1960 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible

General Motors introduced the new, top-of-the-line convertible to its Series 62 of luxury cars in 1953. It was called the Eldorado after the mythical South American 'Lost City of Gold.' It was joined by the Oldsmobile 98 Fiesta, the Chevrolet Corvette, and the Buick Roadmaster Skylark as limited-production convertibles that served as halo cars for General Motors Motorama display for the 1953 model year. Styling of the new Eldorado was based off the 1952 El Dorado Golden Anniversary concept car, and 532 examples were produced in its inaugural year. During its production lifespan, from 1953 until 2002, the Cadillac Eldorado would evolve through 10 distinct generations of design. The third generation of the Eldorado was built in 1959 and 1960, and was based on GM's 130-inch wheelbase, C-body platform, and came in two-door convertible and hardtop body styles, along with a four-door hardtop.

This 1960 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible was offered for sale at the 2007 RM Auctions held in Meadow Brook. The car has spent most of its life in California and was treated to a complete frame-up restoration in 2000. The exterior is finished in champagne color with a matching interior and beige top. It has won numerous trophies and Best in Class or Best in Show awards at a variety of events. It was the Eyes on Design Concours Best of Show Winner for Cadillac/LaSalle. It was Best of Show and Best of Interior at the 2005 Concours at Ault Park. It was awarded a First in Class at Meadow Brook in 2001.

This vehicle is powered by an eight-cylinder engine with a tri-carburetor setup and column shift Hydramatic automatic gearbox. The engine displaces 390 cubic inches and is capable of producing 345 horsepower. There are four-wheel power-assisted drum brakes and a wheelbase that measures 129.5 inches.

This car was estimated to sell for $125,000 - $150,000 at auction. Its quality restoration and proven reputation as an award winner helped attract a new owner and one who was willing to spend $110,000, after the buyer's premium, for this vehicle.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2020