1957 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible

365ci OHV V8 Engine
2 Four-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

*Nicely restored inside and out
*Fully-loaded example with a host of power amenities
*Documented by a copy of its original build sheet.
*GM's top-of-the-line Convertible for 1957 with splendid Jet-age styling

THE CADILLAC 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.

Cadillac produced a total of 1,800 Eldorado Biarritz Model 6267SX convertibles for 1957. (The 'S' in the model code indicated special styling, while the 'X' was GM code for a body style equipped with power windows.)

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This top-of-the-line Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible has been restored in its original colors of Black over a Kiowa Red leather interior with a Black top. According to a copy of the factory build sheet on record, this February '57 built Eldo was delivered new to the New York area and loaded with power features including a power top and windows, E-Z Eye glass, Autronic eye, and air conditioning. The 1957 Eldorados are among the prettiest with the sweptback tailfins, bold front Dagmars, and simple, elegant design. Chrome turbine-style hub caps are fitted, surrounded by period appropriate white wall tires.

The history of this example is not documented, but it was nicely restored prior to the seller's acquisition in 2015. Outfitted with a 'Batwing' air cleaner with dual 4-barrel carburetors lurking underneath, heater, and a host of power amenities, it is a more than six decade-old luxury car with comfort that rivals - and even exceeds - many modern-day Convertibles. During the present ownership, the car has largely been on static display and, as such, mechanical service is recommended before cruising down the boulevard. Then and now, there are few classier ways to show you've arrived than to appear on the scene in '57 Eldorado Biarritz Convertible.