Market recovery came about as a result of several needed improvements for
1988. The return of crisp fenderlines, a rear end
lengthened three inches, and a new "power dome" hood lent a "more
Cadillac" look, and performance improved via a bored-out 4.5 liter V-8
whose 25 extra horses trimmed 0-60 times from 12.5 seconds to a sprightly
9.9.
The 1988 Cadillac line featured a new 4.5 liter V-8 for the Eldorado. The
Eldorado was extensively redesigned. The acceleration of Cadillacs
with the new V-8 was better than any comparable Cadillac of the last
decade. The Eldorado's sheet metal, except for the roof, was all new.
In response to what Cadillac admitted was a call for "more distinctive
styling," the Eldorado was given a major restyling for 1988. Major exterior
sheet metal panels including the front fenders, hood, C-pillar, rear quarters
and rear deck were all new as were the grille and taillights. The result was
a longer, crisper, more tailored appearance. Both the front and rear fenders
were subtly bladed. The traditional Eldorado grille had a bolder, more open
pattern and the hood was set off by a raised power dome and a new header
molding. The side view was enhanced by the extension of the rear fender
line forward into the C-pillar, which was a long time Eldorado trademark.
The new rear fender extensions and rear bumper were contoured into a
redesigned end panel which, along with a new taillight design, also gave
the 1988 model a classic Eldorado appearance. The standard power radio
antenna was relocated to the rear fender to provide for improved corrosion
protection.
As was the case with other Cadillacs powered by the new V-8, the Eldorado had
a 4.5 liter V-8 engine identification plaque on the decklid. Six new exterior
colors were offered for the 1988 Eldorado, bringing the color choice to 17.
Both the Eldorado and Eldorado Biarritz had new design pinstripes. A restyled
full vinyl roof was available for the Eldorado. The Biarritz had a revised
formal cabriolet roof as standard equipment. Interior changes for 1988
consisted of a redesigned rear seat frame with added cushion suspension
system. A new upholstery design featuring horizontal stripes was also used.
Two new interior colors, antelope and beechwood, were added to complement
the new exterior choices. A total of nine interior colors were offered. New
self-storing pull-swing door handles along with new-design wider headrests
were found in the 1988 Eldorado.
| Model | Series Number | Body/Style Number | Body Type | Seating | Factory Price | Shipping Weight | Production Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eldorado | 6E | L57 | 2-door Coupe | 6 | $24,891 | 3399 lb | 33,210 |
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May 11, 2000; March 8/03
