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Comstock Mode: 1976 Cadillac Eldorado

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Lately, I’ve been keeping my eyes open for a fairly rare car: a first-generation Lexus IS300 Sportcross. It’s basically a wagon version of their popular sedan, but they imported far fewer of the wagon than the mass-produced 4-door. I wonder if anyone shares the same interest in old-school Cadillac Eldorados, as this hatchback-converted ’76 Cadillac Comstock that popped up here on craigslist this week seems like the vintage Cadillac equivalent of the Sportcross.

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In the top photo, you can see the barn-fresh find in its current form; here, we have an example of what it would look like once restored. A company by the name of Formal Coach Conversion did the hard part of taking an Eldorado and converting it into shooting brake form. From what I can see, it appears fairly elegant in nature. There are some wagon-conversions of sedans that look jarringly amateurish, but this at least appears like it could have been designed by the factory.

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The best part about an oddball like this is that it’s still a Cadillac underneath. It still has a luxurious, comfortable interior and V8 power under the hood. Not much is said about how much this car needs mechanically, but the interior appears largely decent for what was likely a long-idled project. The motor is reportedly knock-free but the seller notes some of the conversion bodywork will need professional repair.

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I personally love this converted Cadillac. Proportionally, it look just right and would be a wicked road trip vehicle. Depending on the extent of the corrosion, $2,200 seems like a bargain price for such an unusual project – but who knows what ugliness resides beneath the painted surfaces. How difficult do you think it would be to restore this Comstock to greatness?  Thanks to Barn Finds reader Ed B. for the find!

Comments

  1. Avatar That Guy

    I’m with you on the Lexus. Those are really handsome cars, and I’ve toyed with the idea of looking for one also.

    This is a pretty obscure reference, but a 2004 British TV movie called “Fallen” starring Jonathan Cake featured a Sportcross. I saw it on PBS at that time, but I don’t know if it’s available on video anywhere. It was a pretty good story actually.

    Re this Cadillac, it’s well-proportioned and looks better than many such conversions. I hope someone steps up and saves it. That won’t be me, but it’s a cool find.

    Like 0
    • Avatar Jeff Staff

      I have seen a fair amount of internet chatter about the first-gen IS as of late. I think it’s because it’s a decent alternative to the same-gen 3-Series with a bulletproof engine and Lexus/Toyota reliability. That and the price has come down significantly to “bargain” status.

      Like 0
  2. Avatar George

    This would be fun to play with. Alas timing is always the issue…

    Like 0
  3. Avatar George

    I don’t have a borzoi to drive around, but the whippets would like it.

    Like 0
  4. Avatar Mike R

    Looks like it has Toronado wheels – is that a front drive conversion too?

    And I wouldn’t worry what ugliness resides beneath the painted surfaces… :)

    Like 0
  5. Avatar 64 bonneville

    The 1976 Eldorado were front wheel drive, sharing the same platform as the Toronado.

    Like 1
  6. Avatar Vince Habel

    I think it could be a good deal after seeing it in person.

    Like 0
  7. Avatar joeinthousandoaks

    I’ll bet that tow truck could tell some stories. This is a nice design but looks like the tin worms may have gotten the best of it.

    Like 0
  8. Avatar Mike D

    the rust looks like it will be problematic , why would anyone allow an obviously custom made car go to shit like that? Hope someone brings it back

    Like 0
  9. Avatar Barry T

    By golly, I actually like the looks of this.

    Like 0
  10. Avatar don

    sorry all! I just can’t do it! it’s just ugly!

    Like 0
  11. Avatar Tundra/BMW Guy

    OK, look at it in this perspective:
    Cadi conv with a perfectly honest seller.
    1960 Porsche 356 Cabriolet with a decidedly mental seller and soon to be a justifiably certifiably mental buyer.
    Cadi looks like a gem to me!!!!
    (don’t get me wrong, I don’t have any wants, needs, nor desires to own it, just saying)

    Like 0
  12. Avatar Jeff Myers

    The longroof & hatchback seem to work OK.
    Those Eldos were a bit ungainly anyway, so it all flows.
    Tho’ not elegant, not bad for a malise-era car…the lowpoint of US style.

    Only 3100 Lexus Sportcross wagons were sold in USA.
    Might also consider a Cadillac CTS Sportwagon.
    8600 were built…then discontinued due to SUV-mindset of buyers.
    With stealth fighter styling, it draws a lot of interest.
    Comfy, quick, great MPG, and handles well for a land yacht.

    Like 0
  13. Avatar Alex P

    Wow, that’s pretty cool! I’ve never seen one of those. Wagons are the best!

    Like 0
  14. Avatar Darcelle

    If Anyone Knows Where it is, I’m interested in buying. 216-246-6200

    Like 0

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