76 cadillac

im thinkin of gettin a 76 caddy with a 501in it
its also front wheel drive

are these cars any good?

its bodyis in rough shape, it hasnt ran in years and the interior is not to good

the guy wants $400 is it worth it?

When in decent shape these cars were great. I assume this is an Eldo, as you said fwd, be warned a car like this not running can lead into a multitude of expensive repairs.

are caddy parts more expensive than most?

Body parts yes, mechanical on older cars based on availability, no. Dash and electronic controls are expensive, engine and mechanical components can be, labor can be very high on some repairs also.

The old Eldorados are great cars, but I'd be weary of one that has been sitting for years.
If you really want one, I'd save up for one in better shape.

do caddy's have alot of problems when the get older? i wouldnt mind workin on it, as long as i could get reasonably priced parts

where could i get parts for this car?

I always like to recommend www.rockauto.com . They carry an extensive line of parts, even for older vehicles,( that makes me feel "old" when I mention a '76, as I remember when these cars were new. Other places that may be a good source include Hemmings Motor News, a monthly publication for body parts and mechanical parts as well. They have both private sale ads and commercial ads and IIRC saw some ads for Caddy parts both new and used. If there are any Cadillac enthusiast clubs in your area they might be worth checking out to get info on where their members buy their parts. Also inquire with owners of similar vehicles at car shows, many like to discuss aspects of their vehicles including sources for parts.

parts are no problem. any patrs store should be able to supply you with mechanical parts needed.
I dont know if I like the 400 bucks and not running for years.
If the person had it running when I got there then mabey I might consider it.
basicaly, for 400 and its age you should be able to start it and drive it home.
caddys are nice but it sounds like you would have your hands full.
I am gona go check something and post back.

NADA says the car is worth 4K .
now figuar the condition.
better yet, can you get us a pic to look at?

I would buy one in better condition. It would be worth it in the long run.

BTW, '76 Eldorados had a 500-cu-in engine, not a 501.

Check the dates before replying, this thread has been inactive for over a year, thanks.

I owned a 76 Eldo convertible. Had it for years. Like riding on a cloud when everything works. Here are the inherent problems with the auto:
* Exhaust manifold cracks - mine cracked on the drivers side and the heat seeping out of the manifold caused my brake fluid to boil and the brakes to fail.
* Dash pad cracks - it will happen even if you take care of it. that's just the way GM made them. i had spares in the attic but once in sunlight, they split too. garbage.
* CV top carriage problem - the folding top has pivot points that wear. keep them greased else the top skews when lowering sometimes resulting in tears caused by sharp screws in the wells.
* Ash tray covers - yes, I said ash tray covers. there is a spring that attaches to the pivot arm. after 20 years of tension, the eyelet breaks and the cover drops back. annoying, and you can't weld pot metal.
* Clock - mechanical, so it will fail and will need to be rebuilt if you care about it.
* Shocks/suspension - the air ride is expensive to replace. I replaced mine with Monroe air shocks. i put the fill-valve under the hood so I could put air in it when I checked my oil
* CV Boots - they split---often. ensure a high quality replacement. i replaced the whole shaft with a well built life time warrantied one.
* Conv Top leaks - especially in the trunk. the tension bar needs to be set right when replacing the top. the latches on the front break/split after years of use. have spares.
* Bumper inserts and bezels disintegrate - compliments of your insurance industry. i replaced all the rubber inserts with fiberglass ones made up by a local fellow. they lasted the life of the car. the originals will certainly split and fall apart.
* Interior door vinyl splits - the covering is pressed on and is so thin it will split over time. I replaced front and rear with a quality guage vinyl that lasted.

I never had a tranny problem. With no problems, the car is a dream to drive. The high torque engine moves the car nicely. I parted mine out(accident) for use on an air boat.

I haven't looked for another as they are 22 feet long and I would have to clear out my garage again to fit it in. There's plenty of room in the engine compartment for you to work and after market parts are easy to come by.

Also, GM sold about 25000 of them so the yards have plenty of body parts.

That's my experience and I'm sure I forgot a lot since I replaced it.

Ya you have a perfect choice.I must suggest you to go with your choice without any fear.