1954 Convertible Used Automatic

Description

When GM wanted to make a big splash at the 1953 Motorama, they introduced three limited-edition convertibles: the Oldsmobile Fiesta, Buick Skylark, and Cadillac Eldorado. In 1954, the Eldorado became a permanent part of the Cadillac lineup and represents what many collectors think of as the ultimate '50s heavy cruiser. Code 18 Alpine White was the same color as the Motorama Eldorado, so obviously it was the most popular with customers. It's a soft, creamy white, not a hard refrigerator white, and it looks absolutely spectacular on the sleek Eldorado. It was restored quite correctly and all the unique original Eldorado pieces are still in place, including the signature anodized trim on the lower quarters. These cars are insanely expensive to restore and you certainly couldn't put a basket case into this condition for the asking price, making this Eldo somewhat of a bargain. The doors fit well, the paint shines like it would have in 1954, and it's obvious that a lot of money was invested to get it here. Many of the parts are unique to the Eldorado, which means this has always been a complete car and from the pointed front bumpers to the P51-inspried tailfins out back, this car defines Cadillac style. The red interior provides the ideal contrast to the Arctic White bodywork and includes just about every comfort and convenience item Cadillac could install in 1954. The upholstery is in excellent condition and there's plenty of chrome to offset the details on the exterior. The two-tone steering wheel is pure style and frames a nicely detailed instrument panel that includes a massive speedometer and more shiny chrome trim. That pod on the top of the dash is the Autronic Eye, a primitive high-beam dimmer system, and this car also includes features like power windows (the rear windows need new motors, although they do go up and down). You'll note the radio is missing, but you could either upgrade it to something more modern for cruising or pick up an original Cadillac AM unit. Overhead there's a black power convertible top that's in fantastic condition and it stows under a color-matched white fiberglass parade boot for a very clean look. And as a Cadillac, you know there's a giant trunk, with this one carrying a full-sized spare and a reproduction mat. Cadillac's 331 cubic inch V8 was the most powerful V8 you could buy in 1954 and it moves the massive ragtop without a lot of effort. The engine runs great and was detailed a number of years ago, so it looks right with no modifications. A 4-barrel carburetor offers good throttle response and both power steering and power brakes were standard equipment (probably mandatory on something this big). Cadillac Blue paint on the block, a familiar dual-inlet air cleaner, and an original generator making the electricity. It starts easily and has a muscular but muted note from the exhaust pipes, just about right for a top-of-the-line Cadillac. The Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission shifts properly and this car will cruise all day at modern highway speeds. The chassis shows well enough, but obviously this Eldorado was made to be driven, so you don't have to fret about road rash or rain, which is always a relief. Just about the only external modification are those 235/75/15 whitewall radials, but just think of how spectacular this car would look on a set of wide whites! Ready to enjoy now and with a few finishing touches and upgrades, this could be a vastly more valuable car. It isn't often that we find a car where there's financial upside, but this Eldorado offers the smart collector a great opportunity at a great price. Call today!