Sometimes referred to as land yachts, cars like this 1972 Cadillac Coupe de Ville spent decades in the automotive wilderness. However, a new generation of enthusiasts is irresistibly drawn to these classics and the luxurious motoring experience they promise. This Coupe is a gem, having been part of the same family since Day One. It presents superbly, unsurprisingly given the odometer shows 30,000 genuine miles. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this wonderful survivor listed here on eBay in Troy, Michigan. The seller set their BIN at $18,700 with the option to make an offer.
Released in 1971, Cadillac’s Fourth Generation de Ville range was not only larger than its predecessor but also more modern in styling. The Coupe de Ville remained a favorite among buyers, and this 1972 example is a wonderful survivor. It has remained part of the same family for fifty-four years, and its overall condition suggests it has been a treasured possession. Its Adriatic Turquoise paint shines beautifully, complemented by the White vinyl top. The listing photos suggest the vinyl has taken on a dirty appearance, but this could also be due to poor image quality. The close-ups reveal surface corrosion on the frame and the inner sections of the lower doors. However, there is no evidence of penetrating rust. Addressing those shortcomings should be a priority to prevent further deterioration. The trim and tinted glass are in good condition, and this Caddy retains its factory wheel covers and fender skirts.
Coupe de Ville buyers in 1972 paid a premium for their vehicle, rightly expecting a high level of luxury. This car delivers, featuring climate-control air conditioning, power windows, a six-way power front seat, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo radio. Trimmed in Turquoise cloth and leather to complement the exterior paint shade, this Caddy’s interior is in first-rate condition. There is no evidence of wear or deterioration, and no aftermarket additions. UV rays haven’t taken a toll, and the overall condition speaks of a classic that has always been treated respectfully.
If I were to choose one word to describe this Cadillac, “honest” would seem the most appropriate. Nobody has detailed this car within an inch of its life, allowing buyers to see precisely what they will get for their money. This classic’s engine bay demonstrates that, presenting as you would rightly expect from a survivor-grade vehicle of this vintage. Cadillac’s iconic 472ci V8 delivers 220hp and 365 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission, while power steering and power brakes were standard in 1972. Although the seller claims this beauty has a genuine 30,000 miles on the clock, they don’t mention supporting documentation. However, the car’s one-family history could mean that evidence exists in the form of Service Records. What is clear is that this Cadillac is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives extremely well. Flying in and driving home is a viable option the buyer may consider.
Timing is everything in the automotive world, and Cadillac must have thought it hit a sweet spot, releasing its latest version of the de Ville range in 1971. The company could never have envisaged the energy crisis that occurred a few years later, or how it would negatively impact the sales of large, fuel-hungry vehicles like the Coupe de Ville. These cars became virtually obsolete overnight, and companies spent the rest of the decade downsizing their offerings to cope with the changes. As a result, many of these classics disappeared from our roads during the 1980s, but this Coupe defied that trend as a wonderful survivor. Therefore, if a slice of early 1970s excess is appealing, this ’72 Caddy deserves a closer look.
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