60k Original Miles: 1960 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz
There is nothing like hitting the road on a sunny day in a classic convertible with the top down and the wind in your hair. Some enthusiasts prefer cars with a sporting pedigree, while others find a more luxurious alternative irresistible. Those in the second category will probably give this 1960 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz more than a passing glance. It presents beautifully as an original and unmolested survivor, with its odometer showing 60,000 genuine miles. The seller feels it needs a new home, so they have listed the classy Caddy here on eBay in Columbus, Ohio. Bidding has raced to $60,000, with that figure below the reserve.
The 1959 Cadillac range became iconic, courtesy of enormous fins that threatened low-flying aircraft. The company released a more restrained vehicle in 1960, although the razor-sharp fins still dominated its appearance. This Eldorado Biarritz presents superbly in Olympic White with a Black power top. I have always preferred these classics with the top down because it accentuates the long and low styling that helps the Biarritz stand out. The seller uses the word “beautiful” when describing its paint, chrome, and top. It is hard to argue with that assessment because those areas show no signs of significant flaws or defects. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and the lack of visible surface corrosion in the engine bay suggests the car should be rust-free. That isn’t iron-clad proof that there aren’t hidden problems, but it is encouraging. I always recommend an in-person inspection, but I suspect it probably won’t unearth any nasty surprises. The tinted glass is flawless, and this Caddy is guaranteed to turn heads when the lucky new owner wheels it out of their garage.
One potential problem with owning a classic convertible is there is no way to hide a substandard interior with the top down. This Cadillac’s new owner faces no such challenges because the interior is superb. The contrasting Black trim helps this Eldorado to stand out, and the only fault worth noting is some slight wear on the front seat piping on the driver’s side. Otherwise, the remaining leather is spotless, the dash and pad haven’t succumbed to UV exposure, and the carpet is excellent. I am slightly surprised it doesn’t feature air conditioning, but the buyer receives power windows, power locks, a six-way power seat, a remote trunk release, and an AM radio.
The news keeps getting better with this Biarritz, with the seller confirming it is a numbers-matching classic. The engine bay houses the legendary 390ci V8, which sends 345hp and 435 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a four-speed automatic transmission. Outright performance was never the aim of the exercise with a car tipping the scales at 5,310 lbs, but this Caddy’s ability to cruise effortlessly on the open road at 70mph is unquestioned. The seller is sparing with their information, not indicating whether they hold evidence confirming the odometer reading of 60,000 original miles. They admit the air suspension has been removed, but not how this classic runs or drives. However, like every other aspect of this classic, the visual indications are positive.
Cadillac was the undisputed market leader in the American luxury car market in 1960, selling 142,184 vehicles across all models. Only 1,285 buyers spent a considerable premium on an Eldorado Biarritz, and it is unclear how many still exist. This is a genuine survivor, and the forty-two bids submitted confirm interest is high. However, I believe there is a fair way to go before the reserve is met, and I see no reason why it can’t delve into six-figure territory before the hammer falls. The action has already been spirited, and it could become frantic as the end draws near. Do you have a figure in mind for the final sale price? It will be fascinating to see whether we have a reader who can hit the nail on the head.
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Comments
This car has serious presence. You can love it or loathe it, but you can’t ignore it. Personally, I think it’s magnificent!
I never knew they (Caddillac) made the Biarritz in convertible form. Every one I ever saw was a hardtop convertible wit a brushed stainless top…and in those years I lived in SoCal!!!
This was the year Cadillac turned into an automotive queen instead of the previous year’s garish missile launcher. These are truly attractive cars.
CLICK BAIT!!!!
Here we go with these goofy ass mileage claims again, if the ad doesn’t say low mileage with proof don’t even say it.
Beautiful car. On the lack of AC, even for a luxury car, it was less common to equip a northern convertible with AC in the day. My father would buy a new Bonneville convertible at cost every year, then sell it as a demo at the end of the year. He told me that one of the reasons he decided to keep the 66 was because, for some reason, that was the year people in the northeast started wanting AC in their convertibles.
Great opportunity to BE A RITZ ! Unfortunately price is a bit RITZY for me.
A man needs to make a statement. This car makes a statement! Nobody ignores a car like this when it cruises by.
A beautiful Biarritz that should hit close to $90K. In this condition these bring over $100K often at auctions. I myself am not a fan of solid black interiors on Cadillacs of this vintage, but it’s hard to fault this one.
The interior should have been white too. Such a special car to have. .Can’t imagine buying a car like this and not having AC. Probably had crank up windows too. Like being all dressed up with sneakers on your feet.
All Eldorados had power windows and you can barely see the front passenger window button in that interior shot. Nice color combination and the lower fins of the 1960 car made it look classier, especially from the side. I see the bidding reaching $100k but where’s the rear window?
I’d be afraid to drive it, except maybe early Sunday mornings when there’s no traffic. Gorgeous car!
My mom had the Coupe De Ville. A 2 door hardtop looks better IMHO.We called it the Batmobile. I hope someone is driving it today.
My guess is $135,000.00. The market is not quite as strong as it was last year the so called experts claim. This is as nice as a 60 model comes, I have personal preference to the 63 model 62 Convertible. And any big luxury car like this Cadillac must have factory A/C, power windows, power seat and power top. Any delete makes it undesirable to me.
God Bless America
Beautiful piece of art. Cars generally fall into two categories IMO. They announce their presence or they are discovered. These cars when they turn the corner announce their presence all others are discovered by happenstance. It stands out at car shows.
Those fins look deadly. Beware loading the luggage and waxing. No horseplay near the rear.
My friend worked at the caddy dealership and all had a/c. Plus all the normal features. I’ve owned three caddies and quite the drive.
Those ’59 & ’60 Cadillacs , were ” enormous ” in size ! Today’s new and late model cars are so tiny in comparison to these late fifties time capsules . Just think of the cost of making cars that size today ? I’ll bet the pricetag would at the very least be $150,000 ! Let’s sail away in that 1960 Caddy . Happy Motoring !
I’m betting the price would be double that not to mention the parking spaces being half the size for modern day cars. Cadillacs were called hogs around that era for a reason.
It’s missing a lot.
No AC, no autronic eye (headlight dimmer), air ride removed, no cruise control…
These are very common on the Eldorado model, and optional on the lesser, cheaper models which share the same body.
Still, a great example, but if you want the Eldorado factory options this isn’t the one.
What do you want egg in your beer?
@ Frog
You’ve missed the point. Yolk’s on you? 😆
In Florida, you will not be able to drive it for 8-1/2 months of the year w/o A/C.
Missing options and bad engine compartment will keep it under $100k from discriminating buyers.
CADILLAC cruising all day in lap of luxury and comfort