As the 1970s progressed, American car manufacturers were increasingly focusing on downsizing the new offerings that carried established badge names or reducing engine capacities across their current models. It seems that Cadillac was late receiving the memo because it wasn’t until the 1977 model year that they dumped their existing 500ci V8 in the Eldorado in favor of a 425ci unit. This change carried forward into the 1978 model year, which is when our feature car rolled off the line. It is a survivor that makes a positive first impression. Part of its secret rests in its odometer reading, which is a claimed 7,000 genuine miles. The owner feels that the time is right to part with the giant Caddy, so he has listed it for sale here on eBay. It is located in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, and while the owner has set a BIN of $20,000, he leaves the option open to make an offer.

Taken at face value, this Eldorado presents as well as you might expect for a vehicle of this type with a four-figure odometer reading. The Cotillion White paint shines impressively, while the padded landau-style vinyl top looks flawless. The panels are straight, and there are no signs of dings, dents, or rust. The damage-prone hubcaps are in excellent condition, the remaining trim and glass look spotless, and the whitewall tires add what seems to be a perfect finishing touch to the exterior. So far, it seems nothing but promising, and the seller doesn’t mention any history of repairs or accident damage. That’s where I start to feel some slight misgivings. I have noticed a couple of inconsistencies with this exterior. These could be nothing, but they are worth investigating. Most of the panel gaps look about as tight and consistent as anyone would have the right to expect from a premium model like the Eldorado. However, the gaps on the passenger side door are odd, especially along the trailing edge. That is the tip of the iceberg, especially when we look at the last photo that I’ve included. The gaps between the trunk lid and the rear quarter panels are significantly different from one side to the other. It makes me wonder whether this car has received a hit at some point. It is a question that would be worth asking, especially when considering this classic’s potential value.

From 1977, the 500ci V8 that had powered earlier Eldorados was placed out to pasture, and in its place, we find the 425ci unit that produces 180hp. This power finds its way to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission and the front wheels. It should be no surprise to learn that given its luxury leanings, power steering and power brakes were an integral part of the Eldorado package. At 5,048lbs, this Caddy is a long way from being classed as a lightweight. That means that the 19.4-second ¼-mile ET is about on par with what most buyers might expect. The owner claims that this car has a genuine 7,000 miles on the clock, but he doesn’t indicate whether he holds verifying evidence. If given little more than a passing glance, the engine bay looks pretty tidy. However, a closer inspection raises some concerns. There is plenty of evidence that somebody has “made merry” in this engine bay with the rattle-cans, and some of the work is pretty sloppy. The culprit has painted the alternator bracket without cleaning it first, and there is also evidence of blue overspray in other areas. If I were seriously considering making an offer, an in-person inspection would be a priority. I would also like to know why they saw fit to perform this work rather than leaving things untouched to retain the unmolested survivor status. Unfortunately, the seller doesn’t indicate how well this classic runs or drives, leaving potential buyers begging for more information.

The interior photos that the seller supplies are sadly lacking, but what we can piece together looks like it is in good condition. The Blue leather upholstery on the seats shows no evidence of wear, while the remaining upholstered surfaces, plastic, and carpet, also present nicely. We don’t get a complete overview of the dash, but once again, what we see shows no signs of problems. The owner is also light on specifics when it comes to the question of interior appointments. However, I believe that the buyer will receive power windows, power locks, air conditioning, cruise control, remote exterior mirrors, and an AM/FM radio/8-track player.

If this 1978 Cadillac Eldorado is all that the seller claims it to be, it is a pretty special car. Original survivors with a four-digit odometer reading don’t appear every day and those that do generate plenty of attention. The BIN price sits right at the top end of what potential buyers might expect to pay for a low-mileage survivor that is perfect. However, the panel inconsistency and the rattle-can work in the engine bay cause me to step back and draw breath. The owner seems to be approachable, so it is hoped that he will be willing to answer questions on these issues. As final food for thought, this is not the first time this Caddy has been listed for sale. I located a previous auction from September of 2020, and in that listing, the car was passed in at $13,000. Values on the’78 Eldorado have climbed by around 25% over the past year, but is that enough to justify the BIN price?