1957 CADILLAC ELDORADO BIARRITZ
Cadillac introduced its range-topping Eldorado in 1953, as part of a special series of limited production models indented to celebrate GM’s design dominance in the market. Along with the Oldsmobile Fiesta and Buick Skylark, the Eldorado combined power, elegance, luxury, and exclusivity in a stunning and understated convertible. Priced at a nose-bleed inducing $7,750, the Eldorado was nearly double the price of the next most expensive Cadillac model, and exclusivity was guaranteed with only 532 Eldorados built for the 1953 model year.
In its second year, Eldorado production was up, and the price was down. And, in 1956 the line was expanded, giving the buyer the choice of the Eldorado Biarritz convertible or the newly introduced Eldorado Seville two-door hardtop.
For 1957, the Series 62 line—of which the Eldorado was part—received a new tubular X frame, and a fresh look, which resulted in lower and longer-looking cars, with more defined fins sprouting from the rear quarter panels. Although the Series 62 Eldorado special was offered as both the convertible Biarritz and the two-door Seville coupe for a base price of $7,286, the Eldorado Brougham four-door, pillarless hardtop was added to the lineup as a special order model. The price tag of $13,074 meant that it eclipsed the Continental Mk II as the most expensive American car offered at the time.
Built on a 129.5 inch wheelbase, the Biarritz and the Seville came standard with a four-link rear suspension, and a 365cid, 300hp overhead valve V-8. The Eldorado Bougham’s 325 horsepower version of the V8 was optional in the Biarritz and Seville models. All three models were equipped with dual four-barrel carburetors and a column shift four-speed automatic transmission. Lauded in their day as the finest in American “personal luxury” the Eldorado remains a coveted collector’s piece, and an icon of glamorous mid-century design.
This attractive and appealing Eldorado Barritz was nicely restored some years ago, and has been very well maintained in excellent condition. It is finished in its original livery of black exterior with an excellent black and white leather interior, capped by a correct black convertible top, all of which is documented by its Cadillac build record. Fabulous details abound, from the elaborate gold anodized grille and “Dagmar” front bumpers, to the rounded tail with pronounced fins. The subject of a high-quality restoration, it has aged gracefully, and presents extremely well for touring or casual show. Other equipment includes power windows, power steering, power assisted brakes, air conditioning, Autronic Eye, EZ-Eye tinted glass, and gold anodized wheels. A welcome surprise is the modern Jensen stereo with USB charger and Bluetooth which has been discretely hidden behind the large original ash tray, while the speakers are equally well hidden, ensuring the purity of the original cabin is not spoiled. It also features a “parade boot” for the convertible top, so your passengers can perch up top and wave to admirers.
Retaining its numbers matching engine and correct dual quad carburetors, the engine bay is highly detailed with authentic labels and decals, and the gold-finished bat-wing air cleaner assembly. It shows some signs of light use, while remaining clean and tidy. An electric auxiliary cooling fan ensures it remains at optimal temp regardless of conditions.
With ample power and plenty of luxurious amenities, this big, beautiful, and very straight black Eldorado Biarritz is ready to be driven and enjoyed in a variety of ways, from organized rallies, to casual tours, concours events, or simply to cruise to your local Cars & Coffee.
Offers welcome and trades considered
$189,500
STOCK NUMBER 7537
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