Why this vehicle matters
The 1971-1978 Eldorado represents Cadillac at maximum displacement: the 500 cubic inch V8 remains the largest engine GM ever put in a production car. By 1975, emissions regulations had sapped the power, but the torque remained — these cars still moved with authority. The 1976 Eldorado convertible was marketed as 'the last American convertible,' creating a speculative frenzy that proved premature but made those cars collectible regardless. These are full-size personal luxury coupes at their most excessive — massive, comfortable, and completely unconcerned with efficiency.
Patina notes
The sheer size means finding covered storage can be challenging. The vinyl tops trap moisture and promote rust. The 500 V8 is reliable but thirsty. Many have been converted from air suspension to standard springs. Convertibles command significant premiums over coupes. Well-maintained examples with original interiors are increasingly valued.
Ownership reality
These are barges. The 500 V8 makes around 10-12 MPG on a good day. Parts availability is decent — the drivetrain shares much with other GM vehicles. The FWD system is the same chain-drive arrangement as earlier E-bodies. Comfortable for highway cruising; challenging to park in any modern lot. The 1976 convertibles are collected aggressively; the coupes offer similar character at lower prices.
The verdict
Buy if
You want maximum American luxury presence. You appreciate the 500 cubic inch bragging rights. You have space to store nearly 19 feet of car.
Skip if
You care about fuel economy. You need to park in tight spaces. You want a convertible but can't afford the premium.
What to look for
- → Frame rust (unibody, so critical)
- → Vinyl top moisture damage
- → Convertible top mechanism and weather seals
- → 500 V8 cooling system (overheating common)
- → Power accessories functionality
- → Interior condition (wide range of quality)
Common problems
- ⚠ Overheating in traffic
- ⚠ Power antenna and window failures
- ⚠ Climate control vacuum leaks
- ⚠ Fuel system issues from ethanol fuels
- ⚠ Frame rust at critical points
- ⚠ Convertible top hydraulics
Parts & community
Parts sources
- Cadillac/LaSalle Club
- Clark's Corvair Parts (some overlap)
- Kanter Auto Products
- Rock Auto
- eBay (common items)
Forums & communities
- CadillacForums.com
- Cadillac/LaSalle Club
- BigBodyForums.com
Sources
- Hagerty Valuation · 2026-02-04
Specifications
| Engine | 500 cu in V8 |
| Power | 190 hp (SAE net, 1975) |
| Torque | 360 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Turbo Hydra-Matic (FWD) |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Weight | 5,100 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 126.3 inches |
| Production | 47,344 (1975 coupes) |
Notable Features
- • 500 cubic inch V8 — largest GM production engine
- • Front-wheel drive personal luxury
- • Available as convertible (last American convertible 1976)
- • Massive presence on the road
- • Peak malaise-era luxury
About Cadillac
The Standard of the World. Cadillac defined American luxury for a century — chrome, fins, and engines you could land a plane on. When you made it, you bought a Cadillac.
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