1960 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz

Description

“A classic new profile… a restrained use of adornment… and a grille of such elegance that it might have been crafted by a master jeweler — these mark the 1960 Standard of the World.” 

Cadillac’s 1960 Eldorado Biarritz, designed by the legendary Harley Earl, stands as a pinnacle of American automotive luxury and flamboyance, embodying the height of Cadillac’s design and engineering prowess during GM’s golden era. As one of the most exclusive and expensive American cars of its time, the Biarritz was a convertible masterpiece that stretched nearly 19 feet. 

Only 1,285 units of the ’60 Eldorado Biarritz were produced, making it a rare and coveted collector’s item today. Priced at $7,401 — the average cost of a house in the U.S. was $12,700 — it was more expensive than its Lincoln competitors and came standard with features that were optional on lesser Cadillacs. These included factory air conditioning, power everything, remote trunk release, and the futuristic headlamp dimmer. 

Stylistically, the 1960 model marked the end of Cadillac’s most extravagant tailfin era, with slightly toned-down fins compared to 1959 but still unmistakably bold. Under the hood, the Biarritz was powered by a 390 cubic-inch V8 engine with either the Tri-Power setup or the optional (and less finicky) single carb. 

Highlights 

• One of only 1,285 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz models built for 1960 

• Powered by a 390 cu-in V8 with optional single four-barrel carburetor rated at 325 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque 

• Four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission 

• Original Beige leather (15) trim 

• Full restoration in 2018 included: 

  • Refinished in original Champagne (97) paint with ceramic coating 

  • Upgraded alternator, which looks like the factory generator 

  • New black convertible top 

• The body plate decodes as: 

  • Style: 60-6467 – 1960 Eldorado Biarritz 

  • Body: FW 825 – Fleetwood body number 

  • Trim: 15 – Beige leather 

  • Paint: 97 – Champagne 

  • Top: 1 – White soft top (now black) 

  • Accessories: EH – Soft Ray Glass, Heater  

• The chassis number (60E060715) decodes as: 

  • 60 – 1960 model year 

  • E – Eldorado Biarritz 

  • 060715 – Sequential production number  

Features 

• Optional front bucket seats 

• Power steering, windows, power front seats, and top 

• Autronic Eye (automatic headlight dimming) 

• Air conditioning 

• 120 mph speedometer 

• Pushbutton AM radio (has been restored and works) 

• Analog clock 

• Rear fender skirts 

• 15-inch steel wheels with Cadillac crest covers 

• Power-assisted drum brakes 

Known Imperfections 

• Small indentation in upholstery on driver’s side rear quarter side panel 

• Whitewall tires show some scuffing 

Included 

• Spare tire 

• Jack 

• Carpeted Cadillac floor mats 

• Original generator 

Ownership History 

The Seattle, Washington, seller of this 1960 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz has owned it since December 2022.