It’s hard to get quality without spending a fortune in today’s world. Back in the day, it seems things were a bit different. Cadillac reportedly lost $10,000 for every 1957 Eldorado Brougham that was built, and at the time they were the most expensive production cars you could find. Because of this, production only lasted for 2 years, with 704 ever built. The Cadillac photoed above is the 16th Brougham to be made.
The original price was $13,974, and to say the value has risen is a gross understatement, as the car is now worth somewhere between $125,000 and $175,000. We’ll find out for sure on July 25th, when the Cadillac will make its way across the block at the upcoming RM-Sotheby’s auction in Detroit.
This Cadillac has been well taken care of, with all electrical features working properly, save the electric seat switches in the door panel. However, a new switch has been installed to move the seat up and back. Other small details have been addressed as well, and recent servicing includes new wheel cylinders, brake shoes, master cylinder, and the chrome was re-plated “as necessary.” This allowed the previous owner to enjoy cruises that were over a 100 miles long. Not bad for a 58-year-old car.
We have no doubt that this car will get a lot of attention, as the pre-war “halo model” for GM reminds us of a time when cost and profit wasn’t the main concern, and building a car that went beyond expectations was the main goal.
Comments
This model represents for me the pinnacle of the brand, the pure essence that Cadiilac never should lose.
To me it was about the end of the real Cadillac Standard.
The Custom Body cars and the V12 and V16 cars to me were the pinnacle.
The mid 50’s were the time where they went more mass production and because a car for the masses not the chosen few. you get into the 60’s and the decline is evident.
To be fair it was not just Cadillac others like Lincoln and Chrysler followed the same path.
On a side note I found one of these cars in a Junk yard about 25 years ago. It was sad as the only thing with no rust was the stainless top. There was little to save other than the trim.
Agree hiperv6
Kill the brand’s prestige an their image for a voluminous sales volume?
The time says that gm do was very very wrong, like the other companies Chrysler/Ford.
Am i seeing this right , it also had suicide doors ? I think the last sentence in the article says it all , ” building a car that went beyond expectations was the main goal ” . Nuff said !!
I’m looking forward to Caddy to bring that body style back….I hope the CT8 gets that style….instead of the smaller wedged shaped body todays Caddys have.