It is iconic. Not only does it represent American automotive philosophy at its peak. Generation 9 was also to be the last American convertible for many years from GM.
Cadillac Eldorado Convertible
New US safety requirements put an end to US-made convertibles. Officially, GM claimed that production was no longer profitable. Those who still wanted to drive a soft-top had to either choose expensive foreign cars – such as the Mercedes-Benz SL – or keep the Cadillac. Many chose the latter. It may have contributed to the fact that so many of the cars still exist.
Another reason why the cars have survived is that they belonged to the last generation of full-size Eldorado - built according to the principle "bigger is better". Subsequent models were scaled down. Sensible, seen in today's eyes. Although the Cadillac Eldorado Convertible is almost 5,7 meters long and weighs 2,5 tonnes, it does not offer more interior space than a normal, intimate 2-door car. And even on quiet country roads, it smoothly drinks 2 liters of leaded super petrol per mile.
But it has something that today's cars don't.
The Cadillac feeling
We met Tov Westby at Skjerdingen Høyfjellshotell which lies between Atna and Ringebu. The Cadillac was parked in the shade outside the hotel. Long and wide - low and surprising bibs - even with the canopy up. We lowered the canopy to head west along the beautiful Friisvegen. The soft leather seats are soft to the touch and hug the body in a comfortable way. You sit very much "in" the seats - not "on".
In a few days, Friisvegen will get new asphalt east of Skjerdingen. This stretch of road is currently full of potholes and bumps. We noticed them well when we arrived in our Tesla Model 3. In the Cadillac, on the other hand, we didn't notice anything about the unevenness. Nor did we hear any rattling and banging from the undercarriage. Deep in the white leather seats, it literally felt like floating on a white cloud. An incredible comfort considering that the car is actually about 44 years old.
Making a statement
Tov steered the Cadillac safely along the mountain road. Where it was narrow, he politely stopped to make way for oncoming camper van tourists. On a mountain trip in an open Cadillac, you are met with smiles and happy greetings. A Cadillac convertible has always been a symbol of wealth and individualism. A car for those who have come a long way. There are lists of super celebrities who have owned Cadillacs, but no one seems to have owned a late Eldorado Convertible. It is said that Elvis Presley gave away over 200 Cadillacs to people who meant something to him. Among these are also a couple of Eldorados (hardtops). He is said to have bought a 1974 model to give to his karate teacher at the time.
With the canopy down
Driving an open Cadillac can be compared to being out on a boat. There is, of course, quite a bit of wind, but the voices between the back seat and the front seat still carried surprisingly well. We could carry on conversations in a normal voice. In the front seats behind the "wind screen" there was no intrusive wind, but in the back seat where my wife sat, it was more windy - just like in a boat. Perhaps a reason why many people wear caps and hoods when driving with the canopy down? The big V8 was clearly audible when the throttle was applied, but the muffled hum was only a pleasure for the ears. The enormous torque in the eight rarely creates a need to step hard on the gas.
Visual upgrades
Tov's Cadillac is not entirely original in appearance. According to the VIN number, the car is a Convertible with a 500 engine, produced as a 1974 model. But the front probably originates from a newer model, probably a 1978 Cadillac Eldorado (with fixed roof). GM changed the front of its models almost every year. The 1974 model had a different pattern in the grille, different headlights and turn signals that folded around the sides. The rear light arrangement may also originate from a newer model. At the risk of being branded a squeamish nostalgic, I would like to add that the upgrades suit the car very well and make it a very special specimen.
Luxury in 1974
In 1974, the Cadillac Eldorado Convertible was one of the most expensive and luxurious cars on the market. None of the cars with Norwegian plates were bought new in Norway. If so, they would probably have to be special ordered, if at all possible. As mentioned, the luxury lay in the Cadillac feeling. The 1974 model also got a new dashboard which is slightly curved. The upper part has an "information band" where all the warning lights are gathered. Power antenna and radio were standard equipment. Likewise, central locking, power steering with variable steering ratio and illuminated ashtrays. Already in the 50s - long before computer electronics - Cadillac developed solutions such as automatic dimming of the main lights, seat adjustment with memory and cruise control.
Tov demonstrated the solution for the remote-controlled trunk opener. There is a yellow button that comes into view when you open the glove compartment. The lock opens and closes with the help of an electric motor - which sounds quite clearly. The same solution could just as well have been in a 50s Cadillac. Everything you put on in the car seems solid. Handles and switches are made of metal. The doors open and close with loud metallic sounds of "clunk and clang". This is part of the charm of American cars - in contrast to today's cars with extensive use of plastic and cardboard.
Lunch at Skjerdingen
We went back to Skjerdingen Høyfjellshotell to eat lunch. It was nice to sit outside with a view over the mountain home. Lightly smoked mountain trout with sour cream and cucumber salad can certainly be recommended. If you take a small detour up Friisvegen between Atna and Ringebu, it is not impossible that you will see the red Cadillac parked outside. The owner is associated with the hotel and the Cadillac can be used for special occasions, preferably accompanied by Champagne.
"Never too early for Champagne?"
Facts 1974 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible
Weights and Measures
Length, width, height: 569 / 203 / 137 cm
Wheelbase: 328 cm
Net weight: 2385 kg (without driver)
Number of seats: 5
Drivetrain
Engine: 500 V8 OHV 8,2 liter longitudinal front mounted
Power: 214 HP at 3800 revs
Torque: 515 Nm at 2000 revolutions
Gearbox: 3-speed automatic Turbo Hydra-Matic
Front wheel drive.
Undercarriage
Front suspension: Torsion strut.
Rear suspension: 4-link wishbones with coil springs. Air-filled shock absorbers with automatic rear height adjustment. New for the 1974 model was a (new) rear stabilizer bar.
2 circuit brake system.
Front brakes: Ventilated discs
Rear brakes: Drums
Performances
Top speed: 193 km/h
About the car
Place of manufacture: Detroit, USA*
Owner: Tov Westby
Model: 1974*
Source: *Checked against the car's VIN number
Pictures
See
