A one-of-a-kind Cadillac, once destined for destruction, has sold for $494,500 at auction. The Eldorado Brougham Town Car, known internally as the XP-48, was a “Dream Car” for GM’s 1956 Motorama. Hindsight truly is 20/20, and this story is the perfect example of that. Today, the thought of scrapping a truly unique concept seems ludicrous, but decades ago, it was somewhat normal.
Designed by Robert Cumberford at just 19 years old, with contributions from Herb Cadeau and GM design boss Harley Earl, the car was based on the 1955 Eldorado Brougham Concept. It featured an open chauffeur’s compartment and an enclosed passenger space with a glass partition, black and beige leather upholstery, Wilton wool carpeting, and gold-finished hardware. Additionally, the cabin included air conditioning, an intercom for communication with the driver, a cigar humidor, and drinking glasses, showcasing its luxurious and innovative design.
From Scrapyard to Auction Block
In 1958, GM sent the Town Car to a Michigan junkyard, along with two 1955 LaSalle II concepts and a 1955 Chevrolet Biscayne. The plan was to dismantle and destroy the vehicles. However, junkyard owner Harry Warholak Sr. had other ideas. He partially dismantled the other cars but kept the Cadillac hidden, initially storing it in a trailer. According to his son, Warholak intended to use the car for his daughter’s wedding, though this never happened. This decision preserved a unique piece of automotive history, and now, nearly 70 years later, it just sold for nearly half a million bucks.
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A Labor of Love
The Cadillac changed hands several times over the decades. In the early 1990s, it was acquired by Roy Warshawsky, who began a restoration. The car was later sold to Cadillac enthusiast Dick Baruk in 1996, who completed the work. One significant challenge was that the original concept car lacked a powertrain, functional electrical system, and brakes. Baruk addressed this by installing a period-correct engine and transmission, complete with dual four-barrel carburetors and gold-plated valve covers.
The restored car won Best in Class at the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. Its recent sale at RM Sotheby’s in Hershey, Pennsylvania, highlights its enduring appeal as a special piece of GM’s Motorama era. This sale shows the car’s transformation from a forgotten relic to a celebrated artifact, thanks to the dedication of collectors and restorers.
