1957 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible (RHD)

Description

Cadillac's flagship Eldorado was introduced in 1953, with all the glitz and glamour of the Motorama show cars translated from dream car into production reality. Loaded with a long list of special features, the Eldorado was one of the most expensive cars on sale in America and consequently became the most exclusive as well, with only 532 sold in the first year of production. Over the next three seasons Cadillac continued to offer the bespoke Eldorado (as a convertible only until 1956), set apart from lesser models with unique styling touches, equipment and trim levels and more powerful engines. Inspired by the Orleans, Eldorado Brougham and Park Avenue show cars of the 1954-55 Motoramas, the 1957 Cadillac range featured brand new styling, the new X-frame platform allowing GM's designers to adopt a lower, wider look. Sleekest of all was the Eldorado, offered in either Seville hardtop or Biarritz convertible form, with a unique tail treatment highlighted by sculpted fins that grew out of the gently curved tail. The Eldorado was available with the most powerful engine in Cadillac's line-up, using twin four-barrel carburettors bumping horsepower from the usual 300 to 325. The Eldorado was loaded with almost every conceivable luxury feature available to the car buyer in the 1950s, including power windows and electrically adjustable seats, with air conditioning and autronic eye the only convenience options. Both models were priced at an eye watering $7286, putting them well beyond the reach of all but the most well heeled customers and the high price tag ensured the Eldorado remained - aside from the limited edition Brougham - the most exclusive car in GM's extensive catalogue. Of the almost 150,000 Cadillacs made in 1957, just 2100 were Sevilles and 1800 Biarritzs, with survivors proportionally few and far between. No automobile better symbolises the styling excesses of the chrome age than the Cadillacs of the 1950s and for decades, these flamboyant cars have proven hugely popular with collectors.