Eric Minoff
Vice President, Head of Department - US
LOT 112
1956 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible Chassis no. 5662073179
Estimate: US$110,000 - US$130,000
Lot 112
1956 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible
The Audrain Concours Auction|30 September 2022, 16:00 EDT|Newport, Rhode Island, International Tennis Hall of Fame
1956 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible
Chassis no. 5662073179
Chassis no. 5662073179
364ci OHV V8 Engine
Single Carter WCFB 4-Barrel Carburetor
305bhp at 4,600rpm
3-Speed Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission
Independent Coil Spring Front Suspension and Solid Rear Axle
Four-Wheel Power-Assisted Hydraulic Brakes
*One of only 2,150 produced for the model year
*Recent engine rebuild
*Cadillac's top of the line convertible
*Well optioned example documented with a copy of its original build sheet
THE 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.
For 1956, Cadillac models received a new look, even if they weren't actually new models. The facelift involved a revised grille, revised front bumper and repositioned parking lights. Buyers had a choice of the standard satin finish or gold for the grille. Other molding and trim changes were hallmarks of the '56 models. The most significant change for the model year however was Cadillac's V-8 engine being upsized to 365 cubic inches. The Eldorado's horsepower was bumped to 305hp, 20 more than the other models in the range, thanks in part to the twin four-barrel carburetors housed in a unique gold "batwing" air cleaner. The Eldorado became available in both the "Biarritz" convertible and "Seville" two-door hardtop models. With a jaw dropping price tag of $6,556, the Eldorado Biarritz was nearly $2,000 more than the already pricey series 62 Convertible. In total, only 2,150 Eldorado's were produced for the model year
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
This gorgeous Eldorado Biarritz is finished in the elegant livery of cream over a tan leather interior with a tan convertible top. Having been the recipient of a concours level restoration earlier in its life, the car remains in fantastic condition; a real testament to the quality of the work performed and the care that the car has received. The paintwork presents very well as does the interior and tidy engine bay. In addition to the host of standard options, the car is fitted with a signal-seeking AM radio, EZ Eye glass, and Autronic Eye. During the restoration seat belts and a parade boot were added. Over the course of the past year, the Cadillac has received a complete engine rebuild as well.
Accompanying the car are copies of the original build records from GM, and five correct Sabre wheels, fitted with wide whitewall Coker Classic tires. This phenomenal Eldorado Biarritz presents a wonderful opportunity for an enthusiast to acquire a top of the line Caddy that is sure to be a standout on the road or any car gathering.
Single Carter WCFB 4-Barrel Carburetor
305bhp at 4,600rpm
3-Speed Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission
Independent Coil Spring Front Suspension and Solid Rear Axle
Four-Wheel Power-Assisted Hydraulic Brakes
*One of only 2,150 produced for the model year
*Recent engine rebuild
*Cadillac's top of the line convertible
*Well optioned example documented with a copy of its original build sheet
THE 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.
For 1956, Cadillac models received a new look, even if they weren't actually new models. The facelift involved a revised grille, revised front bumper and repositioned parking lights. Buyers had a choice of the standard satin finish or gold for the grille. Other molding and trim changes were hallmarks of the '56 models. The most significant change for the model year however was Cadillac's V-8 engine being upsized to 365 cubic inches. The Eldorado's horsepower was bumped to 305hp, 20 more than the other models in the range, thanks in part to the twin four-barrel carburetors housed in a unique gold "batwing" air cleaner. The Eldorado became available in both the "Biarritz" convertible and "Seville" two-door hardtop models. With a jaw dropping price tag of $6,556, the Eldorado Biarritz was nearly $2,000 more than the already pricey series 62 Convertible. In total, only 2,150 Eldorado's were produced for the model year
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
This gorgeous Eldorado Biarritz is finished in the elegant livery of cream over a tan leather interior with a tan convertible top. Having been the recipient of a concours level restoration earlier in its life, the car remains in fantastic condition; a real testament to the quality of the work performed and the care that the car has received. The paintwork presents very well as does the interior and tidy engine bay. In addition to the host of standard options, the car is fitted with a signal-seeking AM radio, EZ Eye glass, and Autronic Eye. During the restoration seat belts and a parade boot were added. Over the course of the past year, the Cadillac has received a complete engine rebuild as well.
Accompanying the car are copies of the original build records from GM, and five correct Sabre wheels, fitted with wide whitewall Coker Classic tires. This phenomenal Eldorado Biarritz presents a wonderful opportunity for an enthusiast to acquire a top of the line Caddy that is sure to be a standout on the road or any car gathering.
Saleroom notices
Please note that this has a dual-four barrel carburetor set up, which is correct for the model.
Additional information
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