390ci OHV V-8 Engine
Single 4-Barrel Carburetor
325bhp at 4,800rpm
4-Speed Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission
Independent Front Suspension, Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*An icon of American automotive styling
*Comprehensively restored, invoices for work on file
*Offered from private ownership of 13 years
*One of the most sought-after of post-war Cadillacs

POST-WAR CADILLAC

With their jet fighter styling, glitzy chrome trim, color-matched interiors and jukebox instrumentation, Cadillacs of the late 1950s/early '60s epitomize an era when nothing succeeded like excess. Their over-the-top tail fins remain controversial even today.

By the late 1950s Cadillacs incorporated new X-braced tubular chassis frames that increased structural rigidity while making possible lower body lines without loss of interior space; although hardly any larger than before, these restyled and low-slung Caddies looked bigger, which was all that mattered. They also sported fashionable tail fins. General Motors' chief stylist Harley Earl had introduced fins on the 1948 Cadillacs and the device would reach its zenith in 1959 before fading away.

For 1960 the fins were toned down just a little and the overall look was slightly more restrained. A more extensive cosmetic makeover distinguished the 1961 models, while beneath the skin the troublesome air suspension was replaced with rubberized springs. All models came with a 390ci (6.4-litre) 325bhp V8 engine under the hood. Base-model Series 6200 cars featured power steering, power brakes, and automatic transmission as standard, while the DeVille 6300 Sub-Series offered power windows and seats in addition. Now part of the DeVille range, the Eldorado Biarritz Convertible added power vent windows, whitewall tires, and a remote-control trunk lock to the mix. Priced at $6,477, the Biarritz Convertible was one of the most expensive cars of its day and sold in commensurately low numbers, only 1,450 being made out of a total Cadillac production of 138,379 units in the 1961 model year.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This striking and beautiful Eldorado Biarritz Convertible was acquired by the present owner in 2006 and has been the recipient of an extensive restoration at a cost of more than $150,000, to bring it to the exceptional condition that we see today. This work was carried out by noted experts FEN Restorations who trade now as Cadillac Parts & Restoration, in Poughkeepsie, New York.

Decoding its built plate confirms it to have been built in the second week of February 1961 and further confirms its body style to be the most desirable convertible, the Eldorado Biarritz. As new, it wore Topaz paintwork with copper trim and a black. Additionally, the car featured EZ eye glass and a heater as accessories.

During the restoration its colorway has been matched closely with similar tones to the original, while the top had been replaced in a more colorful and complimentary rose tone. In the current ownership, the car spent some time in New Zealand before returning to its home country in recent times. Since its refurbishment, a mere 1,000 miles have been covered.

Sure to turn heads wherever it goes, this is a great sociable touring classic from the 'Jet Age.'