The 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham is a landmark in American automotive history, epitomizing the pinnacle of luxury, innovation, and design during the late 1950s. As Cadillac's flagship model, the Eldorado Brougham showcased advanced features, exquisite craftsmanship, and bold styling that set new standards for the luxury car market. It still stands as a masterpiece of automotive design and engineering, exemplifying the height of luxury, innovation, and its advanced features, exquisite craftsmanship, and distinctive appearance continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, making it one of the most celebrated classic cars in American automotive history.
Overview
- Production Year: 1958
- Manufacturer: Cadillac (Division of General Motors)
- Class: Luxury car
- Body Style: Four-door hardtop sedan
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The Eldorado Brougham was powered by a 365 cubic inch (6.0-liter) V8 engine.
- It produced approximately 335 horsepower and featured three two-barrel carburetors (Tri-Power setup) for enhanced performance.
- Transmission:
- The car came equipped with a 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, known for its smooth and effortless shifting.
- Chassis:
- The chassis was a body-on-frame design, providing the strength and rigidity necessary to support the vehicle's weight and luxurious appointments.
- Suspension:
- The Eldorado Brougham featured an advanced air suspension system, which offered an exceptionally smooth ride and allowed for automatic leveling regardless of load.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Eldorado Brougham could reach a top speed of around 120 mph (193 km/h), impressive for a luxury car of its size and weight.
- Acceleration: It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 10 seconds, a respectable figure for a 1950s luxury sedan.
- Handling: The advanced suspension system and power steering provided a comfortable and composed ride, making it an ideal grand tourer.
Design Features
- Exterior:
- The Eldorado Brougham featured distinctive styling with a low, wide stance, prominent tailfins, and a unique stainless steel roof.
- It had quad headlamps, a massive chrome grille, and numerous other chrome accents that exuded luxury and sophistication.
- Suicide doors (rear-hinged back doors) added to its unique and stylish appearance.
- Interior:
- The interior was meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, including leather, polished stainless steel, and genuine wood trim.
- It featured power-adjustable seats, power windows, and a power-operated trunk lid, exemplifying the height of convenience and luxury.
- Other amenities included a unique perfume dispenser, magnetic drinking cups, and a comprehensive array of instrumentation and controls.
- Technology:
- The Eldorado Brougham was equipped with state-of-the-art technology for its time, including an automatic headlight dimmer, a memory seat function, and air conditioning.
- It also featured an advanced signal-seeking radio and a glovebox-mounted vanity kit.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham represents the zenith of 1950s American luxury car design, embodying the era's fascination with futuristic styling and advanced technology.
- It was a halo model for Cadillac, showcasing the brand's capabilities and setting a benchmark for luxury and innovation in the automotive industry.
- Cultural Impact:
- The Eldorado Brougham was a symbol of status and success, often owned by celebrities, industrialists, and other prominent figures.
- It became an icon of 1950s American culture, reflecting the optimism and extravagance of the post-war era.
You may purchase a print of the 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham in our dElegance 2015 online gallery.
