By the mid-1980s, Cadillac’s sharp-edged Eldorado—introduced for 1979—was approaching the end of its run. A downsized, front-drive successor was slated for 1986, so Cadillac marked the occasion with a tasteful farewell package for 1985: the Commemorative Edition. Rather than chasing performance, the CE leaned into craftsmanship and presentation, celebrating the outgoing body style with unique trim, curated color combinations, and subtle gold accents.

The Commemorative Edition appeared during the 1985 model year as a late-run package and ended with the close of 1985 Eldorado production. It did not carry forward to 1986. Think of it as a capstone—produced only within that final model-year window.

The CE wasn’t a mechanical special; its distinction was visual and interior-focused. Typical cues included:

• Gold-tone scripts and emblems (including wheel cover centers) that read more “celebration” than flash.
• A sail-panel medallion identifying the edition.
• A steering-wheel/horn-pad crest specific to the package.
• Curated colorways, most often seen in Cotillion White or Commodore Blue exteriors with blue and/or white leather cabins, dark blue carpets/dash, and coordinated striping.

Most Commemorative Editions were built on the upscale Biarritz trim, so you’ll often see the stainless-steel roof band and plush interior appointments that defined that name.

They were sold new through Cadillac dealers and carry VIN/label clues to their provenance. For 1985, a small number of CE-themed convertibles were produced alongside the more common CE coupes. Exact counts are not documented publicly; collectors generally agree the CE convertible is significantly rarer than the CE coupe.

Cadillac wasn’t saying goodbye to Eldorado—only to that long-running body. The Commemorative Edition signaled respect for an era that had been both successful and instantly recognizable: a crisp profile, dignified proportions, and the kind of interior luxury that buyers expected from a flagship personal coupe. The CE gave loyal customers a way to purchase a “last-of-the-line” Eldorado that looked and felt special without changing its mechanical formula.

Today, the 1985 Commemorative Edition serves as a time capsule from the final chapter of the classic E-body Eldorado. CE coupes are the most visible, while CE convertibles sit near the top of many collectors’ wish lists due to their scarcity and the visual drama of the open roof combined with the gold-accent details. For enthusiasts building registries or documenting cars, the CE’s specific trim tells a clear story: an elegant bow on a beloved design.

• Badging: “Commemorative” sail-panel medallion; unique horn-pad crest.
• Trim: Gold-tone Cadillac scripts/emblems; gold-background wheel cover centers.
• Colors: Most commonly Cotillion White or Commodore Blue; interiors in dark blue, white, or blue/white two-tone with dark blue dash and carpet.
• Convertible note: 1985 CE convertibles exist but in very small numbers; they are ASC conversions sold through Cadillac dealers.

• “It’s a performance model.”
  No—Commemorative Edition changes were cosmetic/trim-focused, not mechanical.
• “Every 1985 Eldorado with gold emblems is a CE.”
  Not necessarily. Verify sail-panel and horn-pad identifiers and interior/paint combinations.
• “There were thousands of CE convertibles.”
  Unlikely. CE convertibles are understood to be rare; precise figures haven’t been published.
• “The CE continued into 1986.”
  It did not. The package closed with the 1985 body style. 
• “Vinyl or landau top .”
  NO 1985 Commemorative Eldorado’s or  Seville’s had a Landau or Vinyl top . they all came         from the factory with no Landau or Carriage tops. there is NO  RPO code for a top  if a Commemorative car has a Landau or Carriage top it was installed after it was purchased 

We’re building the story of the 1985 Eldorado Commemorative Edition—together. Because Cadillac never released a neat, tidy list, your car’s details help fill in the puzzle. A few minutes from you = better history for everyone.

• Keep the legend alive. Your colors, trim, and options help us map what was really built.
• Help fellow owners. Good info makes it easier to verify and restore these cars.
• Boost your car’s story. A simple listing adds provenance for shows, insurance, and future value.

• Coupe or ASC convertible
• Exterior & interior colors, notable options/RPOs
• VIN (will not be puplic)
• A few photos (badge, horn pad, wheels, and a nice overall shot)
• Any docs you’re comfortable sharing (window sticker, invoice, etc.)

We never post your full VIN or personal info. You choose what’s public. Want changes later? Just ask—we’ll update or remove anytime.

It’s about 4–6 minutes. Grab a couple photos and click below: