USA vs USA — 1961 vs 1965
| Continental Convertible | DeVille Convertible | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 340 hp | 340 hp |
| Torque | 485 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,565 cc | 7,030 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.2 sec | 9.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Wheelbase | 3,200 mm | 3,302 mm |
| Length | 5,461 mm | 5,643 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,857 | 19,200 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 5/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible excels in higher top speed, greater rarity, while the 1965 Cadillac DeVille Convertible stands out for quicker acceleration. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Luxury Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible and 1965 Cadillac DeVille Convertible is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible producing 340 hp and the 1965 Cadillac DeVille Convertible delivering 340 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lincoln Continental uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,565 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 10.2 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,857 units built, the 1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible is considerably scarcer than the Cadillac DeVille's 19,200 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.