Practically Classics Forum

Dear all,
I know it's tasteless,tacky and P.I.M.P but I've seen a Cadillac Eldorado Biaritz coupe that I'm interested in for sale,and I rather like the look of it
Trouble is that I know next to nothing about these cars,and google hasn't offered up much info for me,so what are the prime areas to look out for?
And if anyone can provide any decent links that would be appreciated too,thanks.

If you own a chain of petrol filling stations - Go for it, if you don't - leave it alone - but now seriously - find out how long it's been in the UK (I take it, it is ex States) - ensure all duties are paid on it from import, they are a huge bus - providing you have the space and can afford the 10 MPG (maybe a bit more ?) but hey I only get 15 - 17 MPG from my Rover - If the mileage is huge - leave it alone - take into consideration that there is not that many that stock parts for these in Europe - but I always found Rodley Motors at Bradford very helpfull - Good Luck

I can't help on the specifics I'm afraid, but have you tried contacting these guys? http://www.classicamericanautoclub.co.uk/

They were at the NEC last year and had lots of Cadillacs and other Yankmobiles, I'm sure they'll have someone who can give you a few pointers.

Amy.

Mechanical parts should be easily available and very cheap. Check out sites like national parts depot and rock autos.

All the best

Al

I own three US classics albeit rather older. Everyday parts supply for US vehicles is good, especially for popular cars and remember they are masters of badge engineering so parts are often shared across a huge range of (GM in this case) vehicles.

I would encourage you to give the guys at US Automotive a call. They have been absolutely brilliant on parts supply, and they often have parts in stock. They also have a guy there who writes a regular column in a well known magazine offering help on people's US car problems. They can (and maybe will) tell you what they get asked about a lot on Caddys of this age.

As for what to look for - rust! It can be well disguised but it's a killer on this kind of age car because the cost of putting it right is way more than the value of the car. Also any trim, electrical or aircon gremlins can be expensive, so check it all works.

Other than that, usual stuff for any car - these things are understressed V8s and will cover huge milages if looked after, but will swallow money like crazy if not, especially if you are trying to rely on them for everyday use.

As for all the gags about fuel consumption - I get those too, maybe you've done some sums - I have. Let's keep it a little secret, because although it actually is "ouch" when you see the cost of a tank of fuel, taking all things into account, especially the comfort and refinement, these can be really really good value.

Thanks John,much appreciated.
Went to see this beastie on Saturday,it's a good 10 foot car,i.e looks grand from 10 feet away,close up it's not perfect ,white hides a multitude of sins but it's purely little bits of cosmetic stuff,as underneath it is unwelded and very solid,drives well too.

Made him an offer and pick it up this Saturday

Madness!!

Are you going to name it "Ol'Breaky II"?

Don't,I'm jittery enough as it is

Gotta give these things a try though,only live once.

You gonna take it to Luton?
If you are lets make it a convoy; whos car will break down first?