Summary

A modernized first-year Eldorado. Original interior and body features are retained, but many mechanical components have been systematically upgraded with 2020 technology including a new 430hp 6.2-liter V8 LS3 engine and automatic transmission.

Details

1953 was the first year for production of the Cadillac Eldorado model. GM records indicate about 532 Eldorados were built that year. A 1953 Eldorado database identifies 192 survivors. This car was a great candidate for the build performed by Mile High Classics of Denver because it was not a matching-numbers vehicle. The build focused on using 2020 equipment to upgrade many mechanicals while maintaining the original look. This Eldorado's modern mechanical transformation was designed to substantially improve performance, reliability and ease of maintenance. The mechanical upgrade package includes a new 430hp fuel-injected Chevrolet Performance LS3 6.2-liter V8 long-block crate engine, Edelbrock Pro-Flo 4 EFI System with E-Tuner app compatibility (tablet included), Cold Case direct-fit radiator, new 4L60 overdrive automatic transmission with mechanical speedometer output and Compushift GM-style transmission controller, and a new stainless-steel exhaust system with MagnaFlow Performance mufflers. It also included a new gas tank with in-tank PA series fuel pump, Hydroboost brake system powering front and rear Wilwood Dynalite Pro Series disc brakes, new John's Industries 9-inch Ford rear axle, third member, TruTrac differential with 3.73:1 gear ratio and a new driveline system. Additional mechanical upgrades include a new Ididit tilt steering column with column shifter, Lokar digital shift indicator installed inside the original shift indicator viewer, new late-model GM power steering box, electric wiper conversion and a new American Autowire wiring harness. During the build, the new LS3 was crafted to somewhat resemble the original engine. Instead of the typical shroud covered crate engine, the build included painting the engine 1953 Cadillac Blue, installing an LS engine adapter kit enabling original Cadillac valve covers to be installed on the heads over the injectors, and adding an OPG steel 1953 Cadillac reproduction air cleaner and filter bolted onto the Edelbrock EFI throttle body. This made the look of the engine resemble 1953, but the performance is pure 2020.