Vehicle Description
Hard to believe that massive cars like this 1976 Cadillac DeVille
were once commonplace on America's highways. If you remember taking
road trips in huge sedans like this, then you'll know that nothing
rides better than a '70s luxo-barge, and this single-owner Cadillac
is ideal for shows, touring, and having fun with the last of the
big ones.
The color is called Phoenician Ivory, one of those timeless colors
that gives the car undeniable presence. So many of these received
dated '70s color combinations (there were a lot of browns on the
menu), but this one, still wearing factory enamel, looks elegant
and sophisticated, which is perfect for a high-end luxury car. One
glance down the flanks and you can see that this has always been a
nicely-maintained car and there's no evidence of major rust or
repairs in its past. All four doors fit well and close tightly to
create a hushed passenger compartment that's tough to explain
without experiencing it. The hood is about an acre of sheetmetal
that still fits well, and while these cars are notorious for
crumbling bumper fillers, those on this one are in exemplary
condition. A contrasting tan padded roof appears to be
original-issue and in good overall condition with only a single
small hole on the passenger's side and definitely no signs of
trouble underneath. In addition, all the chrome and stainless trim
is bright, shiny, and clear, and even the rubber bumper guards show
no parking lot dings or other issues. Someone clearly loved this
car.
Inside, the matching tan leather interior has a warm, inviting look
that's very upscale and not '70s hokey. Leather was unusual in a
closed car, with most sedans getting cloth, so this is a rather
rare find. The upholstery appears to be completely original and in
outstanding condition, with acres of leather hides and enough
legroom in back to qualify for limousine status today. With warm
faux wood accents on the door panels and dash, the interior has the
ambience of a library, and the hushed silence as it whispers down
the road is entirely appropriate. Only the driver's seat shows the
most minor wear, but after nearly 40 years, it really is quite
remarkable. It's also loaded with options, including automatic
climate control (A/C is new and ice cold), cruise control, power
seat, windows, and locks, plus an AM/FM stereo radio with power
antenna. Stretch out because there's plenty of room fore and aft,
and with that massive trunk (beautifully upholstered in original
materials) you can practically take everything you own with
you.
1976 was the final year for Cadillac's massive and effortless 500
cubic inch V8. While not designed for all-out horsepower, it is
renowned for torque output and moves the big sedan with the kind of
fluid ease that's normally reserved for bullet trains. It gathers
momentum almost imperceptibly but you'll suddenly find yourself
whisking along at 80 MPH without even noticing. The engine bay is
pretty original with all the original equipment intact and there's
lots of new stuff, so don't let the somewhat crusty air cleaner
turn you off. It's backed by a TH400 3-speed automatic and a
heavy-duty rear end with 2.73 gears inside, so it just loafs along
on the highway. Obviously it's been out of the elements, because
clean undercarriages like this just don't exist anywhere but in
warm climates, and the big 235/75/15 whitewall radials provide that
amazing magic carpet ride.
For fans of heavy luxury cars, it's hard to compare to the biggest
and best of the '70s like this DeVille. Call today!