This 1966 DeVille Convertible epitomizes mid-1960s luxury, offering a perfect blend of style, comfort, and power. Built during the third week of July 1966, this DeVille is an all-original example that showcases its preservation, with the original paint still intact, as confirmed by the paint meter. It comes with numerous trophy wins, further underscoring its excellent condition and desirability.
The car is finished in striking Flamenco Red, complemented by a black, power-folding vinyl top. The paint and trim are in overall very good condition, with the bodywork straight and solid. The car’s chrome bumpers fit tightly to the body, further enhancing its luxurious presence. The black vinyl top is also in excellent order, contributing to the car's timeless appeal. Under the hood, a new battery has been installed, and the engine bay is neatly organized, with the trunk also being in good shape.
Rolling on Michelin radial tires (size 235/75R15), this big cruiser sits on steel wheels topped with factory wheel covers, all of which are in very good condition. These tires ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, in keeping with the tradition of refined driving experiences.
Under the counterbalanced hood is a powerful 429 CID V-8 engine, paired with a three-speed automatic transmission and a 3.21:1 rear end. The car offers plenty of power for cruising with ease, and it’s equipped with driver convenience features like air-conditioning, power steering (variable ratio, recirculating-ball), power disc/drum brakes, power windows, and power locks. Additionally, this DeVille Convertible comes with Soft-Ray glass, power ventilation windows, automatic climate control, and six-way power front seats, further enhancing the luxury experience.
Inside, the Medium Red Leather interior is in overall great condition. The front and rear bench seats are well-preserved and feature fold-down center armrests for added comfort. The three-spoke steering wheel faces the driver, and the instrument panel and inner door liners are all in very good order. A column-mounted shifter and a factory AM radio round out the interior, offering a classic and functional touch to the cabin.
For the 1966 model year, changes included a revised grille insert with a coarser mesh, now divided by a bright metal horizontal center bar. Rectangular parking lamps were positioned at the outer ends, and separate rectangular cornering lamps replaced the previous integral grille extension designs. While the amount of chrome was reduced, the DeVille still carried its distinctive crests, V-shaped moldings, and De Ville scripts. Several engineering improvements were introduced this year, including a new perimeter frame for improved ride and handling, newly designed piston and oil rings, and a quieter exhaust system.
This DeVille Convertible also comes with documentation, including the original owner's manual, warranty book, and protect-o-plate, making it even more appealing for collectors.
In 1966, competition for this DeVille included other prestigious convertibles.
For collectors or lovers of American luxury cars, this 1966 DeVille Convertible is a true gem that would make a worthy addition to any collection.
