Vehicle Description
Engine No. 5762030978
• The ultimate convertible Cadillac of 1957
• Frame-off restoration
• Eye-catching color combination
325 bhp, 365 cu. in. OHV V-8, dual four-barrel carburetors,
four-speed Hydra-Matic transmission, coil-spring independent front
suspension and live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and
power-assisted four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 129
in.
In 1957, the average new car sold for $2,749, the average worker
earned $4,230 yearly, and the median family income neared $5,000.
Physicians topped the charts at $22,000 per year, while teachers
earned slightly below average. Factory workers could earn $2.08 an
hour. Not surprisingly, Cadillacs catered to a more upscale
audience, with the least expensive model starting at $4,781, and
with Eldorado Convertibles priced at a lofty $7,286.
Eldorado's earned a complete restyling, with inboard, sharply
pointed rear fins for 1957, and styling was inspired by the
Eldorado Brougham and Park Avenue show cars. The Biarritz
designation was used for the second year, to differentiate it from
the companion hardtop Eldorado Seville, which was added to the
lineup in 1956. Only 1,800 units were produced, all with Cadillac's
365-cubic inch V-8, producing 325 brake horsepower through twin
four-barrel carburetors, which was 20 brake horsepower more than
standard Cadillacs.
This beautiful example has benefited from a thorough frame-off
restoration that was completed in late 2012. The list of work
executed includes a complete engine and transmission tear down and
rebuild, along with a driveline overhaul. Additionally, the
Cadillac has received a complete brake system refurbishment, all
new suspension components, a new hydraulic pump and cylinder and
hoses, and a new fuel tank, sending unit, and fuel lines.
The underside of the body is as-original, using red oxide primer;
all electrical components have been overhauled, including a new
$4,500 reproduction electrical harness. The Eldorado has been
fitted with all new weather stripping, the top frame has been
reworked, and all new glass has been installed (including the
windshield).
The Biarritz has been refinished in Dakota Red; the base and clear
coat were sanded with 3,000 grit paper and buffed to a wet-look
gloss. The consigner describes the results as spectacular. The
interior has new leather upholstery, and the white vinyl soft top
is also new. It is reported that thousands of dollars were invested
in the triple-plating of the chrome and the polishing of stainless
steel components. Even the original radio has been re-worked, and
it operates flawlessly in this car.
Given its relative rarity for a production car, and its stunning
color combination, this is one 1950s classic that's certain to turn
heads wherever it goes. It is the perfect car for cruise-ins,
shows, and Cadillac-LaSalle Club events.
This vehicle is located at Atomic Motors Classic Car Sales and
Restorations in Henderson, NV just 20 mins from the fabulous Las
Vegas Strip. Come down and see us or call at 702-826-3811. We are
on-line at www.atomicmotors.net
