1966 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado

This was the finale for the rear-wheel drive Eldorado

“Standard of the World” in motoring pleasure is the 1966 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado. From 1965 until 1973 the Eldorado was a part of the Fleetwood series. The most distinguished name in motor cars was Cadillac. Every Fleetwood model is truly a masterpiece. It’s open air motoring at its finest. The 1966 model year was the finale for the rear-wheel drive Eldorado. The Fleetwood Eldorado convertible offers luxury and elegance with a youthful flair.

The visual beauty of the Fleetwood Eldorado is more than matched by its spirited performance. Its handling ease, smooth operation, and all around responsiveness are unsurpassed. The power is complimentary of the proven Cadillac 429 CID 16-valve OHV V8 engine. It’s equipped with a Carter 4-bbl carburetor. The engine cranks 340 hp @ 4,400 rpm with 606 Nm of peak torque @ 2,800 rpm. It is a swift convertible for nearly 5,000 pounds. Longitudinal acceleration is rated as 0-60 mph in 9.2 seconds, 0-100 mph in 27.7 seconds, with a top speed in the 119 mph range. It can do the ¼ mile @ 83 mph in 16.7 seconds.

The engine is mated to GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic THM 400 3-speed automatic transmission. The box perimeter frame construction allows the engine to be placed in a more forward position by six inches for the transmission hump in the interior to be lower increasing legroom. The Fleetwood Eldorado rides upon a long 129.5” wheelbase, has the luxury length of 224″ and is 80” wide. Automatic Level Control keeps the vehicle poised at all speeds is standard on all Fleetwood models.

Standard comfort and convenience features includes; power windows, power seats, power steering and brakes, leather interior with perforated seat cushions, fully automatic power folding fabric roof, and five whitewall tires. Bucket seats were optional at no extra cost for the Eldorado. Seven interior trim color combinations were available. Handsome new genuine walnut wood trim is resin impregnated to resist wear, moisture, and sun light. The 1966 Fleetwood Eldorado had a base price of $6,631.

The 1966 Fleetwood Eldorado is the last rear-wheel drive Eldorado. From its introduction in 1953, the Eldorado augmented the Cadillac model line-up annually. The number of exclusive appointments and personal conveniences made the 1966 model the most luxurious of all time.

Its generous proportions and spirited performance makes this grand tourer most attractive for the owner that demands sporting luxury. This is an affordable classic destined to appreciate favorably in value. Parts and service are still readily available. The 1966 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado is also the “Standard of the World” in glamour and excitement.

Will there ever be another “Cadillac of Cadillacs?”

Special thanks to Matt Garrett/GM Classics