Cadillac Dream

Front Suspension

We completely rebuilt the front suspension and steering on this 1954 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible. Replacement of kingpins, tie rod ends and the drag link.

It has a 230 bhp, 331 cu. in. overhead-valve V-8 engine, single four-barrel carburettor, four-speed Hydra-Matic transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel power-assisted drum brakes. Wheelbase: 129 in.

One of only 2,150 examples built By the early-1950s, Cadillac had displaced Packard at the summit of the American fine car market, and in late-1953, the Motorama-inspired Eldorado crowned its model range. Fitted with a fashionable wraparound windshield, a luxurious custom interior, and a daring beltline dip, the 1953 Eldorado carried a staggering price of $7,750 when new. Powered by Cadillac’s state-of-the-art 331-cubic inch V-8, it was offered only one way—fully loaded.

However, the extensive hand labour and limited production volumes meant that Cadillac reportedly lost money on every Eldorado produced during 1953. Nonetheless, this “halo car” increased Cadillac’s prestige and attracted valuable publicity. A 1953 Cadillac sales brochure declared the Eldorado as having been “dramatically styled by Fleetwood to capture the heart of all America,” and this was no overstatement.

In fact, the Eldorado proved so popular that it joined the regular Cadillac model line in 1954, priced at $5,738, with 2,150 examples produced. All Eldorados featured a host of standard features, including chrome wire wheels, special ribbed lower rear fender moldings, and gold crests, adding further distinction to this already striking, limited-production automobile.

The Eldorado was well on its way to the reputation it would soon establish, a reputation of being the most prestigious Cadillac, and therefore among the most prestigious American automobiles, that money could buy.

Its appeal was near universal: its heft spoke of fabulous wealth, and its design spoke of high style. It was the ideal car for both a bank president and your local neighbourhood movie star.  

About Us

Cruisin Automotive brings quality products to the Australian market at highly competitive prices.

The business specialises in US parts for American Muscle Cars, Classics, Hot Rods and Custom Cars. Cruisin Automotive also supplies upgrade components for late-model vehicles, including Chevy Silverados, Dodge Rams, and new-model Mustangs and Camaros. The business holds the largest range of stock in Western Australia, spanning steel bodies, chassis, lights, trim, electrical, polished and chromed brightwork, brake systems and fuel injection. 

Cruisin Automotive is fully authorised and accredited, operating under a Government of Western Australia Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety Motor Vehicle Repair Business Licence for a Corporation. Licence No. MRB8085 (includes Certificate of Authorised Premises). 

 

Like this product? Fill out our contact form with your questions or phone (08) 9248 9958 | M: 0417 911 702. Email here. Visit our Showroom at 2/308 Victoria Road in Malaga. We ship Australia wide at competitive rates. License Repairer # MRB88085.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drop in for a quote?

Absolutely. We’re happy to talk cars anytime, but if it’s a complex job, booking a time ensures we can give it proper attention.

It depends on the job. Small mechanical work can usually be booked within a few weeks. Full builds may have a lead time, but we’ll always be upfront.
We do both. We have access to over 55 US brands, and often get better pricing and compatibility. But if you already have parts, we’re happy to inspect and install them if they meet quality standards.
Yes. We’re happy to scale projects to suit. From staged builds to smaller one-off repairs, we’ll help you get the best outcome within your budget.

We offer pre-inspection checks and can work with certifiers and engineers to make sure your vehicle meets the required standards.

That’s fine. We regularly take on in-progress projects and help finish what others couldn’t.

 

Contact Us or Visit Our Showroom

License Repairer #MRB88085