36 Classic American Luxury Cars From The ’60s and ’70s

4. 1965 Chevrolet Caprice

When Chevrolet introduced the Caprice model in late 1965 and early 1966, nobody expected it would be so successful. In fact, it spanned five generations and millions of cars. They designed the Caprice as a luxury version of the Impala with more powerful engines, luxury, and a few distinctive external differences.

For example, in the 1966 model, the base engine was a V8, and not the standard straight six. Also, all models had a vinyl roof as standard. For performance lovers, Chevrolet offered their 396 and 400 V8 models in the Caprice four-door hardtop.

3. 1969 Chrysler New Yorker

Chrysler ended the ’60s on a high note with the brand new and influential “Fuselage” styling. The rounded sides and lower, sleeker profile looked modern in comparison to other models. In fact, they used “Fuselage” styling throughout the Chrysler range. So all new full-size Mopars, including Dodge, Plymouth, and Imperial had this look.

The mechanics on the 1969 to 1971 New Yorker weren’t exactly new. But they improved the suspension, chassis, and drivetrain. The biggest engine you could get was the 440 V8, which moved this big sedan down the road with authority.

2. Mercury Park Lane Brougham

As a luxury division of Ford Motor Company, Mercury offered upscale features, elegant designs, and powerful engines. But the Park Lane Brougham was the most luxurious Mercury. In fact, it was close to Lincoln in terms of prestige and elegance.

They introduced it in 1967 and sold it through 1968. The Park Lane Brougham had a plush interior and vinyl roof. It also came with leather seats along with a special list of optional extras.

1. 1967 Cadillac Eldorado

One important year was 1967 when the Eldorado received a new design, technology and drivetrain. For years, the Eldorado served as a top of the line personal luxury model from Cadillac. But by the mid-60s, almost all GM brands developed similar cars to compete with the Eldorado on the market. So, Cadillac needed a new model to make a statement.

But they still wanted to keep the Eldorado on top of the segment. The 1967 model featured gorgeous new coupe styling with hide-away headlights. Also, it had a long hood and an elegant rear end. Car fans thought the new Eldorado looked gorgeous. So, even when they discontinued the convertible option, sales still went through the roof.

The biggest change was the switch to front-wheel drive (FWD). In those days, FWD was only in those rare foreign models. So, when Oldsmobile introduced front-wheel drive on its 1966 Toronado, Cadillac improved it for use on the Eldorado. With this feature, the Eldorado had nearly perfect handling and driving dynamics. However, it still retained the mighty 340 HP engine and all the Cadillac characteristics.