Prices, Specifications & 360° Interactive
Cadillac Eldorado 4th Generation - Price, Specs and 360° Interactive
Cadillac Eldorado 4th Generation - 360° Interactive
Cadillac Eldorado 4th Generation - Key Specifications
Cadillac Eldorado 4th Generation Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Full-Size Luxury Convertible/Coupe |
| Production Years | 1959–1960 |
| Engine | 6.4L (390 cu in) OHV V8 |
| Power Output | 345 hp / 257 kW @ 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 583 Nm @ 3,100 rpm |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Hydra-Matic Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | Approximately 10–11 seconds |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h (118 mph) approx. |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 20–23 L/100 km (estimated) |
| CO₂ Emissions | N/A (Pre-regulation era) |
| Length | 5,715 mm |
| Width | 2,028 mm |
| Height | 1,422 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,210 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2,300 kg approx. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 liters |
| Seating Capacity | 6 |
| Front Suspension | Independent with Coil Springs |
| Rear Suspension | Live Axle with Coil Springs |
| Brakes | Drum Brakes on All Wheels |
| Wheels | 15" Steel Wheels with Full Chrome Covers |
| Tires | 8.20 x 15 Bias-Ply Whitewall Tires |
| Chassis | Body-on-Frame Construction |
| Interior Features |
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| Exterior Features |
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| Driver Assistance & Safety |
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Some Interesting Facts
Famous for Its Enormous Tailfins
The 1959 Eldorado is world-renowned for its dramatic tailfins, which reached their highest and most flamboyant peak, topped by dual bullet-shaped taillights.Available in Two Body Styles
The 4th generation Eldorado was offered as the Eldorado Biarritz convertible and the Eldorado Seville hardtop coupe, both representing Cadillac’s pinnacle of luxury.Powered by a Massive 390 V8
Both model years featured a 390 cubic inch (6.4-liter) V8 engine, producing 345 horsepower, providing smooth yet powerful cruising capabilities.One of the Longest Cars of Its Time
The 1959 Eldorado measured a staggering 225 inches (5.7 meters) in length, making it one of the longest and most imposing production cars of the era.Extremely Expensive and Exclusive
With a base price of over $7,400 (about $75,000+ in today’s money), the Eldorado was one of the most expensive American cars, resulting in very low production numbers.Signature Cadillac Styling
It featured iconic dual headlamps, jewel-like grille inserts, extravagant chrome accents, and a dramatic “rocket age” design language that defined late 1950s American cars.Air Suspension Option
The 1959 Eldorado came with an optional air suspension system, designed to give a smoother ride; however, it was known to be problematic and many owners later converted to conventional springs.Lavish Interior Luxury
Interiors were incredibly luxurious, with leather upholstery, power windows and seats, air conditioning, and even optional cruise control, showcasing Cadillac’s commitment to innovation.Rare and Collectible Today
Due to its limited production—only about 1,320 Eldorado Biarritz convertibles were built in 1959—the 4th generation Eldorado is highly prized by collectors.An Icon of American Excess and Elegance
The 1959–1960 Eldorado is often considered the ultimate symbol of postwar American automotive excess, embodying the jet-age styling and optimistic spirit of the era.
Cadillac Eldorado 4th Generation - Price
The 1959–1960 Cadillac Eldorado is the peak of American automotive excess, featuring rocket-ship tailfins, dazzling chrome, and a 390 HP 6.4L V8. These cars define late-1950s optimism and remain the ultimate collector Cadillacs, rivaling the 1959 Chevrolet Impala and Lincoln Continental in nostalgia value.
1. Price Ranges (EUR, 2024)
(Note: EU imports are rare—most are LHD US-spec cars.)
By Body Style
Eldorado Biarritz Convertible (1959–1960): €80,000 – €200,000+
(The most desirable—only 1,320 made in 1959.)Eldorado Seville Hardtop (1959–1960): €60,000 – €150,000
(Rarer than convertibles but less sought-after.)
Condition-Based Pricing
ConditionPrice Range (€)NotesProject Car (Non-runner, needs full restoration)€30,000 – €60,000Rust is common—check frame and floors.Driver-Quality (Running, needs cosmetic work)€70,000 – €120,000Ideal for those who enjoy "patina."Numbers-Matching Restored€130,000 – €200,000Must have original engine (390 HP 6.4L V8).Concours-Level (Award Winner)€200,000+1959 models command a premium.
2. Key Factors Affecting Value
✅ What Adds Value
Factory Air Conditioning: Ultra-rare in 1959–1960 (+€20k–€30k).
Tri-Power Carburetion (1960 only): Adds 15–20 HP (+€15k).
Two-Tone Paint (e.g., "Pink Champagne"): +10–15%.
⚠️ What Kills Value
Rust in X-Frame or Trunk Floor: Structural death sentence.
Non-Original Engine: A swapped-in 350 V8? -50%.
Missing "Biarritz" or "Seville" Badges: Likely a base Cadillac clone.
3. Must-Check Items
🔧 Mechanical:
Hydra-Matic Transmission: Should shift smoothly—rebuilds cost €5k+.
Power Windows/Seats: Vacuum systems fail (€1k per motor).
Brakes: Drum brakes need frequent adjustment.
🎨 Cosmetic:
Chrome Condition: Pitted? Rechroming costs €10k+.
Tailfin Alignment: Should be symmetrical (hand-formed panels vary).
📄 Paperwork:
Cadillac Club Documentation: Verify production numbers.
Title History: No "Salvage" brands (common for neglected 50s cars).
4. Market Trends
📈 Appreciating Models
1959 Biarritz Convertible: +8% yearly (peak fin design).
Unrestored Survivors: €150k+ if under 30k miles.
📉 Depreciating Examples
Modified/Restomods: Purists prefer stock (-20–30%).
4-Door Sedans: Not Eldorados—don’t get fooled.
5. Ownership Costs
Annual Maintenance: €5k–€15k (hydraulics love to fail).
Fuel Economy: 15–18L/100km (if driven gently).
Storage: Needs a climate-controlled garage (chrome hates humidity).
Fun Fact: The 1959 Eldorado’s tailfins were inspired by Lockheed fighter jets, Cadillac denied it to avoid scaring buyers.
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