Although celebrated in some extent in the previous year of 1952, the true anniversary Cadillac did not make its debut until a year later. The 1953 Cadillac
Series 62 had also a point to prove to the world. The new and improved
Series 62 came along with an additional name that Cadillac lovers may
recognize, the “Eldorado”. Although, later introduced to the world as a long
time model for Cadillac, in all reality, the Eldorado made its debut as a
special edition in 1953. At more than $7,000 each, this limited edition was
far and few in between, with only a total of 532 being produced. However,
this car was priced well above the average vehicle and more than $2000 over
the top of the line previous Cadillac models.
Special features for those lucky and rich enough to afford this show car
included a panoramic wraparound windshield, the first automatic headlight
dimmer, the first signal seeking car radio, chrome wire wheels, custom
leather interior, a notched belt line that encircled the vehicle, as well as
a metal lid instead of the traditional canvas ones that were customary. Not
only did the 1953 special edition open the door for future makes of the
Eldorado, it gave Cadillac customers a look into the future as far as
standard features and car innovations went.
Cadillac also introduced two types of special edition show cars in 1953. First, the Orleans, which featured again the panoramic wraparound windshield, as well as a pillar less hardtop design. As well, the Orleans resembled the 1953
Eldorado Cadillac’s front end with the over exaggerated use of chrome on the grille. Another show car that was introduced in 1953 was the Le Mans, which too was later manufactured as a regular model for Cadillac. The Le Mans show car was a two seat convertible with a fiberglass body. There were well defined tailfins, but yet moderately displayed grilles on these cars, unlike other Cadillac’s of the day that featured bigger grilles. This show car also set very low to the ground, it stood approximately 5 and a half inches lower than other Cadillac convertibles of it’s time.
The 1953 Cadillac show cars and special edition vehicles were popular because of their beauty and mechanical features. Not only did these vehicles prepare the world for what was to come in the automotive future, they also stood out and personified excellence for the Cadillac lover.
UPDATE 5/16/2006 I just found a real beauty a 1953 Cadillac Ghia
concept car that was once owned by Rita Hayworth. This car is at the Imperial
Palace Casino in Las Vegas at the car show. It is a 1 of only 2 built. This car
is jet black with gold trim and gold spoke hubcaps. I am in the process of
making a page and when it is done it can be seen with the rest of the
Cadillac's from the auto show.
Check out some other Cadillacs from the 1950's -
1950
1951 1952 1954
1955 1956
1957 1958
1959
