The motto of the Scout movement is “be prepared.” That can apply to many aspects of classic car ownership, but it can also prove relevant when shopping for such a car. Winter is biting deep, and it wouldn’t seem to be the most logical time to purchase a Convertible. However, you could be like the Scouts and be ready to hit the road in a car like this 1970 Cadillac De Ville Convertible when the warm weather arrives. It is a spotless survivor listed here on eBay in Lakeland, Florida. Bidding has raced to $15,000, although it remains short of the reserve.

Cadillac introduced its Third Generation De Ville in 1965, with the exterior receiving minor facelifts until the Fourth Generation emerged in 1971. Our feature car is from the final production year and is 1-of-15,172 Convertibles. It presents beautifully in its original Code 19 Sable Black. The paint may have a few minor flaws that don’t show in the supplied photos, but there are no glaring problems. A spotless White power top provides a welcome contrast, as do the narrow whitewall tires. Black paint is excellent for revealing panel imperfections, but there are no such problems here. There are no ripples or evidence of previous repairs and no signs of rust. The chrome sparkles brilliantly, and the glass looks flawless.

Cadillac adopted the slogan “Standard of the World” to describe its vehicles, and no company can make such a bold statement without producing cars that demonstrate and reinforce its claim. Therefore, it is no surprise to open the doors of this De Ville to find a wide variety of luxury items. The new owner receives climate-control air conditioning, power windows, leather upholstery, a power front seat, acres of faux walnut trim, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM stereo radio. The only luxury item I can’t spot is cruise control, but maybe I’m not looking hard enough! The interior presentation is excellent for a fifty-two-year-old classic. The only faults worth noting are slight stretching of the driver’s side seat leather and a fitment issue between the lower gauge fascia and the bottom pad left of the steering wheel. Otherwise, there’s no wear, physical damage, or other problems that may cause the new owner sleepless nights.

When a car tips the scales at 4,795lbs, it requires something special under the hood to provide acceptable performance. Cadillac had a history of delivering on that front, with this car’s original 472ci V8 churning out 375hp. The three-speed TH-400 automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes reinforce the car’s luxury credentials. Most buyers were less concerned about their new toy’s outright performance than its relaxed cruising ability. However, this Caddy is no automotive slug with a ¼-mile ET of 15.7 seconds and a top speed of 131mph. There is a price for the owner to pay because this classic’s fuel consumption would struggle to top 8mpg. As a daily driver, it would be impractical, but it would be perfect for a spot of weekend fun. The seller uses the word “amazing” when describing the driving experience, suggesting it is a turnkey classic that needs nothing but a new owner.

Some cars blend into their surrounding with barely a ripple, but classics like this 1970 De Ville Convertible make a bold statement. It has a genuine presence, with its paint and trim combination among the best a buyer could order that year. It needs nothing and would be perfect for a spot of relaxed, warm weather top-down touring. I won’t be surprised if the bidding passes $20,000 before hitting the reserve, although its overall condition might make $30,000 achievable. With values climbing, it could offer a rare combination of classic motoring pleasure and a future financial return. That has to make it worth a closer look.