We are no strangers to low-mile classics at Barn Finds. While some seller claims are verifiable via documentation, others must be taken on face value. This 1972 Cadillac Eldorado falls into the second category because the seller’s information is minimal. However, it is a tidy survivor that could be ideal for enthusiasts with luxury leanings. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Caddy listed here on eBay in Boca Raton, Florida. The seller set their BIN at $16,900 with the option to make an offer.
The Eldorado badge first appeared within Cadillac’s model range in 1953, and would remain a company staple until 2002. Cadillac launched its Ninth Generation Eldorado in 1971, with this car leaving the line the following year. Ordered in Willow with a White vinyl top, the shining paint makes a positive first impression. The seller’s images make it challenging to identify cosmetic imperfections in the panels or paint, although I did spot a couple of dings and marks when scrutinizing the photos. The vinyl top appears dirty and possibly stained, though careful cleaning may eliminate those issues without the cost of replacement. The underside shots reveal areas of surface corrosion, but no evidence of penetrating rust. The chrome and glass are in good condition, while the whitewalls provide the perfect finishing touch.
Eldorado buyers in 1972 received the company’s 500ci V8, an engine introduced in 1970, as standard equipment. Tighter emission regulations and the transition from quoting power and torque in Gross terms to Net from this model year meant that while the 500 generated a factory-quoted 365hp and 535 ft/lbs in 1971, this car should deliver 235hp and 385 ft/lbs. A three-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duties, and buyers also received power-assisted steering and brakes as standard. We’ve reached the point where this Caddy becomes a mystery machine. The seller doesn’t mention verifying the evidence for their four-digit odometer reading, nor do they provide information about the car’s mechanical condition. However, the fact that they indicate a willingness to negotiate a warranty suggests that this Eldorado is a turnkey proposition.
This Eldorado’s interior features the creature comforts that most buyers expected from a luxury vehicle in 1972. These include leather trim, climate-controlled air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, acres of faux woodgrain, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio. I spotted an underdash CD player, which appears to be the only addition. The wheel is cracked, and some plastic pieces are dirty or discolored. However, the lack of carpet wear and the fact that the leather only exhibits age wrinkles seem to support the seller’s mileage claim. The dash and pad look excellent, as does the woodgrain.
This 1972 Cadillac Eldorado is frustrating, but only because the seller provides so little information in their listing. Therefore, it appears that only an in-person inspection will confirm that this Caddy is all it is claimed to be. I admit I harbor doubts, but they are based solely on the supplied images. If the odometer reading is genuine, the BIN figure is justified. Have you seen enough to tempt you to pursue this Eldorado further?
I’m really glad the seller include a picture of the speedometer as “proof” of mileage, if he hadn’t I’d have assumed by the cars condition it was 106,xxx. It’s insulting that this tactic continues, they must think potential buyers are stupid. When they do this it call into question everything in their description. They’d be better off saying TMU and asking a bit less. This looks nice enough that it can stand on its own merits.
Steve R
Condition indicates more like 106K miles. Engine bay is terrible and the vinyl top and interior do not support the mileage claim unless this car was stored carelessly or outside, and maybe not even then. Pass.
Disappointed in that kind of mileage claim. Not only is it pretty obvious that it’s false, it calls into question the vetting process of the Website. Sorry, just my opinion.
I have a ’71 Eldo convertible in the same exterior colour, but with saddle interior. In comparing the condition of my car with about 78,000 miles, there is no way that the car shown here has any less than 106,000 miles.
I don’t believe Cadillac used phillips head screws to secure the stainless trim where the vinyl top meets the quarter panel. The biggest disappointment under the hood is the piece of lumber securing the battery. The carpet looks like a rubber mat. There’s some overspray as well.
The seller is asking at least $10K too much.
Just sent Angel 😇 an email on this one, and no, it’s not a 6K car.
Not by a long shot! What we have here folks is some crooked
car dealer trying to pass off a tired looking Caddy as a pristine
show place. I’ve lived in Florida
since 1986 and I can tell you first
hand that there isn’t an honest one in the bunch. If it’s got four wheels on it, they’ll try to sell it defects and all. Bent frames, cracked blocks, that’s just the beginning of the stuff they try to
hide from prospective customers
as low mileage cream puffs. Been there, did that, and got effed
over in the process. My advice?
If you REALLY want this car, take
someone with you that’s mechanically inclined to inspect
this car top to bottom before you plunk down your hard earned money and maybe get screwed like I did. 106K? yep. Maybe we
should call on Angel or the Cadillac Kid for their valued opinions on this car and read what they say before even considering this car. Nice, no thanks.
Should be donated to the Veterans program or Toys for Tots.
The owner will receive much more in tax write off than what it’s worth.
Too much over sell for me. I’m in agreement with Steve R.
Some people’s kids..
Wow!
I have been in the car hobby 50 years plus and find some Florida cars quite rusty due to salt and high humidity. This car is not so great condition for 6,000 miles. Only worth what someone is willing to pay.
Junk, run away! Obviously a liar car dealer.
Without even a hint as to why such little mileage on a 53 year old car…should tell you all you need to know.
well, it’s a dealer selling so i would need to see some paperwork to prove the miles as i would not go by a speedo pic. if that top is as bad as it looks in the pics i would remove and paint the roof white instead of vinal. price seems fair
As Tom Hanks girlfriend says RUN Forest RUN!!
Seems to be an awful lot of surface and deeper rust everywhere (trunk mat is hiding a lot)… the vinyl top looks like a lot of mold, the seats are awful, its got the cheapest carpet I have ever seen in a Caddy and there’s no way, like almost every other comment about the mileage that that is accurate… almost makes me think this is a flood car? I never liked this yr Eldo anyways, looks bloated and ugly. Tidy survivor? Mmm…