I've notice quite a few Caddies for sale in the $500 - $1000 range and I was thinking about buying one to fix up. Anyone else looking or have any advice on which year and model? So far there's a 72 Eldo convertible resto project, 77 Eldo that's been in some guys collection for 20 years, 77 Coupe DeVille, 78 DeVille, 81 Eldo V864, 85 Eldo, and countless newer models. I'm staying away from the Northstar cars myself because they usually need a new engine or head gaskets. I'm also thinking the big seventies era Eldos aren't going to be as easy or cheap as the RWD Devilles or Fleetwood Broughams. I don't care about mechanical repairs other than the Northstar engine (which is too costly still and headgasket jobs are a real pain). But I'd like to hear your opinions, buying tips or words of caution. It always helps to hear from others that have already done the trial and error on their cars.

We got my dad's '93 for $900 on ebay, it was in mint condition, with only a few minor electrical problems, fully loaded with sunroof and all. Those cars are bulletproof and if you can get them for a price like that, it's the best investment you could make.

Find a middle 60's hearse, gray/black/chrome, huge engine, and turn it into a boulevard screamer with duals, sound and a casket/plastic skeleton and all the trimmings. Absolute guaronteeeed chick magnet.

One of my co-workers is a big 80's Cadillac fan. He recently helped his son find an 81 DeVille for under $500 and is helping him with the necessary repairs.

If you want to stay away from serious mechanical repairs like the N* HG issue do not get the V 8-6-4 or a HT-4100 engine. They do not have the best track record either. Personally I would aim for a '78-'79 Coupe DeVille. They made almost 200,000 in those two years alone and are easy to come by and they are, IMO, some of the best looking caddies every made.

Yeah, the 77-79 deVille/ Fleetwood Broughams are a solid choice, but that '77 Eldorado that's been in a collection for the last 20 years sounds promising too...

The 77 Eldorado hasn't been restored or anything. But it shouldn't be too rusty or worn out. It still has the original wide whitewall tires.