1976 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible
General Motors announced late in 1975 that production of full-size factory convertibles would cease after the 1976 model year, triggering immediate speculation and a surge in demand.
Convertible Eldorado output jumped about 156 percent compared to the previous year, reaching an even 14,000 units as buyers rushed to acquire what was heavily promoted as “the last American convertible.”
The final 200 examples received special Bicentennial Edition designation with white paint and dual red-and-blue pinstriping commemorating the nation’s 200th anniversary.
Stretching about 224.1 inches in length on a 126.3-inch wheelbase, the front-wheel-drive Eldorado featured long-hood proportions that concealed its massive powerplant. The 500 CI (8.2 L) overhead-valve V-8 generated 190 HP at 3,600 rpm in standard carbureted form, with an optional fuel-injected version producing 215 HP.
Power was transmitted through a three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, paired with a robust integrated final drive similar in concept to the units used in the GMC Motorhome. Four-wheel disc brakes (added the previous year) provided stopping power for the roughly 5,100-pound automobile.
Styling revisions from 1975 proved minimal, with a new grille design and Cadillac script relocated to the hood face, plus revised taillamp lenses.
Production concluded with total 1976 Eldorado output reaching 49,192 units, split between 35,192 hardtop coupes and 14,000 convertibles.
The convertible concept returned in 1984 on a much smaller front-wheel-drive Eldorado, prompting unsuccessful litigation from some buyers who had purchased 1976 examples as investments based on the final-year convertible hype.
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