Cadillac DeVille 1st Gen
The first-generation Cadillac DeVille epitomizes late-50s American luxury with its iconic tailfins and chrome-laden styling. Its market is broad, with examples ranging from accessible projects to six-figure, show-winning restorations.
Cadillac DeVille 1st Gen sold for a median of $32,600 over the last 12 months, based on 13 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $27,500 and $44,000. 52 currently for sale.
Get new Cadillac DeVille 1st Gen listings by email
About 3 a week across 3 sites.
Cadillac DeVille 1st Gen prices by year
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The DeVille name first appeared in 1949 as a top-tier trim for the Series 62 Coupe, but it became a separate series in 1959. Slotting just below the Eldorado, the first-generation DeVille came standard with a 390 cubic inch V8 and a host of power accessories. These 1959-1960 models are famous for their extravagant styling, representing the pinnacle of late-50s automotive design.
Collectors prize the 1959 model for its iconic, record-setting tailfins, the tallest ever fitted to a production car. The variety of available body styles, from 2-door hardtops to pillarless 4-door sedans, also adds to the appeal. More than just a car, the DeVille is a rolling sculpture that captures the optimism and excess of post-war America, making it a highly desirable classic.
The current market for these DeVilles is diverse, with an average transaction price around $37,500. This figure is bookended by project-grade sedans that trade for under $10,000 and pristine 1959 convertibles that can command up to $150,000. Condition, originality, and body style are the primary drivers of value.
Buying Tips
- Inspect for rust thoroughly in the trunk, floors, lower fenders, and around the front and rear glass. Frame integrity is critical, so check it carefully.
- These cars feature acres of chrome and stainless trim. Sourcing missing or damaged pieces is both difficult and expensive, so a complete car is a major plus.
- Test all power accessories, including windows, seats, and the air conditioning system if equipped. The vacuum and electrical systems are complex and can be frustrating to repair.
- The 390 V8 and Hydra-Matic transmission are durable, but parts and rebuilds are costly. Look for evidence of regular maintenance and check for smooth operation.
- Remember that 1959 models, 2-door hardtops, and convertibles carry a significant price premium over 1960 models and 4-door sedans.
Prices for first-generation Cadillac DeVilles range from around $3,000 for projects to $150,000 for concours-quality examples.
372 Cadillac DeVille 1st Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 52 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cadillac DeVille 1st Gen cost?
Over the last 12 months, Cadillac DeVille 1st Gen sold for a median of $32,600 across 13 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $27,500 and $44,000. There are 52 currently for sale.
How many Cadillac DeVille 1st Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 52 Cadillac DeVille 1st Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.