SOLD

1960 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz

Cadillacs produced in the middle of the 20th century reflected America’s space-age fascination and optimism for a future filled with jet-powered air travel and space exploration. This is the backdrop for which this 1960 Cadillac was created in spectacular fashion. 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 the new Cadillacs were not much larger than before, these restyled and low-slung luxury cars looked bigger, and that was all that mattered. Of course, they also featured fashionable tail fins courtesy of General Motors' chief stylist, Harley Earl, who had introduced fins on the 1948 Cadillac lineup. Earl’s dramatic fins reached a peak in 1959 and were given a contemporary streamlined look for 1960, a hint at what the next decade of automotive design had in store.

The impressive list of standard equipment on the Eldorado Biarritz included a powerful 345 horsepower engine, air suspension, special leather interior, remote control trunk release, radio with power antenna and rear speaker, power vent windows, six-way power seat, electric door locks, unique chrome trim, hard convertible boot covers, fog lamps, special finned wheel covers and whitewall tires. Priced at a lofty $7,401, the Eldorado Biarritz Convertible was one of the most expensive cars of its day and sold in commensurately low numbers, with just 1,285 made for the 1960 model year.

This spectacular 1960 Eldorado Biarritz, finished brilliantly in Pompeian Red with matching red leather interior, is simply stunning in appearance. Wearing an older, high-quality restoration that still presents beautifully thanks to its careful use and attention over the years.  The restoration was finished to a high standard, exhibiting beautiful paint, excellent brightwork, and straight, crisp body panels.

The red upholstery is in excellent order, with clean and supple seats that show light wear from use, particularly on the driver’s seat. Original interior appointments include a pushbutton radio, dash mounted Autronic Eye sensor, and an ash tray for every occupant. The pinpoint vinyl top is, of course, power operated and in good order. The Eldorado Biarritz-only fiberglass parade boot is included for a tidy finishing touch. In addition to the full complement of standard power accessories mentioned above, this Cadillac is also equipped with highly desirable factory air conditioning.

The Eldorado showcased Cadillac’s ultimate engine for 1960, the powerful Q-code 390 cubic inch V-8. Topped with three two-barrel Rochester carburetors this engine produces 345 horsepower and is mated to a three-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission as standard equipment. Lifting the enormous hood reveals a highly detailed engine compartment. The massive gold air cleaner covers the factory multiple carburation system, and power steering and brakes are standard fitments. While a complicated and oft-troublesome air suspension was standard on the Biarritz, this example has been converted to a more conventional coil spring setup – a common practice to improve reliability and eliminate headaches for owners, and many were converted early-on.

This is a beautiful example of one of the most desirable and evocative automobiles from America in the middle of the twentieth century. With fabulous styling and 345 horsepower from its triple carbureted powerplant it will hold its head high on the freeway as well as the avenues of Santa Monica, Southampton, Palm Beach or in its namesake Biarritz.

 

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