Cadillac

From its 1902 founding, Cadillac built a reputation for precision engineering, becoming the first American car to win the prestigious Dewar Trophy. It pioneered mass production of the V8 engine in 1914 and the electric self-starter, cementing its status as an industry leader. Through the post-war era, design chief Harley Earl defined American automotive style with extravagant chrome and towering tailfins, making Cadillacs the ultimate status symbol.

Collectors are drawn to Cadillacs that represent high points of American optimism and design. The V-16 and V-12 models of the 1930s are coveted for their engineering and bespoke coachwork. The 1959 Eldorado Biarritz convertible is the peak of tailfin excess, while the hand-built 1957-1958 Eldorado Brougham showcased advanced features. More recently, interest has grown for the CTS-V and Blackwing models, which combined traditional luxury with world-class performance.

The Cadillac market is incredibly diverse, with an average sale price around $29,500. At the top, concours-quality V-16s and rare 1950s convertibles can exceed $400,000. The broad middle market includes well-kept Sedans de Ville and Eldorados from the 1960s and 1970s. For enthusiasts on a budget, models from the 1980s and 1990s offer an affordable entry into the brand's history, though condition is key.

Based on 3,473 recent sales, prices range from a few thousand dollars for project cars to over $410,000 for rare pre-war models and pristine 1950s convertibles.