One of the models that lured Cadillac back from the brink of becoming a laughingstock was the current edition of the Eldorado. Introduced in 1992 to critical acclaim, and then substantially improved with the introduction of the Northstar V8 in 1993, the Eldorado, and its sister car, the Seville, redefined Cadillac for the world.

However, the Eldorado hasn't been selling well. Seems the market for high-priced, traditional luxury coupes has dried up a bit during the past few years, and rumors are circulating about the death of this luxury coupe before the end of the decade. That would be too bad, because what's here is good. The Northstar V8 has been called the best production engine on the planet, and for 1996 Cadillac has improved the Eldorado. The changes aren't obvious, because exterior revisions are limited to the addition of daytime running lights and one new color.

Inside, the Eldorado's interior, seemingly inspired by Mercedes-Benz, is rich with leather and wood. Seats have been redesigned this year for better comfort, and audio systems have been revamped. An integrated voice-activated cellular phone is available, and "Sea Mist" leather is newly optional. It all works beautifully, but buyers evidently balk at spending 40 grand for an Eldorado.

The Touring Coupe benefits from additional improvements. A revised instrument panel with larger gauges and a more sporty, contemporary look debuts. Rainsense, a system that automatically turns on the windshield wipers and moderates their speed when it detects rainfall, is standard on the ETC. The restyled dashboard gets a seamless airbag design for the passenger restraint, resulting in a more smooth, refined appearance. A new center armrest contains increased storage room for music and the cellular phone. An upgraded Continuously Variable Road-Sensing Suspension is standard.

Lincoln's Mark VIII is a tad more expensive (except in California, where Marks come loaded for about $4,000 less than the Caddy) with only a slight performance penalty, and its retro-futuristic styling themes inside and out do not appeal to us as much as the Eldo's sharper edges, richly-appointed interior, and excellent powerplant, particularly in Touring Coupe form.

1996 Highlights

Sea Mist Green is a new interior and exterior color, and daytime running lights are standard. Eldorado gets new seats and revised audio systems. Touring Coupe interior is revised, with a center-stack console, bigger gauges and seamless passenger airbag. Rainsense, an automatic windshield wiper system, is standard on the ETC, as is an updated continuously variable road-sensing suspension.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 1996 Cadillac Eldorado.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.824 reviews

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5(79%)

4(17%)

3(4%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

A Luxury Hot Rod

ssspump,10/18/2010

This car is awesome!! Mine is the Metallic Maroon with the Tan leather. With the Cadillac chrome wheels, it is definitely an eye catcher. The Northstar engine purrs like a kitten, the brakes are very confident building, and the ride is great. I really can't find much negative to say about the car, but for a car that is 14 plus years old, I will put it up against many of the later

Trouble starting

jems,10/13/2008

I inherited this car from my father and thought I would be able to keep it forever. It rides nicely and I've learned how to handle it. As it has aged, it doesn't start up right away. We takes bets on how many times I have to turn the key before the engine starts each day. Then it is fine for the rest of the day. My mechanic can't fix it. I am afraid to get stuck too far away from home.

That Caddy

inkpimp1981,02/22/2010

For all the Cadillac fans out the who really appreciate their luxury car, you need to test drive one of these suckers. They move like no other, and sped pass a BMW 74Li. Thats a 'Lac!!!

Sold on Caddy

Eldorado man,03/11/2010

I love old muscle cars and I own a lot of them because of the power and performance that I thought wasn't available anymore. WRONG! This car has true power that you will not only see and hear but FEEL too! Aside from the performance, the styling and luxury of this car is incredible. It's definitely a head knocker. Not to mention the classic quality that you would expect from Cadillac. I

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Features & Specs

MPG

15 city / 24 hwy

Seats 0

4-speed automatic

Gas

300 hp @ 6000 rpm

MPG

15 city / 24 hwy

Seats 0

4-speed automatic

Gas

275 hp @ 5600 rpm

See all Used 1996 Cadillac Eldorado features & specs

Safety

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
0

More about the 1996 Cadillac Eldorado

Used 1996 Cadillac Eldorado Overview

The Used 1996 Cadillac Eldorado is offered in the following submodels: Eldorado Coupe. Available styles include Touring 2dr Coupe, and 2dr Coupe.

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Should I lease or buy a 1996 Cadillac Eldorado?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Used 1996 Cadillac Eldorado

Used