The 1968 Cadillac DeVille Convertible represented the absolute peak of American open-air luxury. At a time when personal luxury meant chrome, cubic inches, and comfort above all else, the DeVille was the undisputed king of the boulevard.
The 1968 model year brought a mid-cycle refresh with a new grille, revised tail lamps, and a more pronounced horizontal emphasis that made the already-massive car look even wider. Hidden headlamps (introduced in 1965) were retained, framed by a full-width egg-crate grille.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 472 cu in (7.7L) Cadillac V8 |
| Power | 375 hp |
| Torque | 525 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | ~8.5 seconds |
| Transmission | 3-speed Turbo-Hydramatic automatic |
| Wheelbase | 129.5 inches |
| Length | 224.7 inches |
| Curb weight | ~4,600 lbs |
The 472 V8 was Cadillac's largest-yet engine, designed specifically for the new front-wheel-drive Eldorado but shared across the lineup. It was legendary for its smoothness and virtually indestructible bottom end.
The DeVille Convertible featured:
The interior was upholstered in plush cloth or leather, with thick carpeting, wood-grain accents, and enough room for six adults. The ride was famously silent — Cadillac engineers used pounds of sound deadening to create a rolling living room.
1968 was the last year for the DeVille Convertible in this generation. Rising insurance costs, tightening safety regulations, and declining demand for convertibles meant that open-top luxury was becoming a rarity. By 1976, Cadillac would produce its last convertible until the 1980s.
Today, surviving 1968 DeVille Convertibles in good condition are highly sought after, commanding $25,000–$60,000 depending on originality and options. The combination of V8 power, true four-passenger comfort, and that inimitable late-60s Cadillac style makes them a favourite among classic American car collectors.
Sources:
If you could own any full-size American convertible from the 1960s, which one would it be — a Cadillac, Lincoln, or Imperial?
