Basic information and history

The 1956 Cadillac Fleetwood 75 represents the brand's long-wheelbase limousine with a body built by Fleetwood. Often ordered for official duties and chauffeured driving, the model is characterized by a center screen, folding auxiliary seats and a focus on comfort in the rear seat. Under the hood sits Cadillac's 365 cubic inch OHV V8 four-stroke engine combined with the Hydra-Matic automatic, a drivetrain known for its silky smoothness and high durability. Contemporary luxury includes power-assisted features and an interior designed for quiet long-distance travel.

This example is a Fleetwood 75 Imperial Sedan, according to the seller the highest placed in the Fleetwood series at the time. The car is imported from the USA and is therefore not sold in Sweden. The current owner bought the car from a private collection that a gentleman had on S. Broadway in Los Angeles. After the purchase, the car was prepared by the current owner and was used to drive some short-term drives, among other things. The odometer reading is stated to be 52,000 kilometers . The seller says that the car was originally used in Hollywood and that the previous owner is stated to be Ruby Jean Dandridge , born Butler, mother of Dorothy Dandridge . Ruby's initials RBD Ruby Butler Dandridge are on the car and the car is said to have been driven in this by the family's chauffeur. This background is not supported by the accompanying documentation but is given as information from the seller.

The documentation that accompanies the car includes some history in the form of a previous American title. The car is being sold on Bidders Highway with no reserve price .

Equipment and options

• Imperial Sedan with center window
• Folding extra seats in the passenger compartment
• Leather-covered driver's seat
• Hydraulic window regulators
• Folding chairs
• Extra heating package
• Electric controls for rear side windows according to contemporary specification
• Original Accessories: Cadillac Saber Wheels

Any changes and improvements

According to the seller, there are traces of repainting on parts of the body. All brakes were renovated in 2022 before inspection. The engine is said to have markings that can be interpreted as an older renovation. The tires were replaced in 2020. Otherwise, the car is considered to be mainly original.

Condition

Body and exterior

The paint is largely original with polishing wear on some surfaces. Traces of older repainting are on the right rear door. Minor parking damage and indentations are found along the sides, most clearly on the right and left rear fenders. The chrome is original and partly worn after many polishes. Some side moldings have minor damage. New side moldings for the rear fenders are included. The glass is generally fine except for the side window by the driver's seat which is cracked.

Interior

The interior is preserved in original condition with age-related traces but overall well-maintained. The headliner is fine without damage. The steering wheel, controls and buttons are described as fine for their age without damage. The driver's seat is leather-covered according to the delivery version for the driver.

Tires and rims

The tires are from 2020 and are said to be without significant wear. The Sabre Wheels are original accessories and have partially worn chrome.

Mechanics and function

The engine starts and runs well according to the seller. Markings on the engine indicate an older renovation, but the mileage since this is unknown. The gearbox and driveline work well. All brakes were renovated in 2022 for inspection.

Service history

2022 : Service with oil change. All brakes renovated before inspection.

2020 : Installation of new tires.

Other history: Documentation included consists of some history, Owners Manual, book Cadillac limousines and previous American title.

Summary

The 1956 Cadillac Fleetwood 75 Imperial Sedan, imported from the USA and reportedly with a Hollywood clutch, is now being offered on Bidders Highway with no reserve price. The example shows great originality with largely original paint, well-preserved interior and contemporary details such as a center screen, folding extra seats and the unusual Sabre Wheels. The mechanics have been overhauled in important respects with refurbished brakes and newer tires, while the bodywork shows age-related wear and minor dents and a cracked side window by the driver's seat.

For those looking for a representative Fleetwood 75 with authentic patina, correct equipment level and interesting story according to the seller, this example offers a solid foundation for preservation and continued management.