Cessna Excel suffered an engine failure on base leg; the flight crew declared and emergency and landed without incident.

Narrative

On a right base for a visual approach 3.5 miles from runway the left engine began to spool down on its own accompanied by the caution and warning lights expected during a normal engine shutdown. No abnormal indications prior to spool down. Engine gauges confirmed engine failure. Left throttle was matched with right throttle at about 50% N1 when spool down began. Crew identified engine failed and the First Officer continued as pilot flying. Captain informed ATC and declared an emergency in accordance with company policy. Crew completed memory items for engine failure on final approach; auto-pilot was already disengaged; flaps were at approach; speed was above single engine approach speed and the First Officer advanced right throttle as needed. Crew verified landing configuration and flaps were extended to land at the runway threshold. Landing was normal (within 2-3 minutes of initial spool down) with brief use of right reverse thrust. Exited runway and advised ATC that no assistance was needed. Left throttle; at idle; was placed in cut-off. [We] completed after landing checklist and reviewed/completed Abnormal/Emergency checklist during taxi-in. Due to short time factor and workload; Captain did not attempt to explain the situation to the passengers. Also; it did not appear that use of the brace position was necessary. Passengers' transportation was standing by and they deplaned and departed immediately. It is likely that they were unaware of the event.