When Continental introduced the handmade, $10,000 Mark II ultra-luxe coupe for 1956, Cadillac could not just stand idly by. The division worked quickly to counter the Mark II by crafting its own version of what an ultra-luxe car should be—and it started with a letter-writing campaign. Cadillac marketing gathered up the addresses of many of its customers, particularly those known for buying the more expensive and exclusive models, and sent them letters discussing a new, exciting and highly limited Cadillac automobile. According to Cadillac, it would define exclusivity. It would be hand built and feature the latest technological and engineering components, as well as amenities from fine designers. It would feature four doors and a unique brushed stainless-steel pillarless roof. It would be equipped with a self-leveling suspension and two- position memory power seating. It would have an automatic trunk opener, cruise control, an electric antenna, an automatic parking brake release, the Autronic eye headlight dimmer system, air conditioning and a dual heating system, power windows, power locks and more. In the glovebox would be six silver magnetic drink tumblers and an Evans leather trimmed cigarette case and vanity kit complete with a lipstick holder, a powderpuff with powder, comb, beveled mirror, coin holder, gold mechanical pencil, an atomizer filled with Arpege Extrait de Lanvin perfume and more. All of this engineering, technology and luxurious amenities would make it a luxury car leader on all fronts, including design and body construction. First available in March of 1957, the Eldorado Brougham cost a whopping $13,074 new, roughly $128,000 today. At this price, it was considerably more costly than the Continental Mark II or even the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud or Facel-Vega Excellence. Only 400 were made in 1957 with just 304 being sold in 1958. This 1958 Eldorado Brougham received the Best of Show at the 2010 Cadillac and La Salle Club Southern California meet. The 365 CI V-8 engine is fed by three Rochester 2-barrel carburetors and is backed by a 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Finished in black with the brushed stainless-steel top, it rolls on the correct thin whitewall tires with forged polished aluminum wheels, the body suspended by the 4-wheel air suspension system. Complete with the many accessories such as the atomizer, powderpuff, compact, lipstick holder, comb, mirror, six shot glasses, tissue dispenser, memo book and pencil, the gray interior features front and rear fold-down armrests. The seating surfaces are button tufted and upholstered in a fine cloth as the factory would have issued it. Power steering and power four-wheel drum brakes make the large car infinitely easier to maneuver while air conditioning helps maintain a comfortable temperature on the warmest of days.
