Cadillac Eldorado 9th Generation (1971–1977) Price Guide

The 1971–1977 Cadillac Eldorado was the largest and most powerful front-wheel-drive car in the world. A behemoth; a 224-inch, 5,000lb personal luxury coupe using the 500 cubic inch (8,194cc) V8 and a front-wheel-drive transaxle layout that defied every expectation of what a car this big could do. It was also one of the most beautiful American cars of the 1970s.

The Car

The ninth-generation Eldorado launched in 1971 with a wheelbase of 126.3 inches and the massive 500 cubic inch V8 producing 365bhp; the largest displacement V8 ever fitted to a production car. Front-wheel drive was achieved through a complex transaxle arrangement placing the engine longitudinally and driving the front wheels. Convertible body styles were available 1971–1976, with the 1976 Eldorado convertible marketed as “the last American convertible”, a claim that proved incorrect but generated significant sales. The 1976 convertible is the most sought-after of the generation.

Buying

The 1976 convertible is the collector’s Eldorado from this generation. The emotional appeal of the “last American convertible” marketing combined with the most developed mechanical specification. The coupe offers the same imposing proportions at lower cost. The 500ci engine requires correct tuning and regular cooling system maintenance.