Cadillac Eldorado V gallery (1961–1962)

The fifth-generation Cadillac Eldorado was manufactured for 1961 and 1962 strictly as the Biarritz convertible, highlighting sleek tailored body lines.

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

The fifth-generation Cadillac Eldorado was produced for the 1961 and 1962 model years on General Motors' full-size C-body chassis. Starting in 1961, the Eldorado model line was trimmed exclusively to the Biarritz convertible, as the Seville hardtop coupe was discontinued. Styled under GM design chief Bill Mitchell, the exterior embraced crisp horizontal body planes, reduced height upper tailfins, and bottom skeg fins extending along the lower rocker panels. The 1962 model brought a revised bi-angular front grille structure and simplified bumper end caps that emphasized a stately open-air luxury presence.

Under the hood sat a 390 cubic-inch (6.4-liter) V8 engine developing 325 horsepower, equipped with a single four-barrel carburetor. The powerplant was paired with a four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. A safety-focused dual-circuit master cylinder hydraulic braking system was introduced across all models in 1962, backed by standard power steering, power window lifts, power seats, a power folding soft top, and a Signal-Seeking AM radio with power antenna. Standard and available equipment included power steering, power drum brakes, power window controls, power seat adjustment, and premium interior upholstery appointments.