1962 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertible

Lot details
Registration No: 906 XUD
Chassis No: 62E022449
Mot Expiry: April 2010

Mid-way through the glorious era of the big, finned Cadillacs, the styling of the 1962 models had been progressively toned down from the outrageous '59 with its rocketship tail-lights. The '62s had their main fins cropped - but the designers couldn't resist adding a pair of lower fins, in tribute to the jet age. Cornering lights in the front bumper were standard on Series 62s, and the tail-lights resided behind clear lenses. Coil-spring suspension with four-link location for the rear axle provided a supple ride. This was the 60th anniversary year for Cadillac, which produced 160,840 cars during the year, up 23,000 over 1961, all equipped with the new dual-circuit braking system and fifty-nine per cent sold with air conditioning. But production of the top-of-the range Biarritz Convertible, with its two doors and long boot, was held at an exclusive 1450 units, the same as the previous year. Standard equipment on all 6200-series cars included power brakes, power steering, automatic transmission, dual reversing lamps, two-speed wipers, remote control outside mirror, those cornering lamps - and seating for six! All were powered by the faithful 390 cu in (6.4-litre) hydraulic-lifter V8 engine with four-barrel Rochester carburettor, producing 325bhp and coupled to a four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This engine was the inspiration for Rolls-Royce's 6.2 and 6.75-litre V8s, and R-R used the same gearbox.

Finished in red with black upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "very good / excellent" condition with regard to its engine, automatic transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork. Since entering the current ownership via a Florida dealer in January 2007, the Caddy is understood to have been fitted with "new shock absorbers, steering linkage and brake hoses, all genuine parts imported from America". The vendor also reports "the power hood, six-way adjustable power front bench seat and power windows work perfectly" and that "the original radio can be supplied".