This ’55 Fleetwood is in beautiful original condition with some restoration complete to original specifications. Matching-numbers original engine with complete factory A/C system and no rust anywhere to be found. Runs and drives great. Whether you prefer to enjoy it as-is, complete an all-original restoration, or start your “resto-mod” project, this one is a great starting point. Mileage is unknown (shows 47k), but the car presents itself as well cared for and not “messed with” over the years. Pictures tell the story.
Mechanical
When I purchased the car, I was told the engine was rebuilt within the past few years. I believe this to be true, but the seller could provide no documentation. The engine runs beautifully and had obviously been out for fresh paint recently.
All original under hood components are present and function including original quadra-jet carb and oil-bath air cleaner
Original transmission and torque converter rebuilt June ‘16 with 24-month warranty.
Recent exhaust system. Has a wonderful mellow rumble and exits properly through the bumper.
No known issues with steering, brakes, suspension. Steering is tight and brakes are strong. This is not a sloppy lane-wanderer. Will cruise comfortably at 80mph.
Tires are Coker radials with deep tread
A/C system is complete and vacuum-tests tight. Blower motors work and compressor clutch engages when system is turned on. I have never tried to charge it, but believe it can be made to work.
Interior
Seats recovered in factory-style material in original colors.
Dashboard fully restored. Very good steering wheel. Beautiful gauges and brightwork.
Front door panels restored. Rear door panels original and very good
Headliner original and good
All painted metal interior surfaces repainted
Carpet is original and marginal
All exterior lights, all gauges/idiot lights, odometers, horn, all power windows, power seat, dome and map lights…all work. Original radio works but will not stop “seeking”, you can hear the stations pick up as the dial passes by. Vacuum power antenna does not work. Dash clock works erratically but keeps good time when it decides to run.
Heaters/defrosters work (well!)
Windshield wipers are now electric replacing the often-irritating vacuum system
Exterior
Paint (original color) appears to be mostly original, or at least very old. There is plenty of “patina” with nicks, scratches, and a few thin spots where primer shows through, but as you see in the pics it shines up to look great as a “10-footer”.
There are some light dents/creases along the bottom of the passenger side (see pics).
All trim & emblems are present, nothing missing, and would be considered “driver condition”. Presents very well. No rust in bumper pans. The vertical chrome Fleetwood fins on the rear fenders (hard to find) are nearly perfect.
All glass is clear with no cracks. All windows except the rear have the original date codes.
All doors close solidly. Door locks work but will not unlock with key.
The left rear fender and left rear door were painted at some point. I assume there was a fender bender. I have found no evidence of frame repair. The color is slightly off in the right lighting.
All four hubcaps very good all with original center emblems.
This is a great car for a Cadillac lover. I intended to complete the full restoration and make this an “evening car”, but I’ve fallen in to the “too many projects” trap and need to make some space. I enjoy the car immensely. PLEASE look at the pics closely and ASK QUESTIONS! I am not a dealer or a “professional”, just a guy that loves the old car hobby (especially Caddys). I DON’T NEED HELP SELLING MY CAR!!! My name is Scott and you can reach me at (901) 230-4707. Car is located in Memphis, TN and is under a clear TN title in my name. Make me an offer! I have described the car accurately to the best of my knowledge through words and pictures, but this is a 61-year-old car, and it is sold as-is, where-is with no warranties implied. Shipping is the buyer’s responsibility, but I will do what I can to help it get picked up and don’t mind storing it for a reasonable time. Thanks for looking