Lot 283 - 1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado ‘Bicentenial’

• Only 200 Bicentenial versions made
• Two previous owners in the UK

There were many requests for the actual last convertible to be built. Cadillac had already determined that it would keep the actual last car for its historical collection, so the decision was made to create a trim package of identical last convertibles. Since Cadillac didn't want to appear to be taking advantage of this situation, the package they created was named the Eldorado Bicentennial Convertible, in recognition of that year's most significant date. The base price on a 1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible was $11,049, and the Last Convertible Replica Decor Package was a mere $85! Only 200 would be built, and of those only 199 would be for sale to the public. Production of the replica cars began late in the model run, after all of the 'standard' convertibles had been built. Assembly of the actual last car was delayed slightly for some unknown reason. There doesn't appear to be any particular significance to the April 21st date, it is uncertain why the actual last car was built on that particular date. One accounting is that a critical convertible top part was either damaged or lost, and a replacement had to be obtained in order to finish the last car. We haven't verified that, so it's only hearsay at this point. However, it would explain why the last few replica cars were built almost a week prior to the last one coming off the line. Cadillac needed that extra time.

The Bicentennial Edition cars are based on regular production models, and differ only in a few details. In fact, any car ordered in all-white could almost be made to look like one of the last replica cars. The paint finish was Cotillion White, a colour used for many years on Cadillacs. The convertible top is also white as is the Sierra Grain Leather interior. The Dark Firethorn carpeting, instrument panel, steering column, steering wheel, and seat belts are typical of interior trim code 072. The accent stripes on a car with this colour combination would likely be red but the replica car interiors differ from other production models with the use of Dark Firethorn Seaming Laces; also known as piping.

This fabulous example is presented in the correct Cotillion white with a matching white hood and white interior and red piping. It is powered by the smooth, lazy but powerful 8.2 litre V8 which is great for cruising. As there were only 200 of these cars ever built; confirmed by a plaque on the dashboard, it makes this car extremely rare as the present owner believes that only two exist in the UK. It has been cherished since the owner purchased it in 2009, he being only the third owner since coming over from the United States. This must be the ultimate car to pose in and enjoy particularly in the summer months with the hood down – emulating Boss Hogg from the Dukes of Hazzard perhaps!