Throughout the early fifties, the Cadillac’s body style virtually stayed unchanged, except for some minor exterior trim and body adjustments. However, the 1955 Cadillac models were overall bigger than ever before. For example, the wheelbase increased approximately 2 inches for all Cadillac models, as well as the traditional 8 vertical louvers of the Cadillac Fleetwood increased now to twelve. The grille was redesigned with wider spaces between the blades, as well as a curved rear window predominately adopted by the Cadillac Sedan models. As well, the horse power for the 1955 Cadillac increased dramatically, the Eldorado boasted 270 bhp courtesy of a new dual four-barrel carburetor. So not only was the 1955 Cadillac larger than life, it was also fast, with a statistical speed of 117 miles per hour.
Other features that the 1955 Cadillac Eldorado entailed were the re-introduction of aerodynamic tailfins from earlier years. Fender skirts were also eliminated on the Eldorado, as well as the enlargement of the wheel cutouts. Another added incentive for the 1955 Cadillac Eldorado owner was the personalized name plate that appeared on the dash. As well, those that purchased the Eldorado Convertible found such standard amenities as customized interior seats, power windows and power seats, as well as power brakes, custom trim and ornamentation to the hilt. Ironically, the only thing this Eldorado was missing was the air conditioning however, it was an option available for approximately $500 more. Fortunately for Cadillac lovers, the Eldorado was priced reasonably in fact, the much faster and larger 1955
Cadillac Eldorado was approximately $100 more than its
1954 counterpart, which was less “showy” and by far less powerful.
Another important event that occurred in 1955 was the introduction of the popular Park Avenue sedan; although making its debut as a show car; the future was bright for this Cadillac; it later became the popular Cadillac Eldorado Brougham.
Overall, the 1955 Cadillac stood out above the rest that year, especially the
new and improved Eldorado. In fact many car enthusiasts view the 1955 Cadillac
Eldorado as a Milestone in the automotive industry.
The 1955 Cadillac models were bigger and better than the previous years, and
for the makers at Cadillac, it did prove to be a rather profitable year, sales
increased dramatically in 1955, in fact breaking past sales and production
records. An astounding 140,000 Cadillac’s were produced in 1955.
Check out some other Cadillacs from the 1950's -
1951 1952 1953
1954
1956 1957
1958 1959
