The 1970s were a roller coaster for the American automobile industry. As the decade progressed, the oil crisis put a strain on fuel availability and prices, which in turn shaped auto manufacturing and consumer choices. Amidst this challenging landscape, some car makers managed to produce vehicles that not only captured the market’s imagination but also came with price tags that reflected their luxury and innovation.
Chrysler New Yorker Brougham 1978
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Starting our journey in 1978, the Chrysler New Yorker Brougham stands out with its appealing $8,000 price tag, a notable figure for the era. This model was packed with luxury, featuring a 6.6-liter V8 engine that produced 190 horsepower and over 300 pound-feet of torque. The Brougham wasn’t shy about its luxury appointments either: power door locks, an antenna, trunk release, seats, and automatic climate control were all part of the package. Despite these features, the Brougham struggled with sales, possibly due to its cost. However, its value has since decreased, and it’s possible to find one today for about $2,000.
Buick’s 1979 Riviera
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Buick’s 1979 Riviera takes the ninth spot with a higher price than the New Yorker but boasting better sales. It was celebrated for being Buick’s first-ever front-wheel-drive car, complete with a fully independent suspension. The Riviera wasn’t short on luxury with its four-wheel disc brakes, digital trip meter, and a sliding glass sunroof. The standard power came from an Oldsmobile 5.7L V8, but a turbocharged 3.8L V6 was also available, putting out 185 horsepower. These days, a ’79 Riviera might set you back around $3,500.
The Oldsmobile Toronado of 1979
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The Oldsmobile Toronado of 1979, utilizing GM’s E-platform like the Buick Riviera and Cadillac Eldorado, made significant strides as the first American front-wheel drive car since 1937. The ’79 model saw weight reduction as a priority, creating a lighter vehicle powered by the same 5.7L V8 engine found in the Riviera, achieving 170 horsepower. Despite a top speed of 110 mph and a 0 to 60 time of 9.4 seconds, its original steep price of $10,709—which adjusts to over forty thousand dollars today—means that a used ’79 Toronado might sell for about $7,000 now.
1977 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham
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In 1977, Cadillac decided to slim down its Fleetwood Brougham, cutting its length by about 10 inches and shedding around 900 pounds compared to its predecessor. Priced at $11,546 when new, this model was luxurious, even including height control for the rear suspension among its many features. Today, the price for one of these has dropped significantly, with many selling for around $2,000.
Cadillac DeVille sedan of 1979
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The Cadillac DeVille sedan of 1979 was not just any luxury car; it had style and a price to match at $12,093. For those willing to spend a bit more, the Phaeton package added $2,000 to the price but came with a simulated convertible top, wire wheel discs, and special badges, available in just three colors. Nowadays, a DeVille from 1979 without the Phaeton package could fetch as much as $7,500.
The 1979 Chevrolet Corvette C3
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A sports car also made its mark during this period. The 1979 Chevrolet Corvette C3, despite a lack of technological advancements, was a standout in sales. It offered the L82 package, which provided 225 horsepower, bucket seats from the pace car, and spoiler and glass roof panels. Though it didn’t bring much new to the table, a well-kept ’79 Corvette can still demand around $26,300 today.
Cadillac Eldorado of 1978
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As we continue, the Cadillac Eldorado of 1978 exhibited an independent rear suspension for the first time along with a standard 5.7L V8 engine. Priced significantly higher than some of its contemporaries, a decent condition ’78 Eldorado is valued around $13,000 today, showcasing its lasting appeal.
Cadillac Seville 1976
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Cadillac’s answer to the oil crisis, the 1976 Seville, used a smaller platform but added luxury, weighting 4,675 pounds and powered by a 5.7L V8. Designed for comfort and quiet, it was initially priced at $12,479, yet can be found for roughly $5,000 now.
1977 Lincoln Continental Mark V
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The second most expensive car of the decade, the 1977 Lincoln Continental Mark V, offered luxury features and a hefty price tag of $13,771. Today, collectors might pay around $20,000 for a well-preserved model, proving its enduring desirability.
1970 Stutz Blackhawk
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Topping the list is the 1970 Stutz Blackhawk, a car that combined American engineering with Italian design flair, fetching $22,000 new. Famously owned by celebrities like Elvis Presley, its plush interiors and powerful performance make it a sought-after classic, with current values around $75,000.