In the late 50s, General Motors saw a major makeover of all their full-size lines, and the 1958 models were given a facelift from their predecessor’s design. Changes included lots of chrome, quad headlamps, and lower bumper guards in a new, bolder grille full of studs. Best of all: the rear of the 1958 now sported the shark fins borrowed from the Eldorado.
The end result? While only 18,414 cars of this model year and style were produced by Cadillac, the 1958 Coupe De Ville became one of the most popular Cadillacs of its era.
This Turquoise Cadillac was delivered to Lima, Ohio on November 11, 1957 and has been well-maintained since that time, still wearing its original color. Everything on this car is outstanding, including the paint, upholstery and chrome. It starts and runs beautifully – as it should – and nothing needs to be done to get it on the road or in a car show.
A 10-year ongoing restoration began in 2000 by Thomas Brothers of Cleveland, OH with a rebuilt radiator, exhaust system and new carpets. They also reupholstered the seats in gray metallic leather and matching Westminster cloth.
The dash and steering wheel were also restored, and the special-order headliner (unique to the 1958 Biarritz coupe) was installed (take a look in the photo gallery).
In 2003, Done Right Engine & Machine of North Royalton, OH completely rebuilt the matching-numbers engine, including hardened valve seats. Classic Restoration of Grove City, OH completed the bodywork, prep for painting and painting of the entire exterior.
F.E.N. Enterprises of Wappingers Falls, NY completed a comprehensive body-on restoration. All body panels are laser-straight without filler anywhere. No expense has been spared with any vendor, and all detailed build sheets and invoices are with the car.
The power brake booster has been recently rebuilt, and a new complete dual exhaust has been replaced within the last three months. Also included with the car: a complete set of bias ply tires mounted on steel wheels for car shows as well as new Diamondback radials mounted on the car for touring.
The dark gray carpet is stain-free and in excellent condition. All gauges work and are clear.
All standard options are functional and include:
And then there are the add-ons:
In addition to the detailed invoices, an original sales brochure, original shop manual and original Supplement and Specifications Manual are included.
Not surprisingly, this striking classic has won many national and regional awards, including being named a Cadillac LaSalle Club Senior Car and an AACA National Show Winner. It completed a tour to Michigan and was driven to shows in Cherry Hill, NJ and Hershey, PA.
This car glides down the road as it should and will cruise all day at 75 mph as admirers watch those fins go by. The radial tires add to that comfort, allowing no road noise or wander.
While some detractors claim these cars were too big, sported too much metal and chrome and were a bit over the top, most people agree that the 1950s Cadillacs were beauties. As a leader in the luxury car category of its day, the 1958 Cadillac Coupe De Ville is truly one of the great cars of its decade.
