Lofty tail fins were the hot ticket in the latter half of the 1950s, and I would submit that the 1957-58 Cadillac Eldorado coupes and convertibles had the coolest-looking set in the business. Sharply defined and looking grafted onto the sloping rear, they were beautiful signature features of these memorable luxury cars.
The Pick of the Day appears to be a splendid example, a 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible that still looks good after an older restoration that retained its attractive and distinctive factory color of Elysian Green Metallic.
“The third-generation Eldorado saw some of the most outrageous fin designs of all time,” according to the Kentwood, Michigan, dealer advertising the Eldo on ClassicCars.com. “It also featured a revised rear-end design featuring a low, downswept fender line. Quite honestly the 1957 was one of GM’s most memorable designs.”
The Eldorados were pricey halo cars for Cadillac dealers, following the lead of the Lincoln Mk 2 as ultra-luxury models for special customers, and costing as much at the time as a Rolls-Royce.
The Caddy is powered by a 365cid V8 with dual carburetors and linked with a 4-speed Hydromatic transmission, the dealer says. “Power is delivered to the rear wheels effortlessly making for a pleasurable driving experience.
“Driving this luxurious piece of American automotive history is truly a joy and experience that everyone should get the opportunity to enjoy.”
The Eldorado was restored in the 1990s and has had the same owner since 1985, the seller says. The paint looks to be in good shape, and the numerous pieces of chrome and trim are in great shape, the seller says.
“This is one of the few examples that was fitted with the optional power-operated convertible top,” the dealer notes.” The top is in working condition with a new cylinder and pump. The convertible body makes for not only an exceptional driving experience but also elegant styling.”
The Olive Green interior is, of course, richly appointed and includes all the power and convenience features available at the time.
The Eldorado was an expensive car then, and it remains so as a collector car in what appears to be wonderful condition. The asking price is $99,500.
To view this vehicle on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
One of the best looking Cadillacs. In my opinion only the 58 is better. FWIW
The ’59 will always be remembered as the one to own. The ’58 is also really sweet.
OH THE FINS
Why a 348 CI engine instead of a 365 CI?
Thanks. Fixed.
If it had a set of Texas Long Horns at the front of the hood …..priceless !
Yikes!
Not to be nitpicky, but I believe it’s “Hydramatic” not “ Hydromatic”
Looks like a sweet ride, but after 64 years on the planet I have to wonder what’s under that paint job or under the hood, the electrical and so on…. for 100K it should have have just seen a rotisserie .paint job new chrome and a modern engine and system.
How much did this car cost
Maybe the most beautiful car ever designed. A sculpture in steel enhanced with leather and glass…and brilliant use of spectacularly contoured chrome! The ’58 was a letdown with a front that looked like a ’56 Chevy. But O That Lovely ’57….!
I miss those days thay were the best time