325 bhp, 365 cu. in. 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-assisted hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 129.5"

• Freshly restored by marque specialists

• Restrained elegance from a ’50s style leader

A product of the legendary GM ‘Motorama’ shows, from its introduction in 1953 the Cadillac Eldorado established itself as a luxurious and impressive flagship for the brand, the pinnacle of achievement and the aspirational dream of every GM car buyer. The Eldorados forecast style ideas which would later filter down to lesser models and guaranteed exclusivity for its owners with a lofty price tag.

With the launch of the 1957 Cadillac line came a new “X”-frame, which did away with side rails and provided added structural strength, contributing to an even quieter, smoother ride than before as well as allowing a lower body placement for reduced overall height. This suited the elegant style of the Eldorado, both the Seville hardtop and the Biarritz convertible.

The vendor has had a love for the Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz since he first saw a brand-new one at the age of 10. While Cadillac’s style went on to a flamboyant climax toward the end of the decade, the simple, clean elegance and restrained modernism of the 1957 Eldorado remained his preference.

The subject car was reportedly purchased as an original, rust-free example four years ago, and it is now a showroom fresh, completely restored example. Cadillac specialists Jenkins Restoration of North Wilkesboro, North Carolina recently completed the work and, as might be expected of this respected shop, employed materials which are stated to be correct and to original factory standards.

Presented in its original, period exterior finish of Starlight Silver Metallic with a brilliant red leather interior and black vinyl soft top, this Eldorado has hardly been driven since leaving the Jenkins shop, with only test and sorting mileage covered. The distinctive finned Turbine wheels have been freshly refinished, and all the chrome and bright trim has been restored or refinished to a high level. The interior is new, with expertly done upholstery and the extensive bright trim finished to a high level. Under the hood the distinctive ‘bat wing’ air cleaner, underneath which sit dual four-barrel carburetors, dominates the view. Both the engine and transmission, original to the car, have been rebuilt, and a new exhaust system has been fitted.

For the connoisseur who knows and appreciates the great 1950s American convertibles, the opportunity to purchase one of the pinnacles of style, quality and exclusivity is one which is to be carefully considered. There is a reason Cadillac lived up to its slogan ‘The Standard of the World’ in this period, and this Eldorado Biarritz gives ample proof.