LOT 18

1957 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible Chassis no. 5762066646

Sold for US$100,800 inc. premium

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Lot 18

1957 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible

Greenwich Concours d'Elegance Online Auction|25 October 2021, 13:00 EDT|Greenwich, Hagerty Garage + Social

1957 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible
Chassis no. 5762066646

365ci OHV V8 Engine
Twin 4-Barrel Carter Carburetors
325bhp at 4,800rpm
4-Speed Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission
Independent Front Suspension - Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Power-Assisted Drum Brakes

*Gorgeous tuxedo color scheme
*Nicely optioned with many power features
*GM's top-of-the-line convertible for 1957
*Splendid jet-age styling

Previewing in Bedford Hills, New York by appointment. Please contact [email protected] for scheduling.

THE ELDORADO

From their radically curved wraparound windshields to their unusual "X-member" frames, the 1957 Cadillacs were virtually all new. Engineered to maintain Cadillac's "Standard of the World" prominence, the '57s evidenced a fresh and pleasing vigor in their styling. Cadillac customers could choose from two convertible styles: the traditional Series 62 offering or the ultra-prestigious Eldorado Biarritz.

Cadillac had debuted the first Eldorado, a special sports convertible that introduced the wrap-around windshield, in 1953. Priced at an astounding $7,750, the ultra-plush first edition attracted 532 buyers. Sales rose in 1954, as the Eldorado became for that year essentially a specially trimmed Series 62 Convertible. The 1955 Eldorado was more distinctive, with its exclusive sharp-edged fins. In 1956, the Eldorado became available in both the "Biarritz" convertible and "Seville" two-door hardtop models.

Stylists working under the direction of GM design chief Harley Earl made the 1957 Eldorados more special than any preceding editions. The softly rounded rear sections of the Eldorado bodies were obviously inspired by GM Motorama show cars. Blade-like fins jutted forth from the tapering rear deck. A split rear bumper and memorable tail lamp treatment lent further distinction. Special 15-inch chrome-finish Sabre-Spoke wheels were standard on the Eldorados. The Biarritz was supplied with a fiberglass reinforced plastic top boot, finished in the same color as the car body.

Eldorado standard equipment for 1957 included almost every conceivable power-assist and luxury feature available at the time. These included a power six-way front seat, left-hand remote outside mirror, a radio, and power steering, brakes and windows. Air conditioning, E-Z Eye tinted glass and an automatic headlamp dimmer were among the few extra-cost options. The Biarritz convertible listed for $7,286—about $2,000 more than the ticket for a Series 62 convertible.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

The known, modern history of this lavish piece of American steel is somewhat limited at the time of cataloging, but it is known to have been in the collection of Georgia enthusiast Milton Robson prior to the purchase by the current owner in March of 2019. Nicely restored at some point prior to the current ownership, the Caddy retains its original color scheme of Black with a Black and White leather interior and white wall tires—a tuxedo-like look that is among the most popular among Cadillac enthusiasts.

Outfitted with a 'batwing' air cleaner with dual 4-barrel carbs, E-Z Eye glass, and heater, it is a nearly six-decade old luxury car with comfort that rivals – and even exceeds – many modern-day drop tops. Then and now, there are few classier ways to show you've arrived than to appear on the scene in '57 Eldorado Biarritz Convertible.

Additional information

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