luxury. For fifty years, Cadillac remained the top selling motor vehicle brand in the United States, and was arguably at its peak during the 1950’s and 1960’s era, with the 1953 Eldorado fast becoming one of the brand’s fan favourites.
Industry Secrets About The 1953 Eldorado
Manufactured between 1953 to 2002, the Eldorado was regarded as the top – or at the very least, close to the top – of the production line when it came to Cadillac’s best in show. Needless to say, if you identify as a classic car enthusiast, there’s a high chance that you already know that, so what are some of the lesser known facts about the first 1953 Eldorado?
Just 532 Were Made – The first generation 1953 Eldorado was a top of the line, limited production specialty convertible. Even though it was the production version of the 1952 Eldorado “Golden Anniversary” concept car, just 532 were ever made, and features quite the range of deluxe accessories for it’s time.
It Didn’t Sell Well – At $7,750, the limited edition 1953 Eldorado was the most expensive Cadillac on the market, at almost twice as much as the regular convertible. Although very much considered to be ‘fancy’ for it’s time, the Eldorado only amounted to just 0.5% of Cadillac’s total annual sales for the year 1953.
The Power Of A Windshield – The 1953 Eldorado had a wraparound windshield, and was in fact the first car ever to do so. This small touch was especially beloved by the Styling Chief at General Motors, and was subsequently copied by many other marques, ultimately influencing automotive models on a global scale even today.
Beloved By A President – The line gained attention when Dwight D. Eisenhower traveled in a 1953 Eldorado to his presidential inaugural ceremonies in Washington DC. The model was formerly owned by Wayne Davis – a Texas collector noted for the first-rate condition and appearance of his car collection – and is believed to still be hidden away somewhere in the USA.
It’s A Worthy Investment – Although a 1953 Eldorado is valued anywhere between $90,000 and $220,000 in today’s classic car market, the highest ever sale recorded was for Eisenhower’s Eldorado, which went to auction for a jaw dropping $440,000 USD in 2008. Needless to say, if you can get your hands on one – look after it.
Even today, the name Cadillac is still synonymous with innovation and style. Over one hundred years later, the brand is still going strong thanks to a company wide vision that refuses to compromise on quality.
How To Get Your Hands On A Classic Car
Meeting a fellow vintage auto enthusiast can feel a bit like finding a needle in a haystack, but rest assured that Classic’s Garage understands the thrill more than most. Having spent forty years collecting anything and everything from matchbox cars to hub caps, he’s successfully followed his passion to source, collect and stock beautiful and low mileage classic automobiles from around the world. With extensive experience in the automotive industry, it was only a matter of time before Wayne expanded on his love of vintage, iconic vehicles to share his knowledge and passion with the public.
Although his passion is for automobiles built before 1978, with a particular love for Buicks, Cadillacs, Lincolns, Oldsmobiles and even Fords, Wayne is just as passionate about the stories of the owners. Just like the cars, he has found that his fellow classic car enthusiasts all have wildly different attractions and logic behind their passion or hobby, and this often translates into how the car is presented. If it’s even remotely different, rare or just plain unusual, Wayne will overcome the relevant logistical and geographical challenges of bringing the cars to his showroom in Australia.
Classic’s Garage is a showroom conveniently located at Seventeen Mile Rocks, that specialises in the restoration and sales of vintage automobiles. In fact, he’s got a medley of fully restored models in stock right now, which can be viewed online via Wayne’s Collection. If you’re on the hunt for Brisbane classic cars – quite simply, Wayne is your man. If you would like to arrange a viewing or inspect any other of our classic vehicles, please get in touch with us today.
