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Wedgewood Green Light and Mist Green might not normally be associated in partnership on the same car but Cadillac decided to use them when pastels and spring colors were all the fashion in the mid-fifties. This may be yet one more color duo to either love or hate. Cadillac also had a Wedgewood Green Dark Poly in the paint stable that could have been pressed into service as another ‘upper’ body color in tandem with the ‘lower’ Mist Green. Period-correct, it still definitely evokes sparse middle-of-the-road opinions.
This is the third iteration of FM’s ’55 Caddy. Issued originally five years ago in 2001, it was hailed as the Elvis depiction; the star’s legendary pink Cadillac. Two years later, in 2003, it received a new coat of black attire and a tan interior and released as a limited edition of 3000 pieces. At 2500 units, this iteration is slightly more limited but much more colorful.
As a four-door vehicle, we have few such offerings considering the plethora of available two door sedans, coupes, convertibles and wagons. Expect the same nice detailing as the previous two models. There’s functioning suspension componentry, including working shocks, front cradle suspension that moves in tandem with the wheel, not just the wheel itself and the driveshaft turns with the rotation of the drive wheels. The trunk is laid out well with tire iron and jack visible behind the stationary spare. The doors open on dog-leg front and internal rear hinges to afford a great view of a nicely appointed interior. The seats are done in Wedgewood and white with matching dash, steering wheel, head liner and door panels. There is a slight, ‘oops’ in that the spotlight handles are still aboard even though they were removed for the black issue and this one as well. To be correct, if you so choose, it is a mere matter of popping them off. The engine bay remains a pleasant nicety. Proper instructional printing, wiring and plumbing are in place. A nice photo-etch metal grill proceeds the cavernous expanse under the hood. Unlike the photo we initially saw of the prototype, the production model has the proper badging and hood emblem. The Cadillac crest appears above the gold “V” with “Cadillac” and “Fleetwood” scripts in tampo-print on the sides, rear deck and wheel covers of the vehicle.
FM’s latest treatment of the big four-door Caddy is bright and cheery. Issue price for the limited edition is $135.
(09/10/2006)
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