Cadillac Series 70 classic cars for sale

History of the Cadillac Series 70

First introduced in 1936 to succeed the 355E, the Cadillac Series 70 emerged at a time when the US market demanded grandeur without compromise. The car was presented with a 5.7-litre Monobloc V8, producing 135 hp, a bold move making the Series 70 a serious contender in the full-size luxury segment. The hand-finished convex Vee grille and V-shaped windshields defined its early design, while successive model years refined features like bumpers, fenders and headlights.

Production was marked by constant innovation: after a short production pause at the end of the 1930s, Cadillac revived the Series 70 for 1957 and 1958, introducing the highly exclusive Eldorado Brougham. Throughout its history, the Series 70 existed alongside both shorter (Series 60, 67) and longer wheelbase variants (Series 75), and reflected Cadillac’s top-of-the-range limousine philosophy for decades. The platform adapted postwar design cues and always aimed to lead technologically — for example, using features like chrome accents, gold castings for anniversary models, and advanced trim options. In the later 1970s, downsizing and the move to more modern technology kept the model in step with contemporary expectations, most notably as the Fleetwood Limousine, which maintained V8 grandeur on a shorter wheelbase.

Model History and Evolution

The Series 70 began in 1936 as a premium four-door saloon, cabriolet, coupé and limousine platform, and kept evolving its engine, platform, and interior technology. Early production ran until 1938, but Cadillac brought it back in 1957 with the ultra-luxurious, hand-built Eldorado Brougham. Subsequent generations focused on luxury and technological improvements, including the adoption of air conditioning, advanced heating, and electric window lifts as standard in later years. The Series 70’s closest relatives were the Series 60, 67, 72 (produced only in single or limited production years) and the flagship Series 75. Cadillac discontinued the Series 70 in the 1980s, having redefined expectations for full-size American limousines across multiple decades.

Highlights and Unique Features of the Series 70

Buyers of the Series 70 enjoyed the highest spec level available from Cadillac for its time. Notable features include all-electric window controls, factory-standard air conditioning (a luxury in the 1950s), advanced interior fabrics such as Parisienne cloth with white leather trim, chrome-rich trim work, and stainless steel roof panels — as seen on the exclusive Eldorado Brougham. In 1957, only 400 units of this variant were produced, underlining its exclusivity.

The model also featured innovative safety and comfort options that were not widely available elsewhere in the period, with chassis refinements and engine power evolving from an initial 135 hp V8 up to a powerful 325 hp in later years. Exterior highlights included rare factory colours such as Ebony Black (colour code 110).

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The 1957–58 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham stands as the most notable special edition within the Series 70 range. Only 400 units were built in 1957, making it one of the rarest factory Cadillacs. This hand-built, four-door hardtop was the most expensive production car of its time at 13,740 USD and was delivered with an array of standard luxury items — air conditioning, full electric controls, and exclusive interior materials. With its stainless steel roof, it was technologically ahead of its competitors and remains a highlight amongst Cadillac collectors.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific weak spots or habitual technical issues have been noted in the available documentation. However, as with any vehicle of this age and complexity, prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the condition of original electrical systems, bodywork and interior trim, as restoration costs for rare parts and unique materials can be significant. The advanced features of models such as the Eldorado Brougham require careful maintenance to preserve functionality and value.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The initial Series 70 models in the 1930s already featured ample power for their class, with 135 hp from a 5.7-litre V8. By the end of the model series, output had reached 325 hp with a 7.0-litre engine in the Fleetwood Limousine, combining significant acceleration with refined cruising. Modernisation through the decades brought automatic transmissions, improved suspension layouts, and more precise handling.

Particularly noteworthy is the performance jump in mid-century models: the Eldorado Brougham combined high output with advanced road manners and an exceptionally luxurious ride, setting benchmarks for the period both in ride quality and engineering sophistication. The 1957–58 Eldorado Brougham is especially sought after for its 325 hp V8 and state-of-the-art features including air suspension and electric accessories. The late-1970s Fleetwood Limousine is also valued for its 7.0-litre V8 and updated chassis.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Every Series 70 was built around Cadillac’s philosophy of offering aesthetic innovation and craftsmanship. The earliest models are marked by V-shaped windshields and convex grille design, with interior options including Code 128 Parisienne grey fabric and white leather combinations. Exclusive exterior colours, such as Ebony Black (colour code 110), paired with stainless steel roof elements on the Brougham, distinguished these models visually. Across generations, interior features included comprehensive chrome detailing, woodgrain dash inserts, and advanced seat arrangements for comfort.

Special equipment was a hallmark — air conditioning, electric window lifts, memory seats, and sophisticated heating systems became standard far ahead of many competitors. Accessories for the Eldorado Brougham included actual crystal tumblers and a perfumed atomiser, underlining its position as Cadillac’s ultimate luxury statement.

Other Features

Over decades of production, the Series 70 adapted with its era: from classic tail fins and gold-cast anniversary trim of the 1950s, to the electronic dashboards and lighter construction seen in the final years. Models adapted to changing US regulations, with ever-increasing driver and passenger comfort as a key focus. Details such as electric trunk openers and the use of expensive imported fabrics and stainless steel add to the historical significance of the Series 70.

Summary

The Cadillac Series 70 is the touchstone of classic full-size American luxury cars — from imposing prewar saloons to hand-built limousine masterpieces like the Eldorado Brougham. With exclusive features, rare special editions, high-output V8s, and continuous technological innovation, it holds a decisive position for collectors and enthusiasts after genuine American luxury motoring from the golden age of Cadillac.