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176 of 127 lots
Lot 176
1955 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible
Estimate:
$125,000 - $175,000
Starting bid:
$25
Sold for
$95,200
Live Auction
Amelia Island Auctions 2024
Description
Without Reserve

Chassis: 556243697<

Top-of-the-Line Convertible Offering from Cadillac
Multiyear, Frame-Off Restoration in Original Colors with Tasteful Upgrades
Exhibited at the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®
One of Just 36 Surviving Examples Known to the Cadillac & LaSalle Club
Prime Example of Open, Mid-Century, Luxury Motoring

331 CID OHV V-8 Engine
Twin Rochester 4-Barrel Carburetors
270 BHP at 4,800 RPM
3-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Front Independent Suspension with Coil Springs
Rear Live Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs

The Eldorado Convertible was Cadillac’s top-of-the-line offering for 1955, a unique blend of styling, performance, and comfort that had no peer in the luxury car market. Priced at $6,286, the Eldorado styling predicted future design trends, including sharp-edged tail fins, full rear-wheel cutouts, and distinctive Sabre-spoke wheels. This Eldorado Convertible was treated to an exhaustive, frame-off restoration conducted by Ed’s Rod Shop of Hanna City, Illinois, from 2017 to 2020. It is finished in Alpine White paintwork complemented by a black Orlon power-convertible top that lies flush with the rear deck when lowered, and is concealed by a fiberglass parade tonneau cover. The interior features two-tone red and white leather upholstery with the red tone repeated on the dashboard and sun visors. During restoration, driving enhancements were incorporated, including a modern three-speed automatic transmission and an upgraded brake system. The Cadillac features period, dealer-installed air-conditioning with a modern compressor and air outlets positioned below the dashboard, ensuring comfortable airflow throughout its spacious interior. Its impressive condition was recognized at the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®, where it made a striking presentation both on the show field and during the Tour d’Elegance®. Original production was limited to 3,950 units and a mere 36 are known to the Cadillac & LaSalle Club today, making it a rare example of open, mid-century American luxury. “Unmatched by any other motor car, anywhere” was Cadillac’s description of the Eldorado when new. Benefiting from a concours-level restoration and pedigree to match, that marketing jargon perfectly describes the car offered here.