MY Dad had the '65 Deville, silver gray inside and out. Loved that car, esp. the POWER vent windows in the front doors.....also-you didn't need to have the car key turned on to operate the windows, there was a switch on drivers window controls that allowed the windows to be opened and closed without the key in ignition. Just a CLASSY car!!!!!!!!!!!
If I recall correctly, Cadillac had a deal where a person could trade their Cadillac in every year plus $500 and get a new one. I'm not sure on the $500 amount but I know there was an incentive like that. Cadillac has since lost the brand appeal and opulence it had in the past Century particularly the decade of these years.
Totally agree, I haven't been in a Cadillac showroom in decades - the way "Cadillacs" look now, you'd think you're in a BMW showroom - totally bland, "blend in" cars!@@mickeydogtubemickeydogtube6856
65 Pontiac entire line won Motor Trend car of the year. They were beautiful. Pontiac almost was cut in 55. However they gave Bunkie, 5 years to turn the division around. They were 8th. In 60 they moved to number 3 in sales. Bunkie, dad was president of GM in the 20s. So GM blood was in there family. He wanted a car, so Bunkies dad had a 28 Chevrolet in parts. Said put it together by end of summer. He did. My first car was a 76 Grand Le Man's. Beautiful car. Factory 8 track. Aircraft dashboard. GM sent Pontiac down the drain. Sad. Oldsmobile as well.
As a (regrettably) former owner of a 66 SdV, I can attest to the quality of the fit and finish. Well styled, interior and exterior. Very reliable drivetrain. Boy, even after 30 years, I still miss my Caddy!!!!
No one in my family ever had a Cadillac until I got one in 2014. My family was middle class so it was usually Pontiac or Buick for us. My Grandfather would be proud.
Had a blue baritz eldoado convert i had a lot of mechanical probs with it specially trans driveshaft valve seals. Always burned oil we used felpro was worse ordered original gm seals oil consumption stopped . terrible gas mileage but gas was 50c then 😵💫🥺🥶. Rebuilt trans lost holdback sprag clutch after warranty
Yes, we took a trade of a '66 Eldo cream-puff around 1970 or so. Pastel Baby-Blue /White Leather and White Canvas Roof. I drove it around for about a week before getting yelled at! It was the nicest convertible, AND head-turner I ever drove until an early nineties RR Corniche.
3:26 "...Bedizened with so much chrome..." I don't ever remember hearing that word in my 57 year old life, and I have some confidence in my vocabulary. But it is indeed a word, so I learned a new one today.
Same here--never heard that word before today. Apparently, it's similar to bedight (adorned) but implies more garishness and excess, which the '58 Buicks & Oldsmobiles certainly had in spades!
I absolutely loved the 1966. For some reason the 1965 never did it for me. My parents had good friends who drove used Cadillac’s. They bought a super clean 1966 Coupe de Ville in 1969 for $3,000 from a Cadillac dealer. What a beautiful car. It was maroon with a black vinyl top and saddle brown leather interior. I can’t imagine buying a 3 year old Cadillac today for $30,000!
It’s funny, my dad bought an emerald green 1966 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 in 1969 for $2,200….just couldn’t stretch for the Olds 98…on the same lot…that would have set him back $2,600…..
I had the luck of finding a slightly used '66 Coupe de Ville for about 3K back in the day. Silver exterior, Black vinyl roof, black dash and dark red damansk cloth interior trimmed in leather. What really got me interested in buying this one as it had every option available, which was nearly unheard of in 1966. Those were the days when many cars were ordered without air conditioning! Many a Calais went out of the show room without it. This '66 had Cruise, AND Auto-Level Control as well as the Guide-Matic/ Twilight-Sentinal system. T&T Wheel, AM-FM Signal Seeking Stereo, 6-way Seat (people used to order two-ways all the time back then!) Pwr. Locks , rear de-fog, etc. I could not let it get past me! I put around 50k miles on it before selling it on. Another one of those cars I had that I wish I coulda, wish I shoulda, had the foresight to keep!
My Uncle Joe and Aunt Wilma traded their '55 Buick Special in for a new '65 Cadillac Calais that was the same color blue as the convertible at the beginning of this video. Even though it was a "lowly" Calais it was loaded with all the options except a vinyl top and they were very pleased with it. When they were ready to trade in '72 they checked out a new Cadillac Calais and were shocked at how cheap the interior looked with all the hard black plastic on the dash compared to quality of their '65 and ended up getting a '72 Buick Electra Limited instead. On another note, my first thought when I saw that front end on the model at 11:46 was the '65 Lincoln Continental.
My Uncle bought a new 1965 Cadillac Coupe DeVille Convertible in Black with a red leather interior. It was a beautiful car. I remember it as a kid driving around town with the top down. First convertible I rode in.
@@andyj631 I really enjoy seeing the mock up clay and proposed design drawings especially for the era cars became my teenage obsession. The 60s to mid 70s. I even enjoy the 50s too. Like that 58 Buick. My parents had a 58 Caballero station wagon.
The 17:20 66 is mine, that I still own 👍🏻. You can access the bulbs easy, you need to remove the filler panel when the trunklid is open, and even with big hands you can change the bulbs 👍🏻. Found out after I removed the bumper twice! Own the car since 14 years now.
@@RareClassicCars no, it is between the bumper and the edge of the trunk opening where the seal is installed. From there it is very easy to access the upper bulb. The 2 lower ones are changeable from below.
My Dad always raved about the look of the '65-'66 Caddy's when I was a kid. He rightfully loved the clean lines of this era. I have to agree. A very clean, and elegant design.
Gramp's first Caddy was a '68 SDV. Dark green, black leather and top. 472 power, AC like an ice box, handled well for a big car too. I was 7, saw Grandma coming down the street, new from the dealer. It was so stunning, I couldn't contain myself. Story for another time. It replaced a white New Yorker that got stolen shortly after new....also stunning.
My Dad acquired a '68 Coupe de Ville, triple black with all-leather interior. Getting in the car, one was enveloped in the amazing aroma of the leather and the hushed quiet-- a quiet so profound that the ticking clock in the dash seemed loud. I was just 17 or 18 and amazingly was permitted to drive the Caddy occasionally. I certainly would not let that happen if it was my '68 de Ville, which, by the way was still much like the '65 and '66 models presented here, but with the 429 engine enlarged to a kick ass 472k! Awfully big car--you didn't drive it so much as "guide" it. Great memories.
The 472 was an all-new engine design, it wasn't an enlarged 429. It actually didn't have much of anything I common with the 429. Even the bellhousing pattern is different.
Such a cool memory. Love how you recalled the clock ticking being so quiet. Seems very ‘cadillac’ to not have an annoyingly loud clock ticking in that impressive interior
My first car in 1977 was a 66 coupe de ville white with black vinyl top and a tan interior. My parents bought it from an elderly family member in 72 who wanted a smaller car, with only 24k on the odometer. It was an outstanding car and started my love affair with Cadillacs. As a 17 year old I pounded that car every chance I got. By the time I drove it to the crusher it was running on 6 cylinders the radio and windows stopped working. I wish I knew then what I know now. Next up was a 64 coupe de ville all white. Last year for true fins. I chromed the engine dual hush thrush mufflers wire wheels. All things considered that car was a rocket ship for its size. Man I miss those cars!
In the early 70's there was a 65 or 66 that used to park on my street. I didn't realize it at the time, but it was a low-optioned Calais that didn't have power windows or locks. My 7- or 8-year-old self was shocked at such a "lowly" and pedestrian Cadillac that I immediately disliked these model years, preferring instead the 67-68. Over time I've come to have a greater appreciation for the 65-66, especially the 65. My opinion is that forced model-year changes did the 66 any favors, and that the 65 had the best tail lights, followed by the 69, then the 77. The forced styling changes take a fantastic taillight design and muff them up. 65-66 IMHO is peak Cadillac for the interiors, with very evident cost-cutting cheapening them from 67 onward. Whoever thought wood from plastic trees in a Cadillac was a good idea needs to go work for Chevy.
Going after bigger and bigger volume is never a good idea for a luxury make. At some point it is better to concentrate on quality and being more exclusive.
I have great memories as a kid sitting in my grandma's '66 Sedan de Ville Fleetwood and imagining I could drive it...then years later Mom inherited a '66 sedan de ville ... I still wish I had at least one of them
That 65 66 Blue Cadillac engine was the engine I had selected to rebuild in my 1972 high-school auto-shop class. We also had to rebuild the carburetor, generator and starter to have a running engine.
My dad had a 1965 2 door hardtop Calais Gold with a gold and beige cloth interior. When he bought it, it had "Finger Hut" clear plastic seat covers revealing a PERFECT interior. My dad immediately took the protector cover off. This thing was one of the most excellent unrestored cars he ever owned. It was loaded for a Calais, and I preferred its interior over the concurrent El Dorado leather interior! It had the upgraded automatic HVAC system, power windows (but not power vents) and Cruise control.
My grandfather had a 1965 Sedan DeVille he purchased used in the late 60's. Other than the fact the AFB carb was so gummed up my dad had to rebuild it and cook it out it was an amazingly nice car. He also had a 1960 series 60 4 door and later he had a 1973 Fleetwood Brougham so I kind of was able to get the whole Cadillac experience! Didn't appreciate it enough at the time.
I am in total agreement with your assessment - I did not know about the tail light bulb problem on the '66 . Your point about the interiors is spot on especially the Fleetwood - real wood trim.
What I never understood about the '65 and '66 model years, is the lesser DeVille model had this thick luxurious chrome molding on the door belt line, even on the convertible model. The upscale Eldorado's and Fleetwood's did not. You would have thought the more expensive models would have had the additional bling as had been done in the past. If I was to purchase a'65 or '66 Eldorado,, I would definitely get the chrome moldings and install them!
Yes, you could do that, but at the expense of resale value and originality. Of course, someone would buy your car, but it would take quite a while to sell it.
I was a car guy from a boy in the ‘60s. My dad had the lessor Cadillac, the ‘64 Olds Ninety Eight then a ‘ 71 Marquis Brougham. I particularly remember the Marquis because when I came home and saw it I thought that my dad’s boss had come over. Many decades on it’s sometimes hard to imagine that vehicles this beautiful were on the road. A time when a new car in the neighbourhood was a big deal. Great memories brought to us by a great channel!
I know what you mean. Those prices seem laughable today. My parents bought their first new car in 1966. It was a Ford Fairlane 500. I found the original window sticker in paperwork when my parents passed. The MSRP was $2,843.44. I remember that my father wanted a Mercury Comet Capri that the dealer had. The window sticker was $3,006.05. My mom was having a fit because the payment was going to be too high! Incidentally the payment on the Fairlane was $78.00 per month for 36 months. My father made $10,000 per year for the first time in 1966. Mom didn’t work and there were 3 of us kids. It sounds impossible to me now. We were far from wealthy, but I had a fantastic childhood!
In 66 my dad bought a comet caliente, red with a white painted top and red interior. Beautiful 2 door hardtop with a 289 and 3 speed. Sticker was a little over 2400. We weren't rich either but we had everything we needed.
Outside of the ‘67 Eldorado, the 1966 De Ville Series has always been my favorite, followed by the 1967 De Villes. Several family members owned them and I always begged for a ride in them when they came by. The leather or vinyl seats were super comfortable and the ride was like butter. I agree that they are the pinnacle of modern Cadillac design. Awesome information about these stunning cars, Adam. Your channel is one of my faves on YT.
In 1968, power windows became a standard option on all Calais. I always thought why but a luxury car if you don't want power windows. Now practically all cars have them. Kinda takes the uniqueness away
A friends father in law had a 66 Coupe de Ville. I had the pleasure of driving it a few times. I loved it and if space permitted would have one now. Smooth as silk.
My Grandpa bought a 65 Cadillac Coupe De Ville. He did a frame off restoration. He kept the original color combo, which was White with Red interior. It was gorgeous when it was done. The man who bought it from him had it about 2 months and totaled it. “Poppa” always bought vehicles, fixed them up and sold them. He always made a profit and it gave him something to do.
When I was a wee laddie growing up I the western suburbs of Chicagoland our neighbor who was a supervisor at GM s Electromotive division in McCook Illinois and a former Navy Officer bought home a New 65 coupe de ville convertible him & his wife were so proud of he use to talk about the great deal he got because he was a GM employee
Adam thankyou for profiling this beautiful era of Cadillacs...they were stunners at the time, and I envied my parents' friends who drove them. And you're right, they were very well made and reliable. I remember the dashboard on the '65, particularly the passenger side, being a knockout. It was a great time in American design.
Adam, I love the fact that you are now including photos of convertibles! The full-size premium US convertibles of the '50s and '60s are my absolute favorites cars of all time! I hope you'll review/show more of these in the future. I also would appreciate a review of the last (true) Imperials - the last unique one's with the full frames - '64, '65 and '66. When I was in high school in the early '70s, my best friend's dad had a black '65 SdV and his brother had a dark blue '65 60Sp and I drove both, a lot. They were probably the nicest driving, highest quality cars I've ever driven in my 54 years of driving - smooth, fast, solid, stable ( - not real floaty) and earily quiet. Of course, there wasn't much road feel from the finger light power steering and cornering speeds had to be kept sensibly low - but they were impressive to drive, none the less. The dashboard with the central location of the glovebox is one of my favorite features ( I love that the dash face is solid-feeling metal along with beautiful chrome switches, trim and controls) and the impressive row of eight (8!) power window switches on the driver's door of the 60Sp was an awesome sight! Both had Wonderbar radios with beautiful tone and the 60Sp had auto-dim headlights which were really rare back then. These were great cars in the snow too - super stable on the highway or in going through drifts and good traction with the new snow tires they both wore. I too believe these two years were Cadillac's (and maybe even GM's) finest ever before cost-cutting, 5 mph bumpers, occupant crash survival, low compression ratios, pollution controls and fuel economy forced a steady stream of necessary compromises and complexity that eventually led to today's vehicles.
I remember seeing a '66 Cadillac Sedan DeVille on a used car lot in the late 90's. The price was $11,000 and it was in amazing condition, obviously garaged. Always found these beautiful along with the Lincolns of the time.
You are right Adam, the ‘65 and ‘66 were Cadillac’s high point in design, interiors, and build quality. They were fantastic cars. I wish I still had one! Great video.
Back in the fall, I was very lucky and stumbled upon A car show where there was both 66 and 67 DeVille convertibles parked beside one another. The stacked headlight Cadillacs of this period are my favorite cars. While the 65-66 are certainly cleaner and higher quality overall, I love the dramatic styling of the 67-68 with their huge sweeping fenders. No other car I've seen in person has ever had such presence as these mid 60s Cadillacs. I've been enamored with these cars for quite a while now, and every time I get to see one, I am reminded of why they are my favorite.
Great video and from my memory very accurate. My dad's first Cadillac was a '66 Sedan De Ville. Wonderful car. I learned to drive in it and logged many miles behind the wheel. It was beautiful just as you described. Got 11 mph regardless of load, road type, altitude, etc. 11. Also used a quart of oil every 1,000 miles. My dad drove it for about 140,000 miles before he traded for a '71. By that time the motor was getting tired, but I really don't remember any mechanical issues with the car in the six years we had it in our family.
My favorite years for Cadillac. My grandfather (my dads dad) had a gold/white top and interior 66 Coupe DeVille. Beaulitiful car that replaced his light blue 62 Sedan DeVille.
"Why drive a Buick when Cadillac makes a convertible?" I knew a man who drove a 1965 Cadillac Coupe DeVille in the mid 1980s and he would say this to me - at the time my daily driver was the recently featured on this channel: 1973 Buick Centurion convertible. Now I drive a 1973 Eldorado by Cadillac.
Couldn’t agree more with your assessment of the dash appointments on the 65-66 Cadillacs. Works of art! Our “older neighbor” bought a ‘66 Sedan de Ville and loved seeing it come and go along our brick street! Gorgeous car!
My first car was a “1965” Hardtop Sedan de Ville, Aspen White w/ all red leather interior. and in flawless condition. It has always been my favorite car. A dream to drive.
Absolutely enjoy your content and all the research that goes into it. I love seeing how these designs evolved over time. My Dad’s ‘60 convertible, ‘66 sedan DeVille, and ‘72 Fleetwood Brougham were always my favorites. They were our family cars, but looking back now, I can see how iconic they were. The ‘66 was definitely the best car our family ever had.
Thanks for the memories! These really were certainly great cars, comfortable to ride in with understated elegance compared to what came before and after. In the mid-70's my grandparents inherited my grandfather's brother's '66 Sedan de Ville, hardtop in white with black cloth interior, power windows and seats, automatic temperature control and the nifty great sounding signal seeking AM radio. On some family trips I was stuck in the center with dad driving and my grandfather in the passenger seat but that gave me control of the AC and radio! Miss that car almost as much as my grandparents which is to say a LOT! A few minor things were a bit irritating, e.g. those round AC vents were almost worthless, all you could do was rotate them you couldn't just point them in any direction like so many other AC vents, and seemed like any direction they pointed wasn't where you wanted the air to go! Bit of trivia, the '66 Cadillac was the first production car that offered an AM/FM stereo radio as an option, shame my grandparents' de Ville didn't have it!
My dad had the Black with Burgundy leather interior, the black paint was so deep and amazing you could shave using it. The ride was beyond amazing. I latter was able to purchase a 1968 Sedan Deville Conv. I wish I still had both cars
You didn’t mention one beautiful feature - the glove compartment is in the center… making it available to the driver, and giving TONS of room for the passenger. I learned to drive in my folk’s 66 and still think it’s gorgeous.
I personally believe that America was atop of it game from 1960 to 1969. The products the Auto companies were making had very few issues, as compared to now. Plus the wild choices of style. It's a shame the Fed's destroyed that with their arbitrary bumper laws starting in 1973. They actually increased to cost of repair a vehicle traveling faster than 5 mph. What happens with Insurance and Feds working together.
Gorgeous cars for sure, however, the 1967 MY is a much much better looking car due to one simple, yet dramatic styling cue. The placement of the top headlight forward of the bottom light, rather than straight vertically, gives the ‘67 MY an illusion of forward motion even while standing still. The car looks like it just begs to eat up the highway, and seems to be pouncing forward like a big cat. Along with the ultra smooth sides, the ‘67 is just an outstanding design that invites the driver to gallop. 😎
if possible, can you do a similar video for either the 67/68 and/or the 69/70 Cadillacs? The 66 Convertible is one of my absolute favorite cars. Thanks again for another great video, Adam. They're so chock full of info. I really look forward to them.
The 65-66 Cadillacs were stately without being excessive. The lines were clean and tasteful. They were meant to exude class and sophistication and they achieved that goal. I recall a radio ad that said, "luxury, elegance - Cadillac magnificence."
In the 60's and 70's, I bought 10-year-ol used caddy's. Dirt cheap. Rich people didn't want to be seen in an old caddy. And most kids my age wanted fast/flashy cars. People just wanted them out of their garage/driveway. The air conditioners were massive and could cool the interior to perfection in less than a minute - and on the hottest days. The ride comfort was a beautiful thing. And if something went wrong with one, it was cheaper to get another used caddy than to take it to a shop. LOVED those things.
The air brush drawing has a look of Buick Electra 225,Olds 98. Production cars are of a time we won't ever see again,for better or worse. Thanks again for another great video..........RF
Yes , I'm aware what the 225 stands for, I'm pointing out the profile sweep of the drawing, who knows what the 3/4 view says. Thanks for the commet.....RF@@williamfelker6963
With the exception of the 1979 designer series, I have never been a Lincoln Continental fan. But that 1961 Lincoln Continental convertible is absolutely stunningly magnificent.
The very first car I purchased was a 1966 Coupe de Ville. I paid $500 for it in 1973. It was an amazing car. It had all the options. Auto HVAC, cruise control, automatic headlight dimmer, tilt. telescoping wheel, power windows including power vent windows, power door locks, 6-way power seats. Unfortunately, I was 18 and in college, and keeping all that stuff working was expensive. I only owned that car for about 1-1/2 years before selling it.
I had a 66 Olds Ninety Eight Coupe in the mid 2000s when I was in my midc20s. The poor man's Cadillac if you will. I preferred it because it was different.
Thanks for another great video. These cars were indeed very clean and beautiful. A suggestion for a future episode would be to document how Cadillac _earned_ its slogan (and reputation) as "Standard of the World" by winning the 1908 Dewar Trophy. A very interesting story and technical perspective.
Great video once again! We have been doing really well with many of these Cadillacs from the 50's all the way to the very early 80's! Having fun bringing them up to par and then passing on to a more permanent caretaker! Thanks for all the great videos!
It's a nice looking car. When I was in my 20s, I got my hands on a pristine gold 69 Coupe de Ville, with the 472 engine. I put (quiet & invisible) duel exhaust, which bumped the horsepower a little. I loved that car, and it was surprisingly fast! Especially with the duel exhaust, that giant battleship could fire down the freeway like a rocket!
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I have a 1965 Cadillac DeVille conv that I bought 29 years ago and it still turns heads today. Love that car.
Mine I bought in 2003 and is still running perfect also for wedding partys
The 1965/66 Caddy's were some of the best looking ever IMO. I love the long straight lines.
MY Dad had the '65 Deville, silver gray inside and out. Loved that car, esp. the POWER vent windows in the front doors.....also-you didn't need to have the car key turned on to operate the windows, there was a switch on drivers window controls that allowed the windows to be opened and closed without the key in ignition. Just a CLASSY car!!!!!!!!!!!
Those were the absolute pinnacle years for Cadillac for those made during my lifetime.
My Grandma had a new Cadillac every year for decades.
I remember as a little kid riding in them .
These remind me of her.
Thank you
If I recall correctly, Cadillac had a deal where a person could trade their Cadillac in every year plus $500 and get a new one. I'm not sure on the $500 amount but I know there was an incentive like that. Cadillac has since lost the brand appeal and opulence it had in the past Century particularly the decade of these years.
@@mickeydogtubemickeydogtube6856 interesting!
@@mickeydogtubemickeydogtube6856 I think she did that
Convertibles also .
Wish I kept one .
Totally agree, I haven't been in a Cadillac showroom in decades - the way "Cadillacs" look now, you'd think you're in a BMW showroom - totally bland, "blend in" cars!@@mickeydogtubemickeydogtube6856
That’s really cool.. a brand new caddy every year, your grandma must have been a pretty cool lady
'65 was a good year for almost everything. I like stacked headlights.
It was definitely a thing at GM in the mid-60s. Pontiacs were gorgeous.
Especially the stacked headlights on the '65 Pontiacs - a work of art!@@Primus54
1965 was the pinnacle of humanity overall for sure. Plateaued for a while and been dropping ever since.
I like stacked things in general...
65 Pontiac entire line won Motor Trend car of the year. They were beautiful. Pontiac almost was cut in 55. However they gave Bunkie, 5 years to turn the division around. They were 8th. In 60 they moved to number 3 in sales. Bunkie, dad was president of GM in the 20s. So GM blood was in there family. He wanted a car, so Bunkies dad had a 28 Chevrolet in parts. Said put it together by end of summer. He did. My first car was a 76 Grand Le Man's. Beautiful car. Factory 8 track. Aircraft dashboard. GM sent Pontiac down the drain. Sad. Oldsmobile as well.
As a (regrettably) former owner of a 66 SdV, I can attest to the quality of the fit and finish. Well styled, interior and exterior. Very reliable drivetrain. Boy, even after 30 years, I still miss my Caddy!!!!
No one in my family ever had a Cadillac until I got one in 2014. My family was middle class so it was usually Pontiac or Buick for us. My Grandfather would be proud.
I had a '66 Eldorado in Firethorn Mist w/a white top and interior - it was absolutely beautiful!
Had a blue baritz eldoado convert i had a lot of mechanical probs with it specially trans driveshaft valve seals. Always burned oil we used felpro was worse ordered original gm seals oil consumption stopped . terrible gas mileage but gas was 50c then 😵💫🥺🥶. Rebuilt trans lost holdback sprag clutch after warranty
Yes, we took a trade of a '66 Eldo cream-puff around 1970 or so. Pastel Baby-Blue /White Leather and White Canvas Roof. I drove it around for about a week before getting yelled at! It was the nicest convertible, AND head-turner I ever drove until an early nineties RR Corniche.
I have one as well. Identical to what you described. Car came out of california bay area insurance auction, a friend restored before selling it to me
My parents had a 65 Sedan DeVille it was dark metallic green with a light green leather interior and loaded with options. I loved that car.
In the latter 70's I bought a '65 Fleetwood Brougham. It remains to this day the most luxurious car I've owned. It was wonderful.
3:26 "...Bedizened with so much chrome..." I don't ever remember hearing that word in my 57 year old life, and I have some confidence in my vocabulary. But it is indeed a word, so I learned a new one today.
See cars. Learn vocab. All on this channel.
I thought he meant to say bedazzled.
Always a good day to learn at least, a new word among automobile data.
Thanks
@@RareClassicCarsLol!
Same here--never heard that word before today. Apparently, it's similar to bedight (adorned) but implies more garishness and excess, which the '58 Buicks & Oldsmobiles certainly had in spades!
I absolutely loved the 1966. For some reason the 1965 never did it for me. My parents had good friends who drove used Cadillac’s. They bought a super clean 1966 Coupe de Ville in 1969 for $3,000 from a Cadillac dealer. What a beautiful car. It was maroon with a black vinyl top and saddle brown leather interior. I can’t imagine buying a 3 year old Cadillac today for $30,000!
It’s funny, my dad bought an emerald green 1966 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 in 1969 for $2,200….just couldn’t stretch for the Olds 98…on the same lot…that would have set him back $2,600…..
1966 cleaned up the oddities of the 65. I feel it was the overall best Cadillac design of all time.
I had the luck of finding a slightly used '66 Coupe de Ville for about 3K back in the day. Silver exterior, Black vinyl roof, black dash and dark red damansk cloth interior trimmed in leather. What really got me interested in buying this one as it had every option available, which was nearly unheard of in 1966. Those were the days when many cars were ordered without air conditioning! Many a Calais went out of the show room without it. This '66 had Cruise, AND Auto-Level Control as well as the Guide-Matic/ Twilight-Sentinal system. T&T Wheel, AM-FM Signal Seeking Stereo, 6-way Seat (people used to order two-ways all the time back then!) Pwr. Locks , rear de-fog, etc. I could not let it get past me!
I put around 50k miles on it before selling it on. Another one of those cars I had that I wish I coulda, wish I shoulda, had the foresight to keep!
My Uncle Joe and Aunt Wilma traded their '55 Buick Special in for a new '65 Cadillac Calais that was the same color blue as the convertible at the beginning of this video. Even though it was a "lowly" Calais it was loaded with all the options except a vinyl top and they were very pleased with it. When they were ready to trade in '72 they checked out a new Cadillac Calais and were shocked at how cheap the interior looked with all the hard black plastic on the dash compared to quality of their '65 and ended up getting a '72 Buick Electra Limited instead. On another note, my first thought when I saw that front end on the model at 11:46 was the '65 Lincoln Continental.
My Uncle bought a new 1965 Cadillac Coupe DeVille Convertible in Black with a red leather interior. It was a beautiful car. I remember it as a kid driving around town with the top down. First convertible I rode in.
That 1st clay version looks similar to the 71 Eldorado design. Really appreciate seeing all those concept clay versions. Thanks.
I was thinking the same thing regarding the Eldo', especially in the rear.
@@andyj631 I really enjoy seeing the mock up clay and proposed design drawings especially for the era cars became my teenage obsession. The 60s to mid 70s. I even enjoy the 50s too. Like that 58 Buick. My parents had a 58 Caballero station wagon.
I see Eldo & also 1st gen Monte Carlo. Also the rear door shape is like a '71-'76 Caddy.
The 17:20 66 is mine, that I still own 👍🏻. You can access the bulbs easy, you need to remove the filler panel when the trunklid is open, and even with big hands you can change the bulbs 👍🏻. Found out after I removed the bumper twice! Own the car since 14 years now.
Interesting. Which filler panel? Inside the trunk?
@@RareClassicCars no, it is between the bumper and the edge of the trunk opening where the seal is installed. From there it is very easy to access the upper bulb. The 2 lower ones are changeable from below.
My Dad always raved about the look of the '65-'66 Caddy's when I was a kid. He rightfully loved the clean lines of this era. I have to agree. A very clean, and elegant design.
My dad had a loaded dark blue 1965 Sedan Deville. He let me drive it once in a while. It was like driving around in my living room.
Gramp's first Caddy was a '68 SDV. Dark green, black leather and top. 472 power, AC like an ice box, handled well for a big car too. I was 7, saw Grandma coming down the street, new from the dealer. It was so stunning, I couldn't contain myself. Story for another time. It replaced a white New Yorker that got stolen shortly after new....also stunning.
Did they have real wool cut pile carpeting like the imperial ?
My Dad acquired a '68 Coupe de Ville, triple black with all-leather interior. Getting in the car, one was enveloped in the amazing aroma of the leather and the hushed quiet-- a quiet so profound that the ticking clock in the dash seemed loud. I was just 17 or 18 and amazingly was permitted to drive the Caddy occasionally. I certainly would not let that happen if it was my '68 de Ville, which, by the way was still much like the '65 and '66 models presented here, but with the 429 engine enlarged to a kick ass 472k! Awfully big car--you didn't drive it so much as "guide" it. Great memories.
The 472 was an all-new engine design, it wasn't an enlarged 429. It actually didn't have much of anything I common with the 429. Even the bellhousing pattern is different.
Such a cool memory. Love how you recalled the clock ticking being so quiet. Seems very ‘cadillac’ to not have an annoyingly loud clock ticking in that impressive interior
My first car in 1977 was a 66 coupe de ville white with black vinyl top and a tan interior. My parents bought it from an elderly family member in 72 who wanted a smaller car, with only 24k on the odometer. It was an outstanding car and started my love affair with Cadillacs. As a 17 year old I pounded that car every chance I got. By the time I drove it to the crusher it was running on 6 cylinders the radio and windows stopped working. I wish I knew then what I know now. Next up was a 64 coupe de ville all white. Last year for true fins. I chromed the engine dual hush thrush mufflers wire wheels. All things considered that car was a rocket ship for its size. Man I miss those cars!
I like the minimalist profile view then the glitz front & rear. Cool design.
In the early 70's there was a 65 or 66 that used to park on my street. I didn't realize it at the time, but it was a low-optioned Calais that didn't have power windows or locks. My 7- or 8-year-old self was shocked at such a "lowly" and pedestrian Cadillac that I immediately disliked these model years, preferring instead the 67-68. Over time I've come to have a greater appreciation for the 65-66, especially the 65. My opinion is that forced model-year changes did the 66 any favors, and that the 65 had the best tail lights, followed by the 69, then the 77. The forced styling changes take a fantastic taillight design and muff them up. 65-66 IMHO is peak Cadillac for the interiors, with very evident cost-cutting cheapening them from 67 onward. Whoever thought wood from plastic trees in a Cadillac was a good idea needs to go work for Chevy.
Wonderful cars, the 67 and 68 were also great
I preferred the exterior styling of the '67 - '68 over '65 - '66.. They looked more "Cadillac".
@@MarinCipollina1966 was more grand and stately.
@@alanblanes2876 Opinions vary
I was a mechanic at the local Cad/Olds/Datsun dealership in 1970. 65 has always been my favorite model year of Cadillac.
I love Cadillacs and Lincolns. I own both and enjoyed watching this presentation. Thank you,
Going after bigger and bigger volume is never a good idea for a luxury make. At some point it is better to concentrate on quality and being more exclusive.
I have great memories as a kid sitting in my grandma's '66 Sedan de Ville Fleetwood and imagining I could drive it...then years later Mom inherited a '66 sedan de ville ... I still wish I had at least one of them
That green interior is stunning.
I have owned many cars over many years, a 1966 Cadillac stands out above them all.
The Fleetwoods had rear seat tray tables in that year. THAT was peak Cadillac!
Definitely among my favorite Cadillacs
That 65 66 Blue Cadillac engine was the engine I had selected to rebuild in my 1972 high-school auto-shop class. We also had to rebuild the carburetor, generator and starter to have a running engine.
My dad had a 1965 2 door hardtop Calais Gold with a gold and beige cloth interior. When he bought it, it had "Finger Hut" clear plastic seat covers revealing a PERFECT interior. My dad immediately took the protector cover off. This thing was one of the most excellent unrestored cars he ever owned. It was loaded for a Calais, and I preferred its interior over the concurrent El Dorado leather interior! It had the upgraded automatic HVAC system, power windows (but not power vents) and Cruise control.
My grandfather had a 1965 Sedan DeVille he purchased used in the late 60's. Other than the fact the AFB carb was so gummed up my dad had to rebuild it and cook it out it was an amazingly nice car. He also had a 1960 series 60 4 door and later he had a 1973 Fleetwood Brougham so I kind of was able to get the whole Cadillac experience! Didn't appreciate it enough at the time.
AFB? Quadrajet.
I am in total agreement with your assessment - I did not know about the tail light bulb problem on the '66 . Your point about the interiors is spot on especially the Fleetwood - real wood trim.
1966 and 70 were my favorite years. On the 1966, I love the body color that surrounds the headlights
I'm not even a car person, but I found this delightfully informative.
What I never understood about the '65 and '66 model years, is the lesser DeVille model had this thick luxurious chrome molding on the door belt line, even on the convertible model. The upscale Eldorado's and Fleetwood's did not. You would have thought the more expensive models would have had the additional bling as had been done in the past. If I was to purchase a'65 or '66 Eldorado,, I would definitely get the chrome moldings and install them!
Yes, you could do that, but at the expense of resale value and originality. Of course, someone would buy your car, but it would take quite a while to sell it.
@@davidgold5961 That chrome would be well worth it! I've seen the right side for sale on yabE!
@@davidgold5961 Be worth it!
@@davidgold5961 Those could be applied with adhesives, which could be removed later without a trace.
@@MarinCipollina yes, indeed, good idea.
I was a car guy from a boy in the ‘60s. My dad had the lessor Cadillac, the ‘64 Olds Ninety Eight then a ‘ 71 Marquis Brougham. I particularly remember the Marquis because when I came home and saw it I thought that my dad’s boss had come over. Many decades on it’s sometimes hard to imagine that vehicles this beautiful were on the road. A time when a new car in the neighbourhood was a big deal. Great memories brought to us by a great channel!
I know what you mean. Those prices seem laughable today. My parents bought their first new car in 1966. It was a Ford Fairlane 500. I found the original window sticker in paperwork when my parents passed. The MSRP was $2,843.44. I remember that my father wanted a Mercury Comet Capri that the dealer had. The window sticker was $3,006.05. My mom was having a fit because the payment was going to be too high! Incidentally the payment on the Fairlane was $78.00 per month for 36 months. My father made $10,000 per year for the first time in 1966. Mom didn’t work and there were 3 of us kids. It sounds impossible to me now. We were far from wealthy, but I had a fantastic childhood!
In 66 my dad bought a comet caliente, red with a white painted top and red interior. Beautiful 2 door hardtop with a 289 and 3 speed. Sticker was a little over 2400. We weren't rich either but we had everything we needed.
I didn't appreciate them in their day but those were great looking cars.
13:47 With the exposed stacked headlights that's a great looking car.
Outside of the ‘67 Eldorado, the 1966 De Ville Series has always been my favorite, followed by the 1967 De Villes. Several family members owned them and I always begged for a ride in them when they came by. The leather or vinyl seats were super comfortable and the ride was like butter. I agree that they are the pinnacle of modern Cadillac design. Awesome information about these stunning cars, Adam. Your channel is one of my faves on YT.
65 66 67 Coupe DeVilles were outstanding. We flipped a butt load of them in 70-71 and got our fledgling used car lot off the ground.
Power seats and windows were standard on all but the Calais.
In 1968, power windows became a standard option on all Calais. I always thought why but a luxury car if you don't want power windows. Now practically all cars have them. Kinda takes the uniqueness away
@@mickeydogtubemickeydogtube6856 "standard option" is confusing. Which was it, standard or optional ?
Had a 66 DeVille, 4 door, loaded, Purple ish in color, Black leather top/interior, what a ride !!!
A friends father in law had a 66 Coupe de Ville. I had the pleasure of driving it a few times. I loved it and if space permitted would have one now. Smooth as silk.
My Grandpa bought a 65 Cadillac Coupe De Ville. He did a frame off restoration. He kept the original color combo, which was White with Red interior.
It was gorgeous when it was done.
The man who bought it from him had it about 2 months and totaled it.
“Poppa” always bought vehicles, fixed them up and sold them.
He always made a profit and it gave him something to do.
I took my driver's license test in my Dads 1965 gold Sedan DeVille. Great car. Thanks for the video Adam.
When I was a wee laddie growing up I the western suburbs of Chicagoland our neighbor who was a supervisor at GM s Electromotive division in McCook Illinois and a former Navy Officer bought home a New 65 coupe de ville convertible him & his wife were so proud of he use to talk about the great deal he got because he was a GM employee
American made during her all-time-best era, "Those were the Days" . . .
Adam, I really look forward to your videos. Others I might look at occasionally, but yours I seek out, due to your excellent knowledge.
Adam thankyou for profiling this beautiful era of Cadillacs...they were stunners at the time, and I envied my parents' friends who drove them. And you're right, they were very well made and reliable. I remember the dashboard on the '65, particularly the passenger side, being a knockout. It was a great time in American design.
Adam, I love the fact that you are now including photos of convertibles! The full-size premium US convertibles of the '50s and '60s are my absolute favorites cars of all time! I hope you'll review/show more of these in the future. I also would appreciate a review of the last (true) Imperials - the last unique one's with the full frames - '64, '65 and '66.
When I was in high school in the early '70s, my best friend's dad had a black '65 SdV and his brother had a dark blue '65 60Sp and I drove both, a lot. They were probably the nicest driving, highest quality cars I've ever driven in my 54 years of driving - smooth, fast, solid, stable ( - not real floaty) and earily quiet. Of course, there wasn't much road feel from the finger light power steering and cornering speeds had to be kept sensibly low - but they were impressive to drive, none the less. The dashboard with the central location of the glovebox is one of my favorite features ( I love that the dash face is solid-feeling metal along with beautiful chrome switches, trim and controls) and the impressive row of eight (8!) power window switches on the driver's door of the 60Sp was an awesome sight! Both had Wonderbar radios with beautiful tone and the 60Sp had auto-dim headlights which were really rare back then. These were great cars in the snow too - super stable on the highway or in going through drifts and good traction with the new snow tires they both wore.
I too believe these two years were Cadillac's (and maybe even GM's) finest ever before cost-cutting, 5 mph bumpers, occupant crash survival, low compression ratios, pollution controls and fuel economy forced a steady stream of necessary compromises and complexity that eventually led to today's vehicles.
I remember seeing a '66 Cadillac Sedan DeVille on a used car lot in the late 90's. The price was $11,000 and it was in amazing condition, obviously garaged. Always found these beautiful along with the Lincolns of the time.
You are right Adam, the ‘65 and ‘66 were Cadillac’s high point in design, interiors, and build quality. They were fantastic cars. I wish I still had one! Great video.
Back in the fall, I was very lucky and stumbled upon A car show where there was both 66 and 67 DeVille convertibles parked beside one another. The stacked headlight Cadillacs of this period are my favorite cars. While the 65-66 are certainly cleaner and higher quality overall, I love the dramatic styling of the 67-68 with their huge sweeping fenders. No other car I've seen in person has ever had such presence as these mid 60s Cadillacs. I've been enamored with these cars for quite a while now, and every time I get to see one, I am reminded of why they are my favorite.
Great video and from my memory very accurate. My dad's first Cadillac was a '66 Sedan De Ville. Wonderful car. I learned to drive in it and logged many miles behind the wheel. It was beautiful just as you described. Got 11 mph regardless of load, road type, altitude, etc. 11. Also used a quart of oil every 1,000 miles. My dad drove it for about 140,000 miles before he traded for a '71. By that time the motor was getting tired, but I really don't remember any mechanical issues with the car in the six years we had it in our family.
My favorite years for Cadillac. My grandfather (my dads dad) had a gold/white top and interior 66 Coupe DeVille. Beaulitiful car that replaced his light blue 62 Sedan DeVille.
"Why drive a Buick when Cadillac makes a convertible?" I knew a man who drove a 1965 Cadillac Coupe DeVille in the mid 1980s and he would say this to me - at the time my daily driver was the recently featured on this channel: 1973 Buick Centurion convertible. Now I drive a 1973 Eldorado by Cadillac.
Couldn’t agree more with your assessment of the dash appointments on the 65-66 Cadillacs. Works of art! Our “older neighbor” bought a ‘66 Sedan de Ville and loved seeing it come and go along our brick street! Gorgeous car!
I look forward to the 1958 Buick and Oldsmobile video. The chrome alone could fill a episode.
Them some mighty fine looking Cadillac cars.
I learned how to drive in my parent's 66 Coupe De Ville.
It was huge.
Elegance and style drove design back in those days….. at least we have great memories to talk about.
My first car was a “1965” Hardtop Sedan de Ville, Aspen White w/ all red leather interior. and in flawless condition. It has always been my favorite car. A dream to drive.
I like these models, but loved the '64.
Beautiful and beautifully built cars. What was offered just 5-10 years later was a very precipitous decline.
Absolutely enjoy your content and all the research that goes into it. I love seeing how these designs evolved over time. My Dad’s ‘60 convertible, ‘66 sedan DeVille, and ‘72 Fleetwood Brougham were always my favorites. They were our family cars, but looking back now, I can see how iconic they were. The ‘66 was definitely the best car our family ever had.
Thanks for the memories! These really were certainly great cars, comfortable to ride in with understated elegance compared to what came before and after. In the mid-70's my grandparents inherited my grandfather's brother's '66 Sedan de Ville, hardtop in white with black cloth interior, power windows and seats, automatic temperature control and the nifty great sounding signal seeking AM radio. On some family trips I was stuck in the center with dad driving and my grandfather in the passenger seat but that gave me control of the AC and radio! Miss that car almost as much as my grandparents which is to say a LOT! A few minor things were a bit irritating, e.g. those round AC vents were almost worthless, all you could do was rotate them you couldn't just point them in any direction like so many other AC vents, and seemed like any direction they pointed wasn't where you wanted the air to go! Bit of trivia, the '66 Cadillac was the first production car that offered an AM/FM stereo radio as an option, shame my grandparents' de Ville didn't have it!
My dad had a 1968 sedan deville. Black/Black car - to this day I still see it as the most beautiful car ever built.
Can’t blame you, those stacked headlights are pretty
My dad had the Black with Burgundy leather interior, the black paint was so deep and amazing you could shave using it. The ride was beyond amazing. I latter was able to purchase a 1968 Sedan Deville Conv. I wish I still had both cars
You didn’t mention one beautiful feature - the glove compartment is in the center… making it available to the driver, and giving TONS of room for the passenger. I learned to drive in my folk’s 66 and still think it’s gorgeous.
Peak Cadillac. Born in 79 when I see these and then reflect on the 80s caddys I saw as a kid that were all old man cars..😢
I personally believe that America was atop of it game from 1960 to 1969. The products the Auto companies were making had very few issues, as compared to now. Plus the wild choices of style. It's a shame the Fed's destroyed that with their arbitrary bumper laws starting in 1973. They actually increased to cost of repair a vehicle traveling faster than 5 mph. What happens with Insurance and Feds working together.
Gorgeous cars for sure, however, the 1967 MY is a much much better looking car due to one simple, yet dramatic styling cue. The placement of the top headlight forward of the bottom light, rather than straight vertically, gives the ‘67 MY an illusion of forward motion even while standing still. The car looks like it just begs to eat up the highway, and seems to be pouncing forward like a big cat. Along with the ultra smooth sides, the ‘67 is just an outstanding design that invites the driver to gallop.
😎
if possible, can you do a similar video for either the 67/68 and/or the 69/70 Cadillacs?
The 66 Convertible is one of my absolute favorite cars.
Thanks again for another great video, Adam. They're so chock full of info. I really look forward to them.
The 65-66 Cadillacs were stately without being excessive. The lines were clean and tasteful. They were meant to exude class and sophistication and they achieved that goal. I recall a radio ad that said, "luxury, elegance - Cadillac magnificence."
Had a 65 4 door coupe deville In that colour blue over here in the England, UK. What a car! 7.0L!
In the 60's and 70's, I bought 10-year-ol used caddy's. Dirt cheap. Rich people didn't want to be seen in an old caddy. And most kids my age wanted fast/flashy cars. People just wanted them out of their garage/driveway. The air conditioners were massive and could cool the interior to perfection in less than a minute - and on the hottest days. The ride comfort was a beautiful thing. And if something went wrong with one, it was cheaper to get another used caddy than to take it to a shop. LOVED those things.
I think Cadillac interiors were pretty great in the '80s, even though the "wood" trim was plastic. They looked very inviting.
The air brush drawing has a look of Buick Electra 225,Olds 98. Production cars are of a time we won't ever see again,for better or worse. Thanks again for another great video..........RF
For Your Info Buick Electra 225 (225) Stands For The Length Of The Car Two Hundred Twenty Five Inches
Yes , I'm aware what the 225 stands for, I'm pointing out the profile sweep of the drawing, who knows what the 3/4 view says. Thanks for the commet.....RF@@williamfelker6963
With the exception of the 1979 designer series, I have never been a Lincoln Continental fan. But that 1961 Lincoln Continental convertible is absolutely stunningly magnificent.
I always enjoy seeing the different styling proposals that show would could have been.
The '67 and '68 were home runs on the exterior style, but the interiors were starting to cheapen.
The very first car I purchased was a 1966 Coupe de Ville. I paid $500 for it in 1973. It was an amazing car. It had all the options. Auto HVAC, cruise control, automatic headlight dimmer, tilt. telescoping wheel, power windows including power vent windows, power door locks, 6-way power seats. Unfortunately, I was 18 and in college, and keeping all that stuff working was expensive. I only owned that car for about 1-1/2 years before selling it.
I had a 66 Olds Ninety Eight Coupe in the mid 2000s when I was in my midc20s. The poor man's Cadillac if you will. I preferred it because it was different.
In the mid 50s and uptill mid 60s Cadillac were Cadillac American style at its best they had a presence which showed the owner had good taste!
1966 was one of my favorite years for all GM products
Adam, You call these Cadillacs some of the last that really were 'The Standard of the World' and I call them Cadillacs That Require No Apology® 😉
That 1966 tail lamp servicability was BRUTAL...turns a 10c, 5min job into an ordeal.
Small hands and a small screwdriver make the job possible without removing the bumper
My parents had 66 sedan deville.i still want that car back.thanks
Excellent episode. Loved seeing the models and drawings.
Thank you for writing the narrations so thoughtfully for your videos, it's a pleasure to listen, as well as to watch them!
Thanks for another great video. These cars were indeed very clean and beautiful.
A suggestion for a future episode would be to document how Cadillac _earned_ its slogan (and reputation) as "Standard of the World" by winning the 1908 Dewar Trophy. A very interesting story and technical perspective.
Great video once again! We have been doing really well with many of these Cadillacs from the 50's all the way to the very early 80's! Having fun bringing them up to par and then passing on to a more permanent caretaker! Thanks for all the great videos!
It's a nice looking car. When I was in my 20s, I got my hands on a pristine gold 69 Coupe de Ville, with the 472 engine. I put (quiet & invisible) duel exhaust, which bumped the horsepower a little. I loved that car, and it was surprisingly fast! Especially with the duel exhaust, that giant battleship could fire down the freeway like a rocket!
Thanks to Adam for the masterful telling of the story of my favorite subjects.
Awesome cars! Great information. Always enjoy these!