Estimate: $125,000-$150,000 US

AUCTION RESULTS: Lot was Sold at a price of $110,000

Specifications:
345bhp, 390 cu. in. V8 engine with tri-carburetor setup, column shift Hydramatic automatic transmission, shocks and coil spring independent suspension via pneumatic airbags and four-wheel power assisted drum brakes. Wheelbase: 129.5"

By the late fifties, Cadillac would reign supreme over the full-sized luxury car market in North America. Although the extravagant 1959 model caused a sensation when introduced, it later came to be viewed as the pinnacle of automotive styling excess.

For its 1960 models, Cadillac significantly refined their approach, shrinking the exaggerated fins from the previous year, reducing the egregious use of chrome trim and in many other ways created an infinitely more elegant statement. The full complement of power accessories was retained, however, so that today many aficionados consider 1960 Cadillac as the ultimate iteration. GM ’ s Executive Director of Styling from that period, Dave Holls, once remarked, “ I finally got it right with the 1960 Cadillac. I compare the 1959 model to actress Sophie Tucker, but the ’ 60 Cadillac is pure Grace Kelley. ”

With a total of thirteen Cadillac models issued in three series (plus one limited production custom chassis), the Eldorado Biarritz convertible was the most elegant and desirable of all. Only 1285 units were produced, their cost new of over $7,000 ensuring exclusivity then and now.

The Biarritz offered here spent most of its life in California. A comprehensive frame-up restoration was completed in 2000 by CLC judge Wally Herman. The stunning result proclaims a subtle glamour with its magnificent champagne finish, matching interior (by Jenkins) and beige top. The correct parade boot is included as is a functional, blanket-type cover. An original-type liquid battery is available for show as well as a modern ‘ freedom style ’ unit for daily driving.

In 2005 the air suspension system was completely overhauled and recently the car was treated to a mechanical checkup and fresh detailing. The vendor is a CLC and AACA senior master judge, attesting to the discriminating eye and care with which the car has been maintained.

This remarkable car is being sold with many trophies and numerous original manuals and brochures to carry forward its exceptional provenance. A full, fitted car cover is also included.

No other car of the era, or since, can surpass the timeless style, beauty and grace of the 1960 Cadillac Eldorado convertibles. Unquestionably, this is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the very finest available.

Awards Won:
2000 Willistead Concours, Windsor, ON – Best in Class
2000 CLC Nationals, Newport, RI – 1st Place Junior
2001 AACA Nationals, Talladaga, AL – 1st Place Junior
2001 CLC Nationals, Denver, CO – 1st Place Senior
2001 AACA Nationals, Rochester, MN – 1st Place Senior
2002 Meadowbrook Hall Concours, Rochester, MI – 1st in Class
2002 AACA Grand Nationals, New Bern, NC – 1st Place
2002 AACA Nationals, Cedar Rapids, IA – 1st Preservation
2003 Eastern U.S. Concours, Bethlehem, PA – Best in Class
2003 Gilmore Red Barn Concours, Kalamazoo, MI – Best in Class
2003 AACA Nationals, Metropolis, IL – 2nd Preservation
2003 Eyes on Design Concours, -Detroit, MI – Cadillac / LaSalle Best of Show
2005 Concours at Ault Park, Cincinnati, OH – Best of Show / Best Interior
2005 CLC Nationals, Des Moines, IA – Most Favorite Car Award