1996 Cadillac Eldorado 3.5

1996 CADILLAC ELDORADO , , The Eldorado is every bit as flashy on the outside as its corporate cousin, yet more sublime. , , The exterior plays off the styling heritage of the original 1967 Eldorado. But this front-driver is very up to date. The base Eldo comes equipped with Cadillac's superb Northstar engine. This 4.6-liter V-8 is rated at 275 horsepower and 300 pound feet of torque. Power delivery is smooth and assured, with seamless shifts from the electronically controlled automatic. , , Faster than the Buick, it also handles with more poise and is a bit more fun t o toss through corners. Gas mileage was better than the Buick's 18 mpg, netting 19 mpg. , , Being the base car, there weren't so many features as were found on its nautical cousin. Missing from GM's premier coupe were heated seats and dual climate controls. But the Eldorado was much more of a driver's car, despite being every bit as big. Both cars had good trunk space, but the Caddy's squared-off roof gave it superior back-seat space. Both were well-built and quiet, yet the Eldorado clearly felt more expensive, with refined handling and polished interior amenities. But then again, at 41 big ones, you should get something more for your money. , , Overall, both cars offer distinct personalities. The Eldorado has a very European feel to its suspension and handling, with a more refined feel than its Buick brother. What the Riv offers is more features for the money, giving heavy dollops of luxury over a dynamic driving experience. , , Either one allows its drivers so ething beyond the typical four-door sedan. Both offer their owners shapes beyond the ordinary. , , You might call each a coupe de grace to the competition.