1956 was the first year for the Cadillac Seville in what would be a long history of luxurious cars. Known for an exceptionally smooth ride, these cars weighed in at over 4,000 pounds. This car can be found here on Hemmings with an asking price of (a negotiable) $8,500. The car resides in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin and is probably ready for some spring cruising.
This car has definitely seen some weather. The interior needs a lot of attention just like the rest of the car. If the new owner plans a full restoration, it will be a very costly and time consuming endeavor. Every part of the car will need to be addressed and the availability for aftermarket support is certainly not as strong as other General Motors cars of the same era. There’s a saying in the classic car world that states, “It’s better to buy one than build one.” That may just be the case with this car.
This photo highlights many of the rust spots on the car. It also appears to have a layer of body filler between the paint and metal. It’s unclear if it was a repair for a previous collision or if it was part of the production process. Either way, this will need to be properly addressed in order to adequately fix the car.
Not sure exactly what part of the car this photo is supposed to be of? Obviously, you can see more of the rust and dampness that plague this car. If a full restoration is planned, the new owner had better be a good metal worker or have deep pockets to pay for the shop hours that this car will require. These are great and iconic cars. It’s a shame to have seen it going this far toward oblivion, but hopefully someone can still save it.
“Better to buy one than build one”- no truer words ever spoken. Find what you want, make sure it was done right and is priced right, and save yourself years of labor and thousands of dollars.
So true.
Doesn’t that go against the battle cry, “someone should save this beautiful piece of automotive history”. It always seems to be a call for someone, other than the person calling for the restoration, to put in the time, effort and money.
Steve R
Partially true.
Depends on what part of the hobby you enjoy. I don’t go to car shows. I like to take things apart and rebuild them. So for me project cars are the way to go. I drive them for a while after they are done and then sell to fund my next project.
I’ll agree that financially it’s often better to buy one done. You have to know what you are looking at or get help from someone with the expertise.
– John
Haven’t we seen this one before ?
Rod & Custom March 1958 custom Cadillac. 5,400 pounds of steel and lead.
Took my drivers test in one way back in 1968.In fact its is what I learned to drive in.
I took it in a ’66 Merc Monterey. Pulled up to the parallel parking poles and had about a foot clearance, he smiled when I looked at him. I pulled in about half way and told the officer I’ll take the hit on proficiency points. Didn’t want to hit the poles. Lol
I remember in the 1980s helping a guy move some parts from one of these. That front bumper was a monster and can you imagine the cost to rechrome it. No thanks
‘Not sure exactly what part of the car this photo is supposed to be of?’ I am with you on those photos Montana. I see some like that on Forums I am involved with. Laugh and think to myself WTH? And those are vehicles I am familiar with. Thanks for letting me rant, Mike.
“seems to be a layer of Bondo between the metal and the paint”…wow now that’s politeness, diplomacy, and truth all in one! Love the styling on these. Hope it goes to someone who appreciate the beauty of this old Caddy!!
Good luck to the new owner!!
56 Was the golden anniversary of Cadillac, and
no model was any nicer than this was.This model is fairly scarce.!
I don’t think this looks too bad,and seems like a great start,if rest of car is
solid/+not too rusty.This was one super beautiful luxury cruiser..,
I would love to see it restored.
Well, it’s interesting, but it’s no 94 Cutlass Ciera Wagon, that’s for sure……
The movie “Gone Girl” comes to mind with this one.