For Sale: 1976 Cadillac Eldorado in Saint Louis, Missouri

"Like the running board and rumble seat, the convertible is an item which history has passed by." So wrote Cadillac General Manager and General Motors VP Edward Kinnard in a press release issued April 21st, 1976. Earlier that year, GM's flagship marque announced the 1976 model year marked the end of production for the magnificent Cadillac Eldorado Convertible-which, in turn, was the end of the "American production convertible." With American Motors (AMC) cutting all drop-top production in 1968, Chrysler in 1971, and Ford following suit in 1973, GM's convertible portfolio had winnowed down to just a handful by 1975. By 1976, even the venerable Corvette was coupe-only, leaving the Eldorado as the American automotive industry's final convertible. There are several theories on what guided the gradual decline of the great American convertible-from anticipated federal roll-over regulations to an increase in urban smog-but Cadillac's contemporary take is the most widely accepted. According to the same 1976 press release, it was a combination of both the proliferation of affordable and effective air conditioning and the rapid expansion of the high-speed interstate system that ultimately tamped demand. So, with drop-top sales spiraling, the 1976 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible was to be the industry's open-air endling-and Cadillac made sure there was enough pomp, circumstance, and ceremony to capture national headlines. Demand for the 1976 Eldorado Convertible soared, with a flat 14,000 produced before production closed for good-a 56 percent increase over the previous model year. It wasn't enough. Dealers and brand execs were inundated with calls, letters, and memos pleading for an allocation at MSRP, as a majority of these rather special Eldos commanded a hefty markup as both collectors and flippers scrambled to secure what was sure to be a sure-fire collectible. Cadillac claims it would have built more, but it had completely emptied suppliers' stock of convertible top assemblies two years prior. "I can say without a doubt in my mind, if we had enough top mechanisms to build 20,000 convertibles, we could have sold every one," wrote Kinnard. Of course, history shows this was far from the final crop-top Caddy. Lee Iacocca's revitalization of Chrysler resuscitated the American convertible with the 1982 Chrysler LeBaron, inspiring Cadillac to return fire with the 1984 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible. Angry collectors went so far as to bring a class-action lawsuit against GM to recoup perceived diminished value on their "last call" 1976 Eldo. It was quickly dismissed in court, and the "last" Cadillac convertible went on to become a sought-after collector car nonetheless. This striking red-over-red supercruiser is a masterclass in preservation; a low-mileage example showing just 76 miles on the odometer and retaining seldom-seen touches like the trunklid safety decals, factory-applied rust prevention, and even the original window sticker affixed to the rear quarter window. The Firethorn Metallic paint is in very good order, and presents well with just some minor time- and storage-related imperfections noted in the finish. The panel fitment and condition are consistent all around, and even the body-colored urethane bumper fillers are in factory-original condition. The extensive chrome trim is bright and attractive all around, as are the glossy black-painted wheel covers. The interior is simply pristine, with pillowy upholstery and wood-effect veneer surfacing remain in remarkable condition, with the evocative "Antique Dark Firethorn" leather and matching interior trim unmarred and appearing as though it just floated from the showroom floor. And, this being a classic Cadillac, creature comfort is king; cruise control, automatic bi-zone climate control, AM/FM Stereo 8-Track player, auto on/off and auto-dimming headlights make this one of the better long-distance cruisers-that is, if you can stand adding miles to the odometer. Everything that could be "powered," is, including the soft top, mirrors, locks, and six-way adjustable seats. A massive 500ci (8.2-liter) V-8 drives the Eldo's front wheels through a Turbo-Hydramatic 425 three-speed automatic transmission. 1976 was the end-of-the-line for the short-lived Caddy 500, and until 1975, the massive V8 was exclusive to the Eldorado. Like the rest of the car, everything under-hood is completely original and aside from some expected and easily reversible surface corrosion from storage, is in excellent condition. The heart of this particular Eldo wears the rare optional Bendix electronic fuel-injection system, boosting output to 215 hp and a thick 400 lb-ft; it is generally accepted that only around 1,000 Eldorado Convertibles left the factory with the "fuelie" option. This presents a rare opportunity to experience one of General Motors' flagship products of the 20th century without the stress of restoration, appealing to both the devout Cadillac collector and casual enthusiast alike. In its current state, this Eldorado Convertible is perfect for local- and national-level shows, especially for the popular preservation classes. And, if you're brave enough to put some miles under those whitewalls, this is the perfect summer cruiser. Offers welcome and trades considered For additional details please view this listing directly on our website https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7550-1976-cadillac-eldorado-convertible/