The 1967 Cadillac Eldorado marked a turning-point in the evolution of Cadillac's luxury coupe, for this was the first of the line to have front wheel drive. The basic hardware had made its debut a year ealier on the Oldsmobile Toronado, but Cadillac added a 429 cubic-inch 340bhp V8 and a body which was crisply styled. Much to the surprise of many commentators, the new Eldorados also handled well on twisty roads. These first generation front wheel drive models lasted for three seasons with only cosmetic changes, but in their fourth and final season came a new 500 c.i. V8 with 400bhp, the largest production passenger car engine in the world at that time. With the second generation cars for 1971 came a longer wheelbase, a new perimeter frame with coil spring rear suspension, more rounded styling and heavy safety bumpers. Tightening safety and emissions regulations were the major influences on changes to this design over the next few years. By 1975, the 500 cubic-inch V8 was rated at only 190bhp (nett), and the convertible which had arrived with the 1971 models finally bowed out at the end of 1976. For 1977 and 1978, the Eldorados resisted the general downsizing trend at Cadillac, but for 1979 a new and radically smaller model took over the name. The Eldorados of this period are highly regarded among enthusiasts and collectors today, both for their engineering and for the fact that they represent the last of the really big Cadillacs. Anyone who has an interest in these cars will find the present Performance Portfolio compulsive reading. Models covered: Coupe, V8, Fleetwood, 429, 472, 500, Convertible & Casa De Eldorado. 140 pages, 250 illus. SB.

 

Publisher: Brooklands Books

Status: Out of Print (No Stock)

Number of pages: 140

Black & white images: 250

Binding: SBD

Language: English

Origin: HKG