Cadillac Eldorado IX (E-body) gallery (1971–1978)

The ninth-generation Cadillac Eldorado (1971–1978) expanded in size, re-introduced a convertible body style, and featured a massive 8.2-liter V8 engine.

All photos 26 I 1 1953–1953 II 3 1954–1956 III 5 1957–1958 IV 9 1959–1960 V 0 1961–1962 VI 0 1963–1964 VII 0 1965–1966 VIII (E-body) 1 1967–1970 IX (E-body) 5 1971–1978 X (E-body) 0 1979–1985 XI (E-body) 0 1986–1991 XII (E-body) 0 1992–2002

1024 x 768 122 1976

1024 x 681 80 Eldorado 1976

1024 x 681 73 Eldorado 1976

1024 x 681 69 Eldorado 1976

1024 x 681 65 Eldorado 1976

The ninth-generation Cadillac Eldorado was manufactured from 1971 through 1978 on a lengthened front-wheel-drive E-body architecture. Alongside the hardtop coupe, the open convertible returned and was famously promoted in 1976 as 'the last American convertible'. Visual updates introduced mandatory 5-mph energy-absorbing bumpers for 1973 and dual rectangular headlamps for 1975. The luxurious Custom Biarritz trim package introduced in 1976 featured pillow-style leather seating, plush carpeting, and a padded vinyl rear roof treatment that defined period American luxury styling.

Under the hood sat GM's giant 500 cubic-inch (8.2-liter) V8 engine, which saw net ratings adjusted from 365 gross hp in 1971 down to 190–235 net hp due to federal emissions controls. For 1977, displacement was reduced to 425 cubic inches (7.0 liters) producing 180 horsepower, paired with a TH425 3-speed automatic transaxle. Four-wheel disc brakes became standard in 1976, alongside optional early driver and passenger airbag restraint systems. Standard and available equipment included power steering, power drum brakes, power window controls, power seat adjustment, and premium interior upholstery appointments. Standard and available equipment included power steering, power drum brakes, power window controls, power seat adjustment, and premium interior upholstery appointments.