Rolls-Royce Corniche

vs

Cadillac DeVille

UK vs USA — 1971 vs 1965

Rolls-Royce Corniche (1971)
Cadillac DeVille (1965)
Specifications
Corniche ConvertibleDeVille Convertible
Horsepower240 hp340 hp
Torque361 lb-ft450 lb-ft
Engine Size6,750 cc7,030 cc
0-60 mph9.6 sec9.5 sec
Top Speed120 mph115 mph
¼ Mile17.0 sec17.0 sec
Wheelbase3,060 mm3,302 mm
Length5,270 mm5,643 mm
Units Produced4,20019,200
Value (Excellent)$200,000$80,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity7/105/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible offers higher top speed, greater rarity, while the 1965 Cadillac DeVille Convertible counters with more power, quicker acceleration, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When UK engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible and 1965 Cadillac DeVille Convertible embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1965 Cadillac DeVille Convertible holds a clear advantage in raw power with 340 hp compared to 240 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rolls-Royce Corniche uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 6,750 cc, while the Cadillac DeVille relies on a V8 OHV with 7,030 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Cadillac DeVille Convertible edges ahead at 9.5 seconds versus 9.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,200 units built, the 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible is considerably scarcer than the Cadillac DeVille's 19,200 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible commands a significant premium over the 1965 Cadillac DeVille Convertible, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.