Cadillac Eldorado IV gallery (1959–1960)

The fourth-generation Cadillac Eldorado (1959–1960) achieved legendary status with its record-tall rocket tailfins and extravagant Space Age design details.

All photos 26 I 1 1953–1953 II 3 1954–1956 III 5 1957–1958 IV 9 1959–1960 V 0 1961–1962 VI 0 1963–1964 VII 0 1965–1966 VIII (E-body) 1 1967–1970 IX (E-body) 5 1971–1978 X (E-body) 0 1979–1985 XI (E-body) 0 1986–1991 XII (E-body) 0 1992–2002

2048 x 1536 2 1959

2048 x 1536 1959

2048 x 1536 1959

1024 x 768 106 Biarritz Convertible (1959)

1024 x 768 104 Biarritz Convertible (1959)

1024 x 768 99 Biarritz Convertible (1959)

1024 x 768 100 Biarritz Convertible (1959)

1024 x 768 96 Biarritz Convertible (1959)

1024 x 768 109 Biarritz Convertible (1959)

The fourth-generation Cadillac Eldorado was built during the 1959 and 1960 model years on GM's revised full-size X-frame architecture. The 1959 model became a cultural milestone of post-war American industrial design, famous for its towering 42-inch tailfins housing twin bullet taillights and sweeping curved glass canopy. The lineup featured the Biarritz convertible, Seville hardtop coupe, and the bespoke Eldorado Brougham four-door sedan, which featured custom coachwork handcrafted by Pininfarina in Turin, Italy. For 1960, styling was toned down with lowered tailfins and cleaner horizontal body side chrome moldings for a streamlined aesthetic.

Propulsion was provided by a 390 cubic-inch (6.4-liter) V8 engine producing 345 horsepower, fed by a triple two-barrel Rochester Tri-Power induction system. The engine mated to a smooth four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Available advanced technology included air suspension, an Autronic Eye automatic headlight dimmer, Cruise Guard speed control, power steering, power windows, and heavy-duty power drum brakes. Interior craftsmanship showcased full leather upholstery and polished aluminum trim accents. Standard and available equipment included power steering, power drum brakes, power window controls, power seat adjustment, and premium interior upholstery appointments.