The staff here at Sunset Cadillac of Bradenton is extremely knowledgeable about the Cadillacs of today. We also know our history, including that of the lesser-known Cadillac pick-ups. From 2002 to 2013, Cadillac developed the EXT version of the Escalade, offering the luxury of its SUV with the convenience of a truck bed. But, did you know that it wasn't the first venture into the truck market for the auto manufacturer? In the mid-1970s Cadillac offered a custom design, called the Mirage, for discerning individuals wanting the luxury of the brand coupled with the need for an open bed in the back.
Cadillac Commissioned an Outside Source to Convert the de Ville
In 1949, Cadillac showed off its first Coupe de Ville. With its ever-growing popularity, 25 years later the auto manufacturer partnered up with a well-known Hollywood car modifier and hot-rodder Gene Winfield, to convert the back of the Coupe de Ville into a truck bed. Winfield was working with Traditional Coach Works at the time and all individual Mirage trucks received their modification in California's San Fernando Valley. The car's chassis and wheelbase were a great match for conversion into a pickup. The result was a classier step above the Chevy El Camino and Ford Ranchero.
During 1975 and '76 just over 204 Cadillac Mirages built. Those were the only years the truck model was made. The conversion added about $9,000 to the vehicle cost. Buyers were those who wanted the comfort and prestige of a Cadillac yet needed a truck bed. History reveals that Evel Knievel was the first in line for a Mirage. He used it as a film prop as well as for his own personal use.
Details for Cadillac Aficionados
The Mirage was equipped with an 8.2-liter 500 cubic-inch engine. With 200 horsepower the Mirage also featured a torque of 400 lb.-ft. Each Coupe de Ville was cut and widened for the pickup bed which could accommodate 8 feet in length with a closed tailgate.
There was a hidden storage area to keep valuables out of view. The spare tire was covered and locked in the back of the bed. A few vehicles were equipped with a side "golf-bag" door.
The Mirage earned its way on the Top 12 Best (or Classiest) Cadillacs of All Time List, according to Cheapism.com in 2019, along with an earlier Coupe de Ville model. The list, by year, is as follows:
- 1930 V16
- 1937 Cadillac Sixteen Custom Phaeton 5859
- 1940 Series 62
- 1946 Fleetwood Series 75
- 1953 Eldorado Convertible
- 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham
- 1959 de Ville Series
- 1965 Fleetwood Sixty Special Brougham
- 1975-76 Cadillac Mirage
- 1976 Eldorado Fleetwood Convertible
- 1980 Seville Elegante
- 1999 Escalade
What Used Cars in Bradenton Are Available Today?
With the sparsity in numbers of Cadillac Mirage built, finding one today is quite the coo. They can be found available from time to time. And, while Cadillac is not yet researching a newer version of the EXT, we are not ready to rule the possibility out for the future.
However, pre-owned Escalade EXTs offering the Cadillac grandeur while filling the niche only a pickup can provide are available along with other used cars for sale in Bradenton. Call upon the experts at Sunset Cadillac of Bradenton to see what we have available, whether you are looking for something new or any pre-owned model of the Escalade or a Cadillac sedan. If we don't have what you desire, we will find it for you.
We take care of our customers and our staff, striving for the best care possible during the time of this pandemic. Our dealership also offers:
- Free delivery to your door, anywhere in Florida,
- Our Best Price Guarantee,
- Roadside assistance 24/7,
- Complimentary loaners while your car is in service,
- Concierge service of pick-up and drop-off for service work,
- Executive car washes, complimentary for our customers.
For new or pre-owned vehicles and the best service available along the Gulf Coast, call upon our Bradenton auto dealership for all of your Cadillac needs. Give us a call at (941) 932-8852 or pay us a visit at 4780 14th St. in Bradenton. Sales and service are open Monday through Saturday.
