Highlights
- Attractive soft-top De Ville with plenty of period features
- In current ownership since 2006
- Previously based in California
- Subject to extensive work in 2018
The Appeal
Introduced in 1965, the 3rd generation of the De Ville continued the iconic V8-powered landliner. Ever-brash and unapologetically American, this was a particularly glamorous model - one that, for a spell, was ubiquitous with the image of American motoring.
Thanks to handsome trims, a variety of body styles and the enduring popularity of their whopping V8s, it’s little wonder that they’ve become highly prized pieces of retro-age Americana - and, of course, a perfect car for a themed wedding.
This example has been a wedding hire for exactly that purpose, and comes to us in a fine level of fettle, with solid floors and a history of dry storage under its belt.
The History and Paperwork
- Built in 1966 in Detroit
- Originally based in California
- In 1991 the car arrived in France
- It’s been in its current ownership since 2006
- Throughout the current ownership it’s only been used for hire
- Repainted circa 20 years ago into its current white livery
- The car currently indicates 38,384 miles
- This is on a five-figure odometer and can’t be verified as an authentic mileage
- Last control technique was carried out in September 2022 so is due for expiry
- The paperwork file includes:
- Certificat d’immatriculation
- Substantial invoice for service, brake and clutch rebuilt from April 2018
The Interior
- Impressive blue leather interior
- Plenty of chrome throughout
- Highly original with some age-commensurate patina
- Seats are free of rips and tears though do carry some light cracking and sag
- Central arm rest has some fairly clear cracking in particular
- We can spot some cracking to the seatbelt holder on the passenger side
- Seat mounts have some surface corrosion, as expected for a car of this age
- Dashboard carries some patina throughout, particularly to the chromework
- There are a few cracks here and there to dash, though not overly severe
- Original horizontal instrument binnacle
- The original stereo is still in situ though
- All instruments are clean and easy to read
- Original Cadillac steering wheel looks a little careworn
- Electric windows are in good order
- Electric seats are in need of some attention - the motor is running but not correctly engaging
- All switches, buttons and instruments are reportedly in good working order
- Carpets are in good order with light age-commensurate wear
- Boot is clean however the lid requires some work - with parts supplied
With a soft level of patina throughout, this Cadillac is showing signs of its venerable years - though they’re rather light for a car that’s nearing its 60th. Everything is in good working order, with the gentle wear to the chrome and leatherwork being of little detraction to the car’s charming retro styling.
The blue leather contrasts beautifully with the car when the top’s down and is a perfect environment for slow cruising on the open road - with just the right fusion of sporting style, 60s patina and day-to-day comforts.
The Exterior
- Stylish, boxy bodywork by Bill Mitchell
- White paintwork, which the vendor informs us was applied some 20 years ago
- Paint is showing some light signs of age, particularly around the arches and sills
- Some cracks on the left wing
- Chromework has some age-commensurate patina but is still bright and nicely contrasting
- Glasswork and lenses are in good order with no chips or cracks
- All branding is present and correct
- Some light fogging and wear to the far sides of the grille
- Complete with a new white soft top, which is excellent order and works well
- The car is sat on its original Cadillac branded wheelset
- Shod in a full set of Michelin tyres
- Underneath, the car shows some surface corrosion - but we can't discern anything more severe
With its long-nosed, boxy aesthetics and lashings of chrome, the Cadillac De Ville is simply iconic. This example is very well-kept overall, with white paintwork, a matching soft top and the ever-iconic Cadillac branding.
Sat on its original wheelset, and requiring only a little bit of work to get it to top-notch order, this Cadillac is a fine example of an iconic American motor.
The Mechanics
- Powered by the desirable Cadillac Big-Block 472ci V8 engine - the largest fitted to this generation
- 3-speed TH-400 automatic transmission
- Engine bay appears in good order with no significant faults
- In 2018 the car underwent:
- Brake overhaul including cylinders, boosters, hoses and shoes
- New exhaust system including manifold
- New oil and filters throughout
- The car is reportedly starting on a quarter turn with zero fuss
- The vendor informs us there are no leaks, knocks, smoke or bangs from the car’s engine bay
- The Controle Technique is set to expire but the vendor knows of no reason this should be an issue
- The car comes complete with new parts for the boot’s manual opening, which needs repair
Soundtracked by the charismatic, burbling Cadillac Big-Block V8, this De Ville sounds as great as it looks. Thankfully, its performance is nothing to be sniffed at either, and this particular example has been kept in great condition.
The vendor informs us that the car is running exactly as expected, with no banks, leaks, knocks or smoke - and that it’s starting first time with no issues. As a result, it appears to be ready and waiting to hit the road with a new owner.
Summary
With so much period interior intact and a desirable spec, this Cabriolet is ready and waiting to hit the road - it’s an eminently usable example that’s got plenty of character.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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