Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz (4th generation)
The flamboyant peak of the American tailfin era and a blue-chip collector icon.
- Power
- 345 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.5 s
- Top speed
- 120 mph
- Est. value
- $150k–$415k
About the Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz
The 1959 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz is the definitive symbol of 1950s American optimism and excess, famous for sporting the tallest tailfins ever fitted to a production car. As the range-topping convertible, it featured the 'Tri-Power' 390 cubic-inch V8 equipped with three two-barrel carburetors and came standard with advanced features like air suspension and power-operated everything. Its styling, led by Harley Earl and David Holls, remains one of the most recognisable silhouettes in automotive history. For collectors, the Biarritz represents the absolute zenith of the chrome-and-fin era, offering a cloud-like ride that is as dramatic today as it was at launch.
Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz specs
The Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz produces 345 bhp (257 kW) and 590 Nm (435 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h).
| Make | Cadillac |
|---|---|
| Model | Eldorado Biarritz |
| Generation | Fourth Generation (4th generation) |
| Trim | Biarritz |
| Years | 1959–1960 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Convertible |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 1,320 built |
| Original price | About $7,400 when new |
| Engine | 6.4-litre Tri-Power V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,391 cc (6.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 345 bhp (257 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 590 Nm (435 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 10.5 s |
| Top speed | 120 mph (193 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,295 kg (5,060 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 150 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz worth?
A typical Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz is estimated to be worth $150,000 – $415,000 (about £112,000 – £309,000).
Its original price when new was about $7,400.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz rarity in CarSpot
The Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz fun facts
- The 1959 Eldorado's tailfins stand 45 inches (114 cm) off the ground, a record for a production vehicle.
- While air suspension was standard, many owners converted to coil springs for reliability; surviving examples with functional original air systems are exceptionally rare.
- A rare no-cost option for the 1959 Biarritz was front bucket seats, which were only selected for an estimated 99 cars.