Make: | Cadillac |
Model: | Eldorado |
SubModel: | Biarritz Convertible |
Type: | Convertible |
Trim: | Biarritz Convertible |
Doors: | 2 |
Year: | 1957 |
Mileage: | 5,949 |
VIN: | 5762070697 |
Color: | Black |
Engine: | 365 V8 |
Transmission: | Automatic |
Interior color: | Black |
Vehicle Title: | Clear |
Item location: | Local pick-up only |
Rare, powerful, and elegant this 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible is opulence on wheels. So when you can find an example that has been meticulously restored and preserved with all the right pieces right down to the dual four-barrel carbs on the big V8 then you know this is the perfect classic reserved for the select few who understand why Cadillac was the Standard of the World.
Like Humphrey Bogart in a tuxedo, the formal black paint is ideal for a showboat like this droptop. The factory-correct glossy appearance highlights the shape and the details from an era when designers were in charge at the car companies. Bodywork is excellent, which the product of a four-year restoration. And it's easy to understand why there was so much time and money invested in this convertible. The Eldorado Biarritz took the Series 62 styling to a new level with a unique rear end that was arguably sleeker and more artful than any other car of its era. They were also expensive, which led to only 1,800 built in '57. So, it was hard to find a pricier and rare Cadillac without being named Eisenhower. We know you are looking at all the detail pictures to make sure all that intricate chrome trim is in place. And we're happy to tell you this car is complete and mirror-like from the Dagmar caps all the way down to the trim in the unique tailfins. And speaking of the rear section, no one did it better than Cadillac in the '50s. With the split bumper and integrated exhaust, this is pure sculpture on wheels.
Inside, the appeal of the sofa-like seats is black and white, literally. The leather seating with Cadillac crest brightwork is factory-correct, and reminds us all that true class has a timeless elegance. The rest of the interior is nothing but a great coordinating festival of black, white, and chrome. You see this on everything from the door panels, to the carpeting, to the steering wheel, to the fiberglass boot cover for the convertible top. The dash is original equipment, and the dazzling chrome instrument panel will most definitely remind you of a Wurlitzer jukebox. The whole shining package is complete and authentic, which gives you the kind of vehicle that gets invited to concours events. And more than just elegant, this has rare options for its time like power seats and the Autronic Eye that automatically dims the headlights. Best of all, this convertible comes with a factory power top and power windows. So it only takes the touch of a few switches to go from enclosed luxury to a wind-in-your-hair experience you don't even have to leave the driver's seat!
Cadillac's 365 cubic-inch motor fills this engine bay properly with big V8 power. This period-correct unit looks fantastically well presented with the blue block and valve covers hiding under the golden triangle air topper. And those who know the Biarritz get excited about this feature. Because beneath it is a dual set of Rochester four-barrel carburetors. This extra kick of horsepower completed a package that delivered a sleeker, more opulent, more powerful car for true distinction exactly why the Biarritz is seen as the most collectable Caddy of the era. And while this one had muscle-car level figures, it's delivery was far more civilized. It could cruise the boulevards with confidence, and the dual exhaust has a nice rumble that reminds you of a classic American V8 without jeopardizing the Cadillac's luxury atmosphere. Cadillac pioneered automatic transmissions in 1941, and the unit living behind the V8 shifts crisply and has that unique Hydramatic feel to it that suggest precision machinery at work. Add in power steering and power brakes, and this makes for an effortless vintage cruiser. The final touch are the whitewall tires on the bright factory turbine-style wheels that complete the black, white, and chrome uniform feeling throughout this impressive classic.
Take some time to look over every inch, including the undercarriage photos. And don't forget to check out the paperwork such as the owner's manual, power top manual, and all the right factory tags. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at a true thoroughbred, because cars like this are rarely up for public sale. So if you're a true connoisseur, don't miss this one.