Interesting to see the list prices for the '55 Caddy and to realize that for an additional $3500 or so you could have bought a '55 Mercedes-Benz Gullwing coupe. Both cars have appreciated in the years since.

The intake scoops on either side of the trunk tells me that it has air conditioning (the unit with the evaporator and its *two* blowers is mounted in the trunk, below the parcel shelf). And it also has Autronic Eye (the sensor is on the dash on the driver's side).

In 1955 the Eldorado only came as a convertible (Cadillac called it a Sport Convertible Coupe), and there were just two options: a power seat for $54 and air conditioning for $620. The list price was $6,286 and 3,950 were built. The engine was rated at 270 horsepower.

In 1956 the Eldorado came as both a two door hardtop (Seville) and a convertible (Biarritz). There were no options available on either model other than an upgraded engine - 305 horsepower instead of 285. List price was $6,501 for either model. There were 3,900 coupes and 2,150 convertibles built.

Although very similar, even from the back differences can be seen: different bumpers, the shape of the exhaust pipe exits, the nameplate and trim above the trunk lock, and trim on the lower trunk disappearing.

[Air-conditioning was not available for convertibles in the 1955 Cadillac line, including the Eldorado; the only options listed for the "Eldorado Special Convertible" are tinted glass, Autronic Eye headlight dimmer and spotlight. A four-way power seat was standard. Eldorado Seville and Biarritz extra-cost options listed in the 1956 dealer literature include air conditioning, remote trunk lid release, tinted glass and Autronic Eye. The 305-hp engine was standard. Optional at no additional cost were a gold-anodized grille and wheels. - Dave]

Now, that's a Car!

I always liked the copper color with the accent interior.

I remember a "Boys' Life" magazine issue from the 1950's where a close up picture of the these tail lights and the bumper exhaust port won a photo contest with the caption: "Take Me to Your Leader". The 1950's were great years for auto fin and tail light madness. Hollywood also started looking to space for its movie monsters.

Dave, Could you tell us the "color" of the Car before all the excitement begins?

[8-bit grayscale. - Dave]

I.want.that.car!!! That would be great to tool around in.

Does this mean we get to see the rest of the series? I can't wait!

[Set your dials for EXCITEMENT! -Dave]

At around the same time, the 9-year-old me, also enamored of the rear end of the Eldorado, was talking my brother into taking this shot of a 1955 model. Much later, it became one of my earliest Shorpy submissions.