Chassis no. 5762110253

Series 62. 365-cid, 325-hp OHV V-8 engine, four-speed Hydra-Matic transmission; coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four -wheel power hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 129.5-inches

General Motors scored a hat trick with the 1953 Motorama traveling shows. All three of the upscale divisions, Oldsmobile, Buick and Cadillac, had prestige convertible “idea cars,” dramatic in design but close enough to the production models that they were ready to manufacture. Named Fiesta, Skylark and Eldorado, respectively, they entered limited production during the year. Based on the Series 62 convertible, the Eldorado differed in having a wrap-around windshield, a portent of GM’s future, a distinctive dipped cockpit contour and came with a hard “parade boot” to cover the top when lowered. Just 532 were built, at a price 90-percent above that of the Series 62 convertible.

For 1954, all Cadillacs had wrap-around windshields, and the Eldorado adopted the standard 62 body contours. Distinctive side trim now distinguished the car, and at just $1,300 more than the Series 62 convertible it was much more affordable. For 1955, the Eldorado previewed the “rocket ship” tail fins that would eventually be adopted across the board, and Sabre Spoke cast wheels replaced the wires of earlier Eldos. A higher-performance engine with dual four-barrel carburetors was now standard and exclusive.

The success of the Eldorado inspired the creation of a companion style, a hardtop coupe, for 1956. To distinguish the two, the coupe was designated “Seville,” the convertible the glitzier-sounding “Biarritz.” For 1957, the Eldorado was given a distinctive tail treatment, with rounded flanks, each bearing a single shark-like fin. Biarritz convertible production was 1,800 that year.

In Alpine White, with red-and-white leather interior, this 1957 Eldorado Biarritz has excellent body contours and paint. The brightwork shows well, while the new interior is universally excellent. The black convertible top is fitted with a white fiberglass parade boot when lowered. It is equipped with the standard Eldorado features of power steering, power brakes and power seat, as well as a Wonderbar signal-seeking radio and fresh-air heater. The engine compartment is nicely appointed, with engine in correct blue with gold valve covers and air cleaner. The underbody is tidy and clean as well.

There is no mistaking an Eldorado, with its distinctive fins and sultry rear quarters. This one is bound to be noticed wherever it goes.