One of the attractions of buying a classic with a known ownership history is that many of the seller’s claims about the vehicle are generally verifiable. That ability is heightened if it is a one-owner survivor, which is true with this 1969 Cadillac Eldorado. Its presentation is impressive, and it is in excellent mechanical health. The odometer reading of 47,000 genuine miles could be the icing on the cake. The seller has listed the classy Caddy here on eBay in Lakewood, Washington. Bidding sits below the reserve at $16,260, but there is a BIN option of $25,000 for those wishing to bypass the auction process.
This Eldorado is a genuine survivor that retains 100% of its original steel. The seller admits its Cordovan paint has some marks and chips, but its general condition is impressive for a vehicle of this age. Brown paint is not the first choice for some enthusiasts, but you must examine this shade closely to appreciate its appeal. The Metallic mix of Brown and Gold is incredible, and this car would undoubtedly show at its best on a sunny day. The Tan vinyl top offers a nice contrast, while the laser-straight panels and underside are free from penetrating rust. The seller describes the chrome and trim as flawless, and I can’t spot any significant problems with the tinted glass.
I greatly admire low-capacity four-cylinder powerplants, especially twin-cam units that seem to come alive when they hit the upper rev range. However, it is hard to resist the effortless performance of a large V8 like the one occupying this Eldorado’s engine bay. This 472ci monster produces 375hp and 525 ft/lbs of torque, which is almost enough to rotate the planet on its access. The urge feeds through a three-speed automatic transmission, with power assistance for the steering and brakes an integral part of the mechanical package. Cadillac buyers from this era were generally more concerned about effortless driving than outright performance, but they received the best of both worlds with this 4,729 lb survivor. It should cruise all day at freeway speed but can return a 15.7-second ¼-mile ET if the driver wishes to compete in a “Traffic Light Grand Prix.” That is hardly muscle car territory, but it is impressive for a car of this type and weight. The seller claims this Caddy has a genuine 47,000 miles on the clock, but they don’t mention verifying evidence. Its ownership history may mean it is available, which is a question worth asking. The car recently received new tires, with the seller indicating it drives as well today as it would have when it left the showroom. They supply this YouTube video of the car in action, and I can’t spot any problems.
The seller describes this Cadillac’s interior as flawless, and the supplied photos support the claim. There is no evidence of wear or abuse, and the seller confirms there are no odd smells. The sea of Brown cloth and vinyl might not appeal to all tastes, but it is highly practical. The winning bidder won’t need to spend a dime inside this classic, and anyone who inspects the car’s condition will be impressed to learn the interior is 100% original. Looking good is only part of the equation because everything functions as it should. The new owner receives climate-control air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, a tilt and reach wheel, the Light Sentinel, and a pushbutton AM radio.
Describing any unrestored classic with over five decades of use behind it as perfect is dangerous, and the seller avoids that phrase with this Cadillac Eldorado. However, it is an extremely tidy survivor with a low odometer reading that couldn’t help but receive praise wherever it goes. It has attracted forty-six bids, reflecting how it has struck a chord with potential buyers. The BIN is competitive in the current market for an Eldorado of this vintage and condition, leaving the possibility that if the bidding remains intense, someone could hit the button to guarantee they take it home. Do you think that will happen?
Beautiful ride and perfect motor 472 go with it. I was surprised to see single exhaust on it. I seen many with duals. This is a very quiet El Dorado. Also surprised just a AM radio. If you don’t care about gas mileage this is your ride. Classy and arrive in style! I guessing the reserve is going to be $20,000. Somebody to going to be driving in style! 😄🇺🇸🐻
I would say the color is Nutmeg Brown Firemist. Firemist colors were extra cost on Cadillacs of that era.
Wonder if the AC system still works and blows cold?
Doubt it
Does NOT have cruise.
Since cars of this era were designed to run on leaded gasoline, do you need to add lead to every tank?? What happens if it’s been running on unleaded for the last 40 years?? If I bought this I’d want to drive it
That’s why buying from the owner is best. You can get answers. However it doesn’t seem like the original owner is selling this, but rather a dealer. Then getting an honest or even knowledgeable answer is unlikely. Therefore a personal inspection is necessary.
The exposed-headlight Eldorados will always be a distant second to the hidden-headlight versions in my book.
I had one of these for about 10 minutes.
After watching the gas gauge quickly go down just sitting in the driveway, I gave it back.
It wasn’t built for fuel economy. What did you expect from a car like this?
I didn’t expect to actually see the gas gage go down while driving or even idling in the driveway.
My other Cadillacs didn’t do that, not even the 500 ci
Who would drive this enough miles to be concerned with fuel economy? It’s not most likely going to be a daily driver.
Someone must have used the buy it now on eBay as it’s now sold. I think the sellers are just flippers and do not think that they even had title in their names?
These land yachts such as Lincolns and Imperials all had 3 speed trannys, they were not designed to cruise for long over 100mph, or to turn 1/4 mile times less than 15 seconds, but had enough torque to jerk you back in your seat over 70mph. The front room couch ride could put you to sleep on long runs, that’s what they were born for.