1-of-101: 2004 Cadillac XLR Neiman Marcus Special Edition

Cadillac has a history of producing Special Editions, typically linking its brand with premium companies or notable designers. It released the XLR Neiman Edition in 2004, and only 101 of these cars left the factory. This one is a genuine survivor that presents beautifully. Of course, since it is a Cadillac, it is loaded with the luxury touches buyers expect from the marque. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting the rare XLR listed here at Hagerty in Newport Beach, California. The seller set their price at $36,000 for a classic with 26,000 original miles on the clock.

Cadillac unveiled the XLR at the 2003 North American International Auto Show and released the production version for the 2004 model year. It featured stunning styling and won almost universal praise for its retractable hardtop. It initially sold reasonably well for a “Halo” model commanding a premium price, but volumes fell short of the projected 5,000 vehicles per year required to remain financially viable. However, Cadillac persisted, with the last car leaving the factory in March 2009. As was a fairly common practice, the company released an exclusive version during the first year, called the Neiman Marcus Edition. Limited to 101 vehicles, it combined unique Ultra Violet paint with polished 18″ alloy wheels. Each example featured engraved, individually numbered sill plates. This car’s plates confirm it as the fifteenth car built, and the seller states they are its second owner. The images reveal no evidence of cosmetic imperfections in the panels and paint, and its garage-kept history ensures it is rust-free. The wheels look flawless, as do the trim and glass. The hardtop works as it should, providing excellent protection in adverse weather conditions.

Lifting this Cadillac’s hood reveals what many enthusiasts believe is a truly great V8. The 4.6-liter “Northstar” delivers an impressive 320hp and 310 ft/lbs of torque. Power feeds to the rear wheels via a five-speed 5L50 automatic transmission, with the XLR also featuring power steering, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, Electronic Traction Control, and the “StabiliTrak” four-channel stability enhancement system. The seller became the Caddy’s custodian in 2018 when they purchased it from the original owner with 22,000 miles on the clock. They have since added 4,000, confirming that this XLR has been meticulously maintained. That type of history ensures that this Cadillac is a turnkey proposition.

This XLR is so loaded with luxury equipment that it would probably be quicker to tell you what it doesn’t have. However, the buyer will slip behind the wheel of a classic featuring climate-controlled air conditioning, power windows, locks, seats, and mirrors, a Head-Up Display, a tilt wheel, GPS, and a premium Bose stereo with touchscreen controls. It is one of the first production cars featuring Adaptive Cruise Control, a feature we now take for granted. The interior is trimmed in a unique combination of Shale and Ebony leather with eucalyptus wood trim. If occupants don’t already feel pampered enough, the seats also feature heating and cooling for improved comfort. The condition is consistent with the odometer reading, with no major flaws or imperfections. The driver’s seat shows slight wear on the outer edge, but it is something a leather specialist could address for a few dollars. The dash is spotless, and the beautiful Bulgari-branded gauge cluster appears perfect. The seller states that there are no electronic gremlins, with every feature working as it should.

Of the 101 examples of the 2004 Cadillac XLR Neiman Marcus Edition produced, 99 found homes with the buying public. The company donated one to charity, and the final car has spent its life at the General Motors Cadillac Museum. Considering the total 2004 XLR production tally of 3,665 vehicles, the Neiman Marcus Edition accounts for only 2.75% of total sales. The seller’s price is above the market average, but it is probably realistic for a car of this caliber. Is this a car that you would consider pursuing further?