Some classic cars seem to have a natural environment, an almost spiritual home. For me, finding this 1971 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible listed for sale in Sherman Oaks, California, seems appropriate. That places it a stone’s throw from the streets of Los Angeles or cruising serenely along the shorefront of Santa Monica with the top down and the Pacific breeze wafting through the occupants’ hair. If the picture I’ve painted seems irresistible, you will find the Eldorado listed here on eBay. Bidding sits at $8,800 in a No Reserve auction.
The Eldorado had been an integral part of the Cadillac model lineup since 1953, and our feature car comes from the first year of Ninth Generation production. Almost every dimension had grown compared to its predecessor, which wasn’t exactly small anyway! The original owner ordered this gentle giant in Cotillion White, one of the more conservative shades in the company’s 1971 color palette. I would describe this car’s presentation as “honest.” The paint has a collection of minor imperfections, but none are severe enough to require immediate attention. However, the overall condition means the winning bidder may opt for preservation over restoration, protecting this car’s survivor status. The panels are straight, and a Californian lifestyle means this classic is rust-free. The power top frame and motor are present and work as they should. The top itself is missing, and the seller holds a quote of $1,200 for a replacement. The trim looks excellent for a vehicle of this vintage, and the tinted glass is crystal clear.
The supplied photos are disappointing because they don’t provide an interior overview. However, it is trimmed in a combination of Brown and White, which is in keeping with the period. The leather has the usual character wrinkles, and I can’t spot any issues with the upholstered surfaces, carpet, or dash pad. The seller says the air conditioning blows ice-cold, and the winning bidder receives power windows, power locks, an AM/FM radio, a remote driver’s mirror, and a tilt wheel.
If the interior photos are disappointing, the lack of engine shots is more so. Lifting the hood should reveal the 500ci V8, with the three-speed automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes making life behind the wheel effortless. The 4,872 lb Eldorado needed something special under the hood if progress was to be anything but glacial, and Cadillac delivered. That monster motor produces 365hp and 535 ft/lbs of torque. Although most buyers weren’t concerned about performance down the strip, this car’s ability to cover the ¼-mile in 17.1 seconds must be considered impressive. The seller recently installed new plugs, plug wires, and a battery. They say the car runs and drives perfectly and should offer its new owner years of luxury motoring pleasure.
Many people believe that Cadillac is a shadow of its former self and that its glory days are fast fading into a distant memory. That raises the question of when its glory days were, and opinions vary widely on that subject. Many will point to 1959 and the iconic cars featuring enormous tailfins and bullet taillights, which is a fair call. I think it is possible that the company experienced at least two high water marks and that this car emerged during the second. It was an era when emission regulations hadn’t taken a big bite out of engine performance, pre-dating the oil crisis and upcoming safety legislation. It was a more carefree era, and this Eldorado was very much of its time. It wouldn’t make a practical daily driver, but as a classic for some relaxed weekend fun where the stress of everyday life can be left behind, they don’t come much better than this. It has only attracted two bids, but are you tempted to submit the third?
Also missing the large steer horns.
I wonder if they built any ’70s eldos(espec convertibles) with crank windows & no a/c.
They did not. The last Cadillac without standard power windows (until the Cimarron) was the 1967 Calais.
White and brown upholstery is not listed as one of the standard offerings for the 1971 Eldorado. White upholstery was available with black, blue, or red trim, and the bolsters, buttons, headrests, and piping were all white. This car was either reupholstered with a bit of personalization, or it was a special-order car. Cadillac would do variations like this, for a price.
Would like to know what the story is on the salvage title, wrecked, stolen? That is an odd interior, but I would drive it!
Looks nice but why salvage title, and 1200 for a top is nowhere close
.
That price must be the “put the top on yourself” option. Definitely do not do that.
This reminds me of the similar looking car used in the great Peckinpah movie, “The Getaway”.
The front bumper is bent. Yes this car was likely hit and repaired. That said, it is a cool looking ride and would be fun to own at the right price.
The perfect way to get noticed cruising down Hollywood Blvd.
Didm’t Boss Hogg have one just like it?
I thought boss hog was buried in this caddy???
Looks like the Cadillac from Thunderbolt and Lightfoot movie.
This is truly a classic car, I’m not a huge convertible fan, but I do like this one. Beautiful car, might need a little “fixin up”
I wanna know who quoted the replacement top for $1200. My mustang was $2500 and was a way smaller top. Maybe that was for the vinyl and you had to install it yourself? I know California shops would be way more $$ than little ole Paducah Ky. shops. Lol. Cool interior even though it is not stock. I like it but just dont want it. Hope someone buys it and cruises till the tires fall off. HeeHaw.
Lots of floods last few years. I had a used carlot for 12 years and i had to watch for flood cars every time i looked at a car to buy. It would have a salvage title if it was a flood car. Just my 2 cents.
I have a mint condition Cadillac that ended up with a salvage title from just one slight dented front fender. Blame the insurance companies
Bought a ’62 Eldo convertible in 1973. When I called on it an elderly woman told me it had 26K miles on it. I almost hung up thinking I could never afford it but when I asked, she quoted me $800.00. It was metallic mint green with matching leather and top. Not a ding anywhere to be found. Funny thing was when she answered her door, there was a younger man Gigolo)? there and they both had s#lt-eating grins on their faces. Got the car home and while detailing it I found a “blunt, fatty, reefer, joint” etc. in the ashtray. Figured that explained the grins AND the asking price for the Eldo. TRUE STORY!!
Typical dirty leftist fable.
I’m not sure where your comment is coming from… That was an awesome car and wish I still had it (despite today’s gas prices). Leftist?? OUCH! Have a nice day…
I’m not sure new plugs and wires ensures years of driving delight.