1953 cadillac convertable

[mr41cadillac]

what would be the approximate value of a 53 cadillac convertable ? also did they use 12 volt and is this a good year? thanks john

[Dan LeBlanc]

1953 was the first year of the 12v electrics in Cadillacs. Fairly well built reliable cars.

Pictures of your prospective purchase would help evaluation.

[mr41cadillac]

i havent seen it but 1  picture and it looks pretty bright shiney paint. if its say nice looking and drive decent whats an approximate value. thanks john  or a range of values

[wbdeford]

For values, you can check nadaguides.com and hagerty.com.  I consider those values to be a bit inflated, but they at least give you an idea.

a '53 convertible is going to be expensive, so you will want to find out what is original on it and what isn't.

[Scot Minesinger]

The value of a 1953 Cadillac, or really any older desirable collector car is entirely about originality and condition.  Cosmetics seem to more valued than mechanicals.  Don't buy a car you do not look at, pictures are an unreliable means of evaluating condition.  The mechanicals are fairly simple and so they are reliable and fun to drive.  You can't really go wrong with a 53 Cadillac in good condition.  1953  was the first year of air conditioning (with unit in trunk, closed cars only) and so it had 12 volts.

If you have never purchased a car like this take someone with you that has, they will know the areas of possible latent rust.  I know a club member who purchased a nice looking 1954 Cadillac, and it only cost him 40k to repair all the rust, get it painted and have some of the chrome re-done.  Yes I write "only" as sarcastic, point is he would not have purchased it knowing the work required, but the result is beautiful.

Best of luck!

[Tito Sobrinho]

Check also the transmission. In 1953 with the Hydramatic factory fire, several "53s were sold with the Buick Dynaflow transmission. Just a thought!

[Caddy Wizard]

Pros and Cons:
First year of 12v, but last year of cloth-covered wiring (I think -- I could be misremembering this last point)
Last year of hydraulic windows and seat
Styling similar to 53 Eldo boosts value of 53 ragtops
Good engine
Good transmission (if Hydramatic, many try to avoid the Dynaflow)
4bbl carb still was somewhat problematic (only second year of development)
Last year older dash design (preferred by some due to its more classic appearance)
Extensive chrome and stainless is flashy and expensive to redo

[G Pennington]

Check for rusted floorboards!  The window hydraulic cylinders will leak down when parked for an extended time, causing the windows to partially open, allowing rain in.  I had to replace all my floorboards.  Also check the rear fenders just forward of the wheel- moisture gets trapped inside the fender in this area, and they rust out.