This 1977 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz not only represents the last generation of the giant luxury coupes from Cadillac, but presents as a high-quality, extremely low-mileage land yacht that has been expertly maintained from the day it rolled out of the showroom, and beautifully restored to the tune of $30k to breathe some new life in it as well. Big luxury cars are usually treated like something special by their owners, but this car has received the kind of care usually... reserved for cars with an extra zero on their price tag. Cadillac sent the Eldo off in fine fashion in 1978, as in 1979 there would be an all-new smaller personal luxury coupe, and the Biarritz Classic (AKA "Collector's Edition") was the top-of-the-line. Buckskin Metallic paint manages to be both flashy and elegant at the same time and seems to emphasize the Eldorado's truly massive proportions. At nearly 20 feet long and 5000 pounds, this was full-sized American luxury on a scale unseen for the past 35 years. Beautifully repainted in the correct shade over laser-straight factory sheetmetal, and even the plastic fender extensions are in outstanding shape, as is all the brightwork and chrome that was redone at the same time in 2001 for over $30k worth of work. The Biarritz was highlighted by custom trim along the beltline and highlighting the dip just behind the doors. A padded opera roof was restored too, because unmarked and supple was another part of the Biarritz package, as are the relatively subtle "Biarritz" badges. The chrome is in excellent condition, as are the lenses, which have delicate Cadillac emblems etched into their surfaces. Man, this may be the nicest Caddy we've featured in years. Full-scale luxury was the order of the day inside, and with room for six, the big Eldorado is more like a living room on wheels. Pillow-tufted leather seats, including a split bench with power actuators for both driver and passenger, tie it together with the exterior, and the Buckskin Tan leather upholstery adds a layer of comfort and luxury that you have to experience to believe. Instruments, gauges, knobs, and handles all leave no question that this is a well-cared-for original car, with crisp markings on the gauges and beautifully sharp knobs featuring Cadillac wreaths on their faces. Creature comforts abound, from automatic climate control to power windows and locks to cruise control and an AM/FM stereo radio with factory 8-track (how cool is that?). And feel free to bring everything you can carry on road trips, since the trunk is massive and still carries its original spare tire and jack assembly. Amusingly, the 425 cubic inch V8 under the hood is the "smaller" engine used in the first-generation FWD Eldorados, but its true calling card is effortless torque. With nearly 5000 pounds to move around, it is a silent, obedient servant that starts easily and purrs along with nary a whisper. The engine bay is just about what you'd expect from a car that's always been loved and only has 21,540 miles on the clock, showing expert maintenance from day one. Cadillac Blue paint is a bright complement to the satin black engine bay, and all the belts, hoses, and other accessories are just as Cadillac made them in 1977. The transmission is a TH425 3-speed automatic, which is basically a TH400 sitting next to the engine and connected to the engine by a massive chain and driving a differential set just ahead of the oil pan. Power four-wheel discs, a quiet single exhaust with catalytic converter, and shockingly clean floors round out the chassis. Special Eldorado-only 15-inch wheels wear color-matched hubcaps and 235/75/15 whitewall radials to finish the awesome look. These big cars are gaining popularity, and if you're looking for an affordable investment-grade Eldo, pick this one up while it's still a bargain. Call today!
|