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Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham – Contemporary Masterpiece

There’s nothing like the traditional full-size Cadillac. From the admiring glances of envy…to the myriad standard comfort and convenience features and accessories – The stately Fleetwood Brougham was considered the most luxurious owner-driven Cadillac in the model hierarchy. Fleetwood-bodied Cadillacs are the epitome of grandeur with a poised dignity which was the hallmark of every traditional Cadillac motorcar.

The 1994 Fleetwood Brougham is endowed with a special type of spirited operation few luxury cars share. It’s the 1993-1996 rear-wheel drive Fleetwood series that is the last of the breed…the end of an illustrious era in motoring. They preclude the traditional luxury sedan which left a void in American automobiles no other luxury car can fill. The majestic 1994 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham presents an encore performance…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

It’s dramatically styled in its beauty and bearing. The formidable Fleetwood Brougham is the motorcar that represents the “Standard of the World” in a majestic fashion only Cadillac could create. These magnificent automobiles are more inspiring to behold and more rewarding to own than any other full-size luxury sedan.

Fleetwood models possess an eloquence and dignity befitting a flagship of its stature. The Brougham augmented the Fleetwood series with elegant appointments and signature features for luxury in the grand Cadillac manner. The 1994 Fleetwood Brougham carried on the tradition with glamour and distinction. Cadillac Fleetwoods remain America’s most aristocratic automobiles.

The gracious proportions of Fleetwood Brougham’s traditionally-inspired architecture evoke thoughts of the days gone by when we had the choice of a ‘real’ full-size luxury sedan…and a Cadillac – all in the same car. Fleetwood Brougham’s tall, extra-wide doors provide easy entry and exit. Sweeping fender lines flow systematically enhancing aerodynamic efficiency…the EPA rated the 1994 Fleetwood Brougham as 25 mpg highway.

Chrome bright work clads the lower body sides which include removable trim that mocks traditional rear-wheel fender skirts – Cadillac Style. Its stately silhouette is augmented by a long nose and short rear end design reminiscent of those fabulous classic Fleetwoods. Most important, Fleetwood Brougham’s engineering places a large sumptuous cabin between its occupants and the road…

The 1994 Fleetwood Brougham goes to great lengths to satisfy the most discerning driver. Its luxury length of 225.1” is even longer than that of the 1994 Lincoln Town Car’s mere 218.9” length. Fleetwood’s wide 78” stance beats the Town Car’s 76.9” width proudly.

Fleetwood Brougham rides upon a long 121.5” wheelbase compared to Town Car’s 117.4” wheelbase. Fleetwood Brougham’s 57.1” height beats that of the Town Car at 56.9”. So you see…the Fleetwood Brougham and its poised dignity is eminently qualified to carry the title of America’s largest production passenger automobile for the 1994 model year – Cadillac Style!

With its full-size luxury, excellent road manners, and Cadillac elegance…the 1994 Fleetwood Brougham is traditional splendor that one had come to expect from the brand. The last of the Fleetwoods are big and beautiful from bumper to bumper. Their substantial body on frame construction is configured as front engine rear-wheel drive – as a true Cadillac should be.

This is General Motors last attempt building full-size cars. The big B/D body used by Chevrolet for the Caprice/Impala SS, Buick for the Roadmaster, and of course Cadillac with the Fleetwood. One advantage to a rear drive car is the ability to move the front wheels forward in its overall design. Placing the front wheels ahead of the engine greatly enhances suspension dynamics which govern stability. The engine doesn’t have to be connected. Drive shaft, rear differential, and rear suspension adds weight to the back of the car. (And NO torque-steer!)

Fleetwood could be compared to a luxurious club room on wheels. Its spacious cloth or leather trimmed cabin was available in two distinctive trim levels. The standard Fleetwood sedan base priced at $33,990 – $34,615 is augmented by the optional “Brougham” luxury package.

The Brougham option upholstered with Prestwick knit cloth was $1680 while the leather trimmed version was $2250. This exclusive luxury package has a different seat cushion sew-style and upgraded appointments than the standard Fleetwood sedan.

The exterior is highlighted with a luxuriously padded vinyl roof treatment with “Brougham” nomenclature affixed to the rear sail panels. This deftly identifies it as Cadillac’s most luxurious owner-driven sedan. No other motorcar in its class can replicate the grandeur and dignity this supreme achievement in motoring offers. Passengers are ensconced in traditional 6-passenger comfort.

There’s room to stretch out with nearly 5′ of shoulder room. It has 38.7” of headroom available for front seat occupants and 39.1” for the rear passenger compartment. Fleetwood Brougham provides 42.5” of front seat legroom and 43.9” for rear seat passengers. Classic “Standard of the World” creations do not have to scream achievement…they simply whisper success. Fleetwood Brougham is renowned for legendary Cadillac comfort and convenience.

And…if Fleetwood Brougham’s spacious dimensions aren’t enough to prove its superiority in the luxury car segment, its impressive list of standard amenities will. Electronic components are bestowed throughout its svelte architecture. All season Electronic Climate Control Air Conditioning maintains optimum cabin comfort year-round. Once the temperature has been set no further intervention is required. This sophisticated system includes rear compartment heating/air conditioning ducts.

Power windows with ‘express down’ feature, power door locks, Cruise Control, Tilt Wheel adjustable steering wheel, and digital instrument cluster are the more basic amenities. For the 1994 model year, Fleetwood Brougham’s signature features include: driver’s memory seat, manual articulating head rests, power triple-element lumbar controls, illuminated rear seat overhead vanity mirrors, heated front seats, rear seat folding center armrest with dual cup holder and storage.

Still undecided? Additional standard amenities include: Twilight Sentinel electronic headlamp control, Solar Ray tinted glass, controlled-cycle windscreen wipers, Illuminated Entry System, Power deck lid release with pull-down feature, illuminated driver and front passenger visor vanity mirrors, power 55/45 6-way front seating w/power 2-way recliners, power heated right and left outside rearview mirrors, Pass Key II theft deterrent system, as well as power assisted steering and brakes.

Brougham’s deep-seated luxury is due in no small part to Cadillac’s patented ‘split frame’ seatback and cushion design. The wide lounge-type seats provide independent adjustment. A new window defog system allows its windscreen to be cleared in cold weather while maintaining heat flow to the lower portion of the cabin. They don’t refer to a Fleetwood Brougham as “The epitome of luxury” for nothing…

What do these two cars have in common?

The 1994 Fleetwood Brougham and the 1994 Chevrolet Corvette share a startling truth. The Cadillac Fleetwood’s power is derived from Corvette’s responsive new 2^nd generation 5.7 litre 16-valve, 350 CID “LT1” V8 engine. Both Cadillac and Corvette versions are built with a cast iron block. The Vette is built with aluminum heads while Cadillac uses cast iron heads. Here’s a Cadillac with the heart of Corvette! The naturally aspirated engine is equipped with electronic sequential-port fuel injection. Dual-platinum tipped spark plugs require no scheduled tune-up for 100,000 miles. (Burn a good grade of premium fuel and you can go a lot farther than the captioned number)

The powerful new V8 is mated to the 460L-E GM Turbo Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift control, overdrive, and torque converter clutch. Engine and transmission are synchronized into a single synchronous power train unit for optimum efficiency. The unique power train combo provides greater horsepower and more torque at lower speeds thus yielding quicker, more confidant acceleration.

The formidable 5.7 litre LT1 cranks 260 hp @ 5,000 rpm with 454 Nm of peak torque @ 2,400 rpm. Longitudinal acceleration is rated as: 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds, 0-100 mph in 22.6 seconds with a top speed in the 142 mph range. Impressive for a luxury sedan huh? It does the ¼ mile @ 88 mph in just 16.1 seconds. These specs are great when taken into consideration, this is a 4,506+ pound sedan.

Fleetwood Brougham’s full-frame construction permits the traditional Cadillac build. The “Magic Carpet Ride” was a signature Cadillac trademark. The 1994 edition uses the same logic. An independent front suspension has heavy-duty short/long arm upper and lower control systems. Brougham’s superior ride quality is further refined with coil springs, deflected-disc shock absorbers, and stabilizer bar.

The rear suspension is Cadillac’s 4-link drive with coil springs and stabilizer bar. Standard, is Cadillac’s exclusive Electronic Level Control that automatically calibrate the car’s ride height to maintain optimum poise under any road or load condition. ASRIIU full-range traction control with throttle relaxer aids its overall operational stability. Also standard is a Bosch ABSIIU three channel anti-lock braking system with power disc brakes fitted to the front axle and power assisted drums fitted to the rear axle.

Many thanks to Jim Hailey!

When one takes into consideration, luxury sedans such as the Fleetwood Brougham and what the brand builds today…it seems as though Cadillac has forgotten its loyal following, the same following that helped catapult the brand to the eminent status of “Standard of the World.”

The full-size Fleetwood was the first choice among bespoke coachbuilders for stretch limousines and professional vehicles of distinction. It was the largest regular passenger production automobile available in America for the genre. When the Fleetwood Brougham ceased production, it left coachbuilders without a traditional-size platform…

Spirited performance is just a tap of the accelerator pedal away. Deep within this elegant sedan beats the heart of a sports car. Corvette’s formidable 5.7 litre LT1 V8 engine assures responsive acceleration with extra power in reserve. Spacious six passenger accommodations, myriad standard comfort/convenience features and accessories, and that inherent Cadillac-Style makes the majestic Fleetwood Brougham a rare commodity in today’s mass-production euphoria. The bottom line: “Life’s not a cabaret…it’s a Hallmark card.” The 1994 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham is another successful chapter…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

1941 Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special

1956 Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special

1964 Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special

1970 Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham

1976 Fleetwood Talisman

1994 Fleetwood Brougham

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Cadillac: The Standard of the Entire World

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical, Classic American Marques, Editorials, Extreme Luxury, Grande Marque, Luxury Sedans, Notorious Retrospect, Requiem For A Legend with tags "As the Standard of the World Turns", American Luxury Cars, Bill Mitchell, Cadillac, Cadillac Historical, Cadillac: The Standard of the Entire World, Classic Cadillac, DeVille, Eldorado, Extreme Luxury, Fisher Body, Fleetwood, Fleetwood Brougham, Fleetwood Metal Body Co, Fleetwood Series Seventy-Five, Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special, General Motors, Harley Earl, NotoriousLuxury, Series 62 Coupe deVille, Series 62 Sedan deVille, Series 70 Eldorado Brougham on October 18, 2015 by 99MilesPerHour

…Automotive milestones

…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Theodore MacManus wrote in his famous “The Penalty of Leadership” advertisement: “That which is good or great makes itself known, no matter how loud the clamor of denial.” Cadillac prowess in the luxury car arena made headlines all over the world. From the massive V16 and V12 powerplants to the modern V8 engines…Cadillac was the master builder of the luxury automobile.

Fisher Body, Harley Earl, Bill Mitchell, and a host of other talent made the brand the undisputed “Standard of the World”…in the entire world. Will the brand ever stop chasing everything that moves in Europe…and return to being the pride of the USA and the envy of the world? NotoriousLuxury retros back to the days when Cadillac reigned supreme…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

There was a time when Cadillac had no product recalls…they even sold without advertising. Cadillac was recognized as the luxury leader world-wide. The mere mention of “Cadillac” had the competition in a nervous frenzy. The brand had absolutely no interest comparing itself to European brands simply because the European brands were taking notes from Cadillac success!

The “Standard of the World” was the innovator displaying engineering prowess with outstanding fit & finish. Cadillac couldn’t have cared less about achieving 0-60 mph in a nanosecond, nor was it trying to compete in every automotive class – a Cadillac was a luxury car…period. Cadillac has since forgotten all of its loyal following that made it the “Standard of the World.”

1976 Cadillac Coupe deVille

The Cadillac name was synonymous with luxury, prestige, and quality. The association was that of superlative status such as the Cadillac of appliances…the Cadillac of electronics; this meant the product or service was the best in its industry. And of course…the Cadillac of automobiles was the one and only “Standard of the World.” It was everyone’s dream car…the envy of the driveway.

The mere sight of a big, shiny, classy Cadillac sent shock waves throughout the entire automotive industry. The exclusivity and supremacy made quite a statement about its owner. A Cadillac was a supreme achievement in motoring…I used to polish mine for hours upon end to a glassy mirror-like reflection that was so shiny, my girlfriends used to apply their make-up using my Cadillacs as a mirror! Those were the good old days.

Once seated behind the wheel…a turn of the ignition key brought the powerful V8 engine to life…it didn’t roar its existence – it whispered its presence. The transmission engaged imperceptibly…the steering was light as a feather…I could turn the steering wheel with one finger action.

Once the ride was under way, boulevard travel intrusion was negligible…a Cadillac managed the roughest pavement with ease. There was nothing else on the road quite like it. In fact, there was no more magnificent manner in which to view the world than from behind the wheel of the “Standard of the World.” Its presence enhanced any occasion…its eminence never went unnoticed –

Not many truly understand this automobile’s illustrious heritage. Let’s take a look into the history of the “Standard of the World.” The brand was established in 1899 as The Detroit Auto Company. It was the first venture of its type in Detroit. It was struggling to survive; the company floundered and was dissolved in January 1901 after only 20 vehicles were built.

The company was reorganized on November 20, 1901 as The Henry Ford Company. Henry ran the company for three weeks then resigned to move on to other endeavors. Henry Martyn Leland, a reserved traditional entrepreneur, reorganized the venture and the company was renamed after Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, the founder of the city of Detroit. The Cadillac Model A was introduced in 1903.

The brand did not spring forth as the “Standard of the World.” This formidable title was garnered through evolution and dedication to quality. It’s an American success story that unfortunately has a not so happy ending. To regain the illustrious title the brand must cease and desist with the kitschy-faux, make-believe unreasonable facsimiles and build real luxury automobiles once again –

1904 Cadillac Model B Touring

1908 Cadillac Model S

1913 Cadillac Model 30

1918 Cadillac Model 57 Raceabout

Fisher Body, the coachbuilder for GM was founded in 1908 by Fred and Charles Fisher of the famous Fisher brothers in Detroit, Michigan. It all began here in Ohio in the beautiful area of Norwalk in the late 1800s building horse-drawn carriages. The transition became necessary because the internal combustion engine and its torque created way too much vibration and the bodies of the horse-drawn units couldn’t withstand the forces.

Before Fisher Body became a company, the Fisher brothers built bodies for Cadillac. By 1910, Fisher Body became the supplier of all closed bodies for Cadillac. They also built bodies for Buick, Abbot, Chevrolet, Oldsmobile, Packard, Studebaker…even Ford. By 1913 Fisher Body had the capacity to build 100,000 bodies per year. This success caused the company to expand into Canada right across the lake from Detroit. By 1914 they grew becoming the world’s largest manufacturer of automobile bodies.

In 1916 Larry Fisher joined the company placing emphasis on the Cadillac brand. He wanted exclusivity for the brand. Fisher Body developed the art of interchangeability of wood body parts. They created precision wood working tools, thus, increasing production output. The company became The Fisher Body Corporation in 1916 with the capacity to build 370,000 bodies per year. Larry Fisher became general manager from 1925 until 1934. He oversaw the purchase of The Fleetwood Metal Body Company of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania in 1925.

Cadillac was the first American car in 1914 to introduce a V-type water-cooled 8 cylinder engine and was also the first to use a thermostatic controlled cooling system. In 1920 the Clark Avenue plant was built in Detroit, Michigan and was the most modern facility in the entire industry. In 1922 Cadillac introduced a thermostatic carburetor control for efficiency. For the 1923 model year Cadillac was the first in the industry to build the inherently balanced V8 engine with a compensated crankshaft…and a four-wheel braking system.

Cadillac was the first in the industry in 1926 to offer a comprehensive service policy on a nationwide basis. In 1928 Cadillac developed the clashless synchromesh transmission that eliminated the chafing noise and friction of gear shifting, thus, laying the foundation for the first fully automatic transmission called the Hydra-Matic in 1941 which eliminated the clutch and manual shifting. In 1929 chrome plated accessories were standard.

1930 Cadillac Model 452 V16

1930 V16 Roadsters were the world’s most luxurious cars

1930 Cadillac V16 Phaeton

After the stock market crash in the 1920s with The Great Depression, GM never lost money due to its diversity under the leadership of Larry Fisher. Fisher Body was an innovator in the industry. They introduced car window regulators to raise and lower windows, closed bodies offering year round comfort wet or dry…rain or snow, and many other features automakers take for granted today. The Fishers turned a $1,000 investment from Fred’s sister into a multi-million dollar company a few years later. In 1919 General Motors paid $27.6 Million USD for 60 percent of Fisher Body, and in 1926 GM paid another $208 Million USD for the remaining 40 percent of Fisher Body.

And in case you didn’t know…Cadillac was a pioneer in the automotive industry. Cadillac luxury and elegance are prominent attributes but innovation and engineering prowess were paramount. Cadillac introduced many firsts to the automotive industry. It is the only ‘foreign’ automobile to win the coveted Dewar Trophy from the Royal Automobile Club of Great Britain…not once…but twice. In 1908 Cadillac won for introducing standardization and interchangeability of parts. In 1912 it won for introducing the Delco electric lighting and ignition system. In 1905 Cadillac was the first to offer a multi-cylinder engine. In 1910 it was the first auto manufacturer to offer closed bodies as standard equipment. For the 1911 model year the illustrious Fleetwood hand-crafted coachwork made its grand entrance.

This is one of Cadillac’s coupé body designs from 1930-1932

1931 Cadillac V12

1933 Fleetwood-bodied V16

1936 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 90

Next…enter Harley Earl. He created Cadillac works of art. Harley Earl initiated the process of freeform sketching and hand sculpture techniques. His “concept car” theory is still used today for the design process. He was discovered by Larry Fisher who was intrigued by Earl’s concept car and clay model processes. Harley Earl’s methodology was far ahead of its time. The comradery began in 1927 when Fisher commissioned Harley Earl to design the 1927 LaSalle which was to be a companion entry-level car for Cadillac.

Harley Earl was named the first director of GM’s Art & Colour Section which was an in-house design studio and is an industry first, established December 15, 1935. Earl’s legendary techniques were a shock to conservatives at General Motors. He brought luxurious style to Cadillac…just what Larry Fisher wanted. Before the Art & Colour Section, there really wasn’t a great importance to how an auto body looked. By 1937 The Art & Colour Section was renamed “The Styling Section” and Harley Earl was named vice president. This is the first time in automotive history that a designer became a VP of a large corporation.

1936 Cadillac V16 Series 90 Town Cabriolet

The big news was the ultimate automobile powerplants introduced in 1930. The massive 16 and 12 cylinder engines, both V-types…made Cadillac the first auto manufacturer to offer a complete line of multi-cylinder automobiles. Cadillac introduced the hydraulic valve silencers the same year; Cadillac was the master builder for multi-cylinder engines.

This made the competition appear dated – placing the competitors even further behind…for the 1932 model year Cadillac introduced safety headlamps, an air-cooled generator, a completely silent transmission, and full-range ride regulator. And you thought Cadillac was merely a luxury car…Cadillac was the engineering leader…it “started the dance” the rest of the auto industry followed in subservience…especially European luxury “wannabes.”

1936 Cadillac Series 70 V8 coupé

1936 Cadillac V16 Convertible coupé

1939 Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special with body by Derham

1940 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special

The glamour of a Cadillac was second to none. There was style…grace…and the poised dignity which was the hallmark of every Cadillac. It used to be the luxury car enjoyed by more luxury car buyers than any other brand. These resplendent automobiles were an ultra-exclusive realm of motoring majesty. Now…enter Bill Mitchell, a bright and talented advertising illustrator.

Harley Earl recruited him to join the GM Art & Colour Section in 1935. Bill Mitchell designed the fabulous Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special. He influenced the design of over 72.5 million GM automobiles. Some of his monumental designs include the 1955-1957 Chevy Bel Air, the 1961-1976 Corvette Stingray, the 1963 Buick Riviera, and the 1975-1979 Cadillac Seville. Bill Mitchell eventually became the VP of Design for GM.

Beginning the 1934 model year, Cadillac was the first to begin stream lining the coachwork…the spare tire was now concealed within the body. The 1936 model year is another important milestone year. Bill Mitchell designed the Fleetwood-bodied Series Sixty-Special. This car revolutionized luxury automobiles. It was the first car to use fender mounted headlamps when everyone else attached them to the hood.

The elegant Series Sixty-Special was sans running boards which was shocking at the time. It had a faired-in rear deck lid, thin door posts, and chrome banded window frames which became Fleetwood signature features for many years. A hydraulic braking system was also introduced by Cadillac in 1936 as a first to the industry. The Sixty-Special was released for the 1938 model year; its design was copied by the rest of the auto industry. This milestone vehicle made everything on the road appear outmoded. This car influenced automotive design for an entire generation.

For the 1940 model year, Cadillac was the first to introduce an ultra-modern large, luxurious motorcar to the industry known as the Fleetwood Series Seventy-Two. It was similar to the Fleetwood Series Seventy-Five but is 3″ shorter. It rides upon a long 138″ wheelbase. The Fleetwood Series Seventy-Two is powered by a 346 CID V8 engine that produces 140 hp.

The Fleetwood Series Seventy-Two uses a 3-speed manual transmission and is equipped with a four-wheel hydraulic braking system. This is the only year it was produced and only 18 were built. 1940 introduced the first ball bearing steering system making these large vehicles easier to maneuver.

1941 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special

1941 Cadillac Series 62 coupé

1947 Cadillac Series 62 convertible coupé

1948 Cadillac Series 62 convertible

Harley Earl’s first monumental design is the 1948 Cadillac. This is the birth of the iconic Cadillac tail fin. The Lockheed P-38 was the inspiration. During this genre, air craft and space rockets dominated the designers’ imagination for automotive design. The tail fin wars of the 1950s were instigated by Harley Earl and Chrysler’s chief designer Virgil Exner. Tail fin mania spread like wildfire throughout the industry. The greatest engineering achievement in 45 years was Cadillac’s new compact…more economical and smoother operating overhead valve V8 engine for the 1948 model year.

Harley Earl and Alfred P. Sloan, GM’s president at the time developed the annual model change implemented as “Dynamic Obsolescence.” This associated model identity to a specific year for product success. This principle is used in the marketing strategies today. Harley Earl is the pioneer of using clay models to evolve various body components. He is the first designer to create complete automobiles; blending the main body structure with hoods, fenders, lights, and trim to enhance styling continuity. The rest of the auto industry scrambled to adopt this theory.

1949 Cadillac Series 62 Coupe deVille

Public acceptance was important to Harley Earl. It was his fabulous idea that led to the formidable GM Motoramas. Between 1949 and 1961 these glitzy, glamorous extravaganzas showcased notorious conceptual designs aimed at public reaction. Comments were taken seriously and used towards production models. Harley Earl designed the pillarless hardtop design which was the first of its kind in the automotive industry.

He ordered the two-door hardtop design into production as the very first Coupe deVille for the 1949 model year. Earl visited Italy and after seeing a Lancia sedan sans “B” pillars…he introduced the hardtop Sedan deVille for the 1956 model year for luxury car buyers that wanted a pillarless four-door configuration. The Orleans four-door hardtop sedan was a concept car that debuted at the 1953 Motorama which appealed to customers and spawned the Sedan deVille. The DeVille series is among the longest and most successful production runs in the history of the brand. They earned the title as “America’s favorite luxury cars.”

The Coupe deVille mocked a convertible with chrome roof bows

1949 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special

1949 Cadillac Series 62 convertible

1950 Cadillac Series 62 convertible

1953 Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado convertible

Cadillac even outdid itself for the 1953 model year slapping the competition with the highest horsepower V8 engine to power a domestic production vehicle with an astounding 220 hp in the magnificent limited edition Series 62 Eldorado convertible…a Harley Earl masterwork! The 1953 Cadillac Eldorado is an exclusive trim option package for the Series 62 and the image car for General Motors. It was also the most expensive model at $7,750…you could have purchased two Cadillacs for this price.

Distinctive signature features which set it apart from the stock convertible are a wrap-around panoramic windscreen, a sculpted beltline that incorporates a cupid’s bow in its design, a sleek metal parade boot, and Kelsey-Hayes genuine wire-laced wheels. Only 532 were built making it highly sought by collectors world-wide today. They now sell for six figures…that is if you can find one for sale – Harley Earl’s legend will live on forever. He and Bill Mitchell made Cadillac the quintessential luxury icon.

Cadillac was into stock car racing, 1955 Series 62 coupé shown

1955 Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado convertible

1956 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Seventy-Five limousine

1956 Cadillac Series 62 Sedan deVille

The pillarless hardtop Sedan deVille became an instant success

1958 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Seventy-Five limousine

1957-1958 Series 70 Eldorado Brougham

The last of Harley Earl’s masterpiece designs is the magnificent 1957-1958 Series 70 Eldorado Broughams. This is the most spectacular Cadillac motorcar of the 1950s. Its sheet metal wasn’t shared with any other Cadillac. The Eldorado Brougham was one of the world’s most expensive cars at the time selling at $13,074. Understated luxury from bumper to bumper with a custom appearance makes this automobile totally unique for the genre. Harley Earl designed some of the most significant Cadillacs of all time. He retired at age 65 in 1958 shortly after directing the design of the iconic 1959 Cadillacs. By this time, General Motors had become the largest corporation in the world.

The iconic tail fin from the 1959 Cadillac

1959 Cadillac Series 62 “Flat Top” hardtop sedan

1959 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible

1960 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible

For the 1960s, Bill Mitchell promoted what he called the “Sheer Look.” It was an aerodynamic design that is sleeker and more contemporary. He broke away from the designs of Harley Earl with his own interpretations of what a luxury car should be. The designs under his direction are noted as the “Bill Mitchell Era.”

He gave GM vehicles a more conservative, streamlined look. His restrained use of ornamentation, less chrome, and the elimination of tail fins instituted an understatement which made these automobiles timeless challenging the years gracefully. Mitchell’s last accomplishments are the radically down-sized Cadillacs for the 1977 model year. Both Bill Mitchell and Harley Earl left an indelible impression on the automotive industry.

1960 Cadillac Series 62 convertible

Cadillac was still a heart-throb with its “Sheer Look”

The 1967 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado with front-wheel drive is the world’s finest personal luxury automobile. It successfully combined the traction of front-wheel drive, maintained perfect poise with Automatic Level Control, and the maneuverability of Variable Ratio Power Steering…all as standard equipment. This car gangster-slapped the industry big-time!

1971 Cadillac Coupe deVille

The Bill Mitchell Era exemplified Cadillac luxury and distinction to new heights in exclusivity and supremacy. This elegant era in luxury motoring was augmented by “Cadillac-Style!” Bill Mitchell had the entire industry “nervous.” Each time the competition ‘thought’ they had caught up with Cadillac-Style…Bill Mitchell bitch-slapped them with something more intriguing…with an attitude –

1972 Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham

Cadillac pioneered many features and accessories the auto industry takes for granted. I could go on and on with praise for the brand’s outstanding automotive achievement. The 1960s and 1970s were equally as innovative…but something happened during the mid to late 1970s. The music stopped for Cadillac in the 1980s – it became adulterated with so many generic shortcuts which made it a mere hodgepodge of GM parts adorned with Cadillac nomenclature. Quality, fit & finish came to an abrupt halt. Its styling became nondescript and austere.

And as the years went by, it began chasing/emulating anything that moved from Europe. It has become too many things: a jack of all trades and a master of none. Its luxurious demeanor has become diluted to the point of kitsch. All models are recalled annually because of defects and short-sighted engineering. It is no longer a real luxury car…it masquerades as everything. In order to regain its stature, it must cease and desist with the intent of trying to be all things competing in areas which it should not.

Cadillac was snob wagon supreme…formidable in its existence, causing the competition to take note. The entire world waits with bated-breath for the supremacy and exclusivity once presented by Cadillac to dominate the industry and once again become the pride of the USA and the envy of the world. This is another NOTORIOUS flashback…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

1973 Cadillac Coupe deVille

“GM mark of excellence…”

1975 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham

1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Castilian Estate wagon

1990-1992 Cadillac Brougham

Brougham d’Elegance interior

Special thanks to the best caretakers in the classic car business: Daniel Schmitt Classic Cars, Jim Hailey’s Classic cars, Matt Garrett/GM Classics, MJC Classic Cars, Liberty Old Timers, Bob Adams Classic Cars, and Park Ward Motors Museum.

Will there ever be another “Standard of the World” creation?

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“As the Standard of the World Turns”

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Cadillac: The Standard of Excellence

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical, Classic American Marques, Editorials, Extreme Luxury, Grande Marque, Luxury Sedans with tags "As the Standard of the World Turns", Brougham, Cadillac, Cadillac Brougham, Cadillac Convertible, Cadillac Style, Classic Cadillac, Coupe deVille, DeVille, Eldorado, Fleetwood, Fleetwood Brougham, Limousine, luxury cars, Luxury Sedans, NotoriousLuxury, Sedan deVille on September 27, 2015 by 99MilesPerHour

A tribute to the traditional Cadillac

…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Cadillac was once a formidable brand in the automotive industry. It was the standard of excellence in every aspect…superb fit & finish, remarkable engineering, absolute power…and prestige beyond belief world-wide. No automobile in the world achieved the admiration and respect as a Cadillac. Whatever one desired in a high-end luxury automobile…Cadillac either offered it or was in the process of building it. Always the innovator…always the epitome of luxury…and always the leader!

Fleetwood-bodied, hand-crafted automobiles catapulted the brand to an even higher standard of automotive excellence. The Cadillac DeVilles were and remain America’s favorite luxury cars. The formidable Eldorado had the entire industry in awe…with its poised dignity which was the hallmark of every Cadillac. Whether one chose the elegant open tourer, a spacious four-door sedan, the personal luxury of a two-door hardtop coupé, or a luxurious limousine…Cadillac designed and built the industry’s finest. NotoriousLuxury rekindles the passion of this lost art… in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

The Cadillac crest

1963 Cadillac crest

The famous insignia that adorns the legend is a coat of arms from the French de la Mothe Cadillac family. It was registered as an American trademark on August 6, 1906. In the language of ancient heraldry it’s described as: “Quarterly, the first and fourth gold…a fess sable between three Merlettes of the same – posed two in chief and one in base. Second and third gules quartering argent…three bars azure.”

What does this mean? Translated, it describes a quartered shield with the uppermost left and lower right corners gold containing black bands with two legless birds above and one below the band. The uppermost right and lower left corners contain two red quarters, and two silver quarters with blue bars. The “couronne” or coronet is for the six counts of France. For symmetry, the original de la Mothe Cadillac family arms and the trademark of 1906 contain seven round pearls. Evolution of the crest through the years has displayed as many as 18 but no less than seven.

1941 Cadillac crest

1955 Cadillac crest

The first and fourth quarters represent the de la Mothe arms. The Merlettes are ancient heraldic adaptations of the Martin and are shown without beaks and legs. The Merlettes are given for a difference to young brothers to signify, in order to raise themselves they are to look to the wings of virtue and merit; and not to rely on the legs having but little land to set their feet upon. The second and third quarters were added to the de la Mothe arms to signify the favorable marriage which increased their estates. The red stands for prowess and boldness in action…the silver for purity, charity, virtue, and plenty. The azure blue signifies knightly valor –

Fleetwood laurel wreath and Cadillac crest

The laurel wreath augmenting the crest was used for Fleetwood…the senior most models in the hierarchy. DeVilles, Calais, and Series 62 models used a prominent “V” under the crest in either gold or silver. Contemporary Cadillac models use an abstract interpretation of this legendary design. Some agree this new design separates the make-believe Cadillacs from the genuine “Standard of the World” editions…

1965 Cadillac crest

1974 Cadillac DeVille crest

The formidable fins –

1948

1949

Cadillac’s chief designer Harley Earl “started the dance” of which the entire automotive industry followed suit. This man designed Cadillac masterworks. It was his 1948 Cadillac creation that started it all – he designed the 1948-1949 Cadillacs patterned after the Lockheed P-38 war-time aircraft.

The beautifully tailored fins are artfully integrated into the rear fenders. These are separate bolt-on features which flow gracefully into the doors. Within a few years, tail fins sprouted in every division at GM…not to mention how the rest of the industry emulated but could not replicate the design. Harley Earl and Chrysler’s chief designer Virgil Exner instigated the “Tail Fin Wars” of the 1950s.

1952

1953

The next tail fin design appeared on the 1950-1953 Cadillacs. They have the same basic style only a bit more elegant and refined. Back-up lamps were moved from below the rear deck lid and repositioned beneath the taillamps for the 1951 model. Cadillac is one of the early pioneers of back-up lamps. The basic theme of the taillamp/back-up lamp combo ran through the 1956 model year designs.

1954

1955

1956

The 1954 model year introduced a higher tail fin to offset the overall lower silhouette. Cadillacs were redesigned to be longer, lower, and wider than previous models. The fins are more “kicked-up.” This is the most remembered style establishing Cadillac as the tail fin leader. This design went basically unchanged from 1954 until 1956. Cadillac didn’t redesign their offerings from a blinding flash of inspiration…change was evolutionary. The 1955 Eldorado sported its own unique shark-fin design which inspired the next model year for the standard Cadillac.

1955-1956 Eldorado

1957

1957-1958 Eldorado “Chipmunk-Cheeks”

For the 1957 model year the tail fins were completely redesigned for the standard Cadillac models. They are a modified version from the 1955 Eldorado. The fins are lower and tapered into the architecture fashionably. The 1957 Eldorados received their own distinctive tail fin redesign. They are a bit sharper and more prominent than the previous version.

Rounded faired-in fenders received the nickname “Chipmunk-Cheeks” because of the appearance for the rear-end design of the Eldorados. The 1957-1958 Eldorado Seville and Biarritz used their new design; however, this was not inherited by any other Cadillac models. The 1957-1958 Cadillacs sported an even lower silhouette than previous designs. Automobiles were becoming more streamlined…Cadillac led the way in the entire industry with elegant designs, impeccable craftsmanship, and that poised dignity which was the hallmark of every Cadillac.

1958

1957-1958 Series 70 Eldorado Brougham

1959

Tail fin drama continued. The tail fin shocker came with the 1959 redesign. The iconic 1959 Cadillac tail fins are the tallest and the largest in the industry. All Cadillac models shared the same design. They represent American excess to the hilt. Either you love ‘em or you hate ‘em…there is no in-between. Some say they are the summit of gaudiness…some say they are elegant, and then there are some who are undecided. Because of this controversy – 1959 Cadillacs especially Eldorados, fetch six figures easily on the auction block.

1960

1961

1962

Refinement for the mighty tail fin began the 1960 model year. The designers knocked them down a notch planing them into the architecture for a cleaner look. The restrained use of ornamentation also provided an understatement of Cadillac elegance. From 1960 onward, the tail fin began to disappear into oblivion. The 1961 model trimmed the fins tastefully and added lower fins called “Skegs” to the redesign. They were trimmed again for the 1962 model year. The finale for the beloved fins are the 1963-1964 model years. They disappeared completely for the all-new 1965 redesign. Cadillac will always be remembered for luxury, opulence, and tail fins!

1963

1964

1965…tail fins are banished into history

1966

1967 Calais, DeVille, and Fleetwood

1967-1969 Fleetwood Eldorado

1968 Calais, DeVille, and Fleetwood

1969 Calais, DeVille, and Fleetwood

1970 Calais, DeVille, and Fleetwood

1970 Fleetwood Eldorado

1971-1972 Calais, DeVille, and Fleetwood

1971-1972 Fleetwood Eldorado

1973 Calais, DeVille, and Fleetwood

1973 Eldorado

1974-1976 Calais, DeVille, and Fleetwood

1974-1976 Eldorado

1977-1978 Eldorado

The luxury of choice

The traditional Cadillac offered more body styles than any other luxury car manufacturer. There is no more romantic architecture than a Cadillac convertible. They are the glamour cars of the stars. The elegant open tourers are still the most desired convertibles in the entire world. These elegant Cadillac creations have inspired music by Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley with “Pink Cadillac.” They have inspired movies such as “The Solid Gold Cadillac” with Judy Holiday in 1954. They were also used in parades such as the very first Cadillac Eldorado of 1953 driven in the inaugural parade for Dwight D. Eisenhower.

And we cannot forget the 1973 Eldorado convertible pace car for the 57th 500 Mile International Sweepstakes held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Wednesday May 30, 1973. There is no more dramatic manner in which to travel Cadillac-style than open air motoring in an elegant Cadillac convertible coupé. Whether it be the classic Series 62…the classic DeVille…or the “Gilded One” it is the ONLY way to travel…Cadillac-style –

1959 Series 62 convertible

1957 Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special

The most distinguished automobiles in all of motordom are the impeccably hand-crafted Fleetwood-bodied Cadillacs. This is luxury on the grand Cadillac scale…in the grand Cadillac manner. These most revered models are more than austere, ostentatious bling as today’s kitschy-faux make-believe luxury cars. The Fleetwood-bodied Cadillacs are the most luxurious owner and chauffeur-driven models in the history of the brand. All Fleetwood crafted cars were built on their own dedicated assembly lines. Their individually longer wheelbases provide more rear seat passenger room.

The magnificent Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Broughams are decadently luxurious with ultra-exclusive accommodations that offer limousine-style luxury in an owner-driven sedan. It is the Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special that reinforced the “Standard of the World” title. Unfortunately…there will never, ever, be another hand-crafted Cadillac Fleetwood…they epitomized the brand’s integrity as the finest automobiles on the planet. No car in the luxury automobile arena could have been made more personally yours than a Cadillac Fleetwood. Will there ever be another LUXURIOUS Cadillac to be the pride of the US…and the envy of the world?

1959 Fleetwood Series Seventy-Five

The most eloquent sedans in the world are the Cadillac Fleetwood Series Seventy-Five nine-passenger sedan and Imperial formal limousine. Executive-style grace with spacious accommodations is expedited in a refined and most dignified manner. This is the ultimate expression of the “Standard of the World.” These opulent sedans are still seen at foreign embassies, palaces, and in the driveways of luxurious estates. Some things are just too good to be forgotten.

These hand-crafted Fleetwood-bodied masterpieces will still be in service…when today’s make-believe luxury cars are rusting in peace at the local scrap yard. Cadillac commercial chassis were popular as ambulances during the 1950s throughout the 1970s because of their notorious reliability and high-speed capabilities. They were also built as hearses of the utmost dignity. Some mortuaries still have them in service just because…there is nothing in today’s market that even comes close to the poised dignity that was the hallmark of every traditional Cadillac Fleetwood –

1976 Fleetwood Series Seventy-Five

Good taste never goes out of style…

1970 Coupe deVille

America’s sweethearts –

The Cadillac DeVille remains America’s favorite luxury car. They are available as the Coupe deVille, Sedan deVille, and the DeVille convertible. They enjoyed the highest resale value and repeat ownership of any American-built luxury car. The elegant Coupe deVille and Sedan deVille sold more automobiles than the combined aggregate totals of the competitors.

The Cadillac DeVille ruled the industry from 1949 until the 2004 model year when it became the DTS; maintaining the poised dignity Cadillac invented. The Cadillac DeVilles are among the most successful and longest production runs in the history of the brand. Their preeminence in the luxury car arena is achieved through years of growth and innovation. These elegant motorcars stole the hearts of enthusiasts world-wide in one svelte swoop.

1976 Sedan deVille

Their six-passenger roominess combined with legendary Cadillac comfort and conveniences are what retained their following annually. They are smooth, responsive, and quiet beyond belief. The Coupe deVille is the only two-door luxury car that offers as much interior room as the competitor’s four-door sedan. It was the primary choice among the ladies with its intimate personal luxury and high style. Features and accessories were available to make it as unique as its driver.

The Sedan deVille is the luxury sedan that doubles as a family sedan. With its four-door convenience, it is like your own personal limousine. It was the perennial favorite among luxury car buyers. The Sedan deVille offered more comfort and convenience features and accessories as standard equipment than its competition. Open air touring with a youthful zest makes the DeVille convertible the number one choice among convertible lovers. Its fully automatic, power folding fabric roof disappeared at the touch of a button. The DeVille is the grandest of all open tourers…Cadillac-style. Its luxury has no peer. The Cadillac DeVille was the only luxury convertible built in the land at the time. It is one of the world’s most dramatic automobiles.

1970 DeVille convertible

1976 Eldorado convertible

No story regarding Cadillac could be complete without mention of “The Gilded One.” The totally avant-garde Eldorado was the Flagship from Cadillac the entire world will never forget. They became the most dramatic models in the history of the brand. Elegance, innovation, and engineering excellence made them one of the world’s most desired dream cars. The Eldorado introduced styling, features, and accessories that eventually found their way to other future models.

The superb Cadillac engineering, advanced design and dedication to excellence spawned the formidable 1967 Fleetwood Eldorado. It is the ultimate personal luxury automobile. The Fleetwood Eldorado is the only car in the world to successfully combine the positive traction of front-wheel drive, the agility of Variable Ratio Power Steering, and the perfect balance of Automatic Level Control. During its tenure, the Cadillac Eldorado was available as a convertible coupé, a two-door hardtop coupé, and an ultra-luxurious four-door hardtop sedan. They were the glamour cars of the 1950s through the 1970s…and remain so –

1956 Series 62 convertible

The traditional Cadillac was the most desired automobile in the entire world. It was the standard of excellence and second to none in the manufacture of luxury motorcars. It is a legend, and an American institution. A Fleetwood-bodied Cadillac is a hand-crafted masterpiece from the master craftsmen that garnered the title of the “Standard of the World.” The DeVilles remain America’s favorite luxury cars in every respect. The Eldorado began as the Flagship and evolved into the finest personal luxury car in the world. Cadillac had a luxury car for every luxury car buyer…whether coupé, convertible coupé, sedan, or an opulent limousine – the only way to travel…was Cadillac-style. NotoriousLuxury salutes the traditional Cadillac…in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Special thanks to the finest classic automobile dealers in the business: Daniel Schmitt Classic Cars, Bob Adams Classic Cars, Jim Hailey’s Classic Cars, MJC Classic Cars, Park Ward Motors Museum, and Matt Garrett & GM Classics. You are the best in the industry!

“As the Standard of the World Turns”

NotoriousLuxury IS Greg’s World…

1970 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1970 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham, Brougham, Cadillac Fleetwood, Classic Cadillac, Fleetwood Brougham, NotoriousLuxury on February 15, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

“Craftsmanship a creed….accuracy a law”

The Fleetwood Brougham had to be seen to be believed….driven to be appreciated….and owned for total satisfaction. The 1970 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham was the unexpected economy car…it precluded the restless quest for something finer to replace it with….

The Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham was Cadillac’s most luxurious owner-driven sedan. It was the absolute epitome of Cadillac luxury and elegance. The pinnacle of eloquence with the formidable Fleetwood touch… unparalleled distinction on the grand Cadillac scale….in the grand Cadillac manner. The 1970 Fleetwood Brougham was immediately identified in any gathering of fine automobiles. A Fleetwood was the very essence of the Cadillac brand.

The Spirited Seventies were no more magnificently stated than in the majestic 1970 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty Special Brougham. The eminent Fleetwood series was rich in taste….rich in elegance….it was the “d’Elegance” of the brand. A Fleetwood-bodied Cadillac was the epitome of Cadillac luxury with unparalleled splendor. Fleetwood coachcrafted Cadillacs were built at a restricted pace for exclusivity. There was no more resplendent way to travel than viewing the world from behind the wheel of the 1970 Cadillacs. The Fleetwood Brougham was special even among Cadillacs. Here is another standing ovation….in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Model # 70-68169-P Fleetwood Brougham sedan had a base price of $7,284. Only 16,913 were made which will make this a highly prized collectible. It is a sleeper, all 1970 Cadillacs are going to hit a certain time frame and catapult in value, especially the 1970 DeVille ragtop. The Fleetwood Brougham was the most elegant expression of the Spirited Seventies.

With its individually longer wheelbase of 133”, it had a uniquely regal stature. No other motorcar received the admiration accorded this supreme achievement in motoring. A Fleetwood-bodied Cadillac was luxury on the grand Cadillac scale. The 1970 Fleetwood Brougham maintained a poised dignity that was the hallmark of every Cadillac. The Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special was long respected among connoisseurs of fine automobiles.

The Fleetwood Brougham with its distinctive beauty, had a tastefully appointed interior of incomparable elegance and luxury. Rich Dumbarton cloth with leather was available in three colors. A sophisticated all Divan cloth selection in four colors, and of course, richly textured Sierra grain leather was available in seven colors. The Brougham featured the rich look of Oriental Tamo wood on the doors and instrument panel. Signature Brougham features included carpeted rear seat footrests, adjustable rear seat reading lamps, and a 60/40 Dual Comfort front seat. Exterior augmentation included a fully padded vinyl roof with “Brougham” nomenclature. This impeccably tailored interior by Fleetwood was crafted in the traditional Cadillac “d’Elegance” if you catch my extremely heavy drift….

Standard features for the 1970 Fleetwood Brougham included: power windows and driver’s seat, folding center armrests front and rear, Variable Ratio power steering, Automatic Level Control, and 3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic Drive. A host of other features and accessories that catered to one’s quest for “d’Elegance”……The spacious interior rewarded the occupants with lavish appointments, plush fabrics, and thoughtful niceties that were “Cadillac-style” along with myriad options available to add further distinction and individuality to this supreme achievement in all of motordom.

Brougham signature features: carpeted rear seat footrests

Fleetwood Brougham’s adjustable rear seat reading lamps

The dramatic elegance and majesty of the 1970 Fleetwood Brougham also offered astonishing performance for a motorcar of such magnificence. It was powered by Cadillac’s formidable 7.7 litre 472 CID 16-valve V8 engine that produced a prolific 375 hp @ 4,400 rpm packin’ a punch with 712 Nm of peak torque @ 3,000 rpm….this Cadillac ‘kicked-butt” in the performance department. It was a car that you could drive all day and never tire of it.

Ask me how I know this? It was equipped with a Rochester 4MV 4-bbl downdraft Quadrajet with equalized manifold, mechanical fuel pump, dry-type air filter, intake silencer, and automatic choke. Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 8.3 seconds, 0-100 mph in 23.5 seconds with a top speed of 126 mph. It could do the ¼ mile @ 88 mph in 16.1 seconds. Now that is quick for an automobile of this magnitude. The engine was mated to GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic THM-400 3-speed automatic transmission.

The 1970 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham rode upon a long 133” wheelbase, while the DeVille/Calais series had a 129.5” wheelbase. It’s individually longer wheelbase added to its incredibly smooth ride. The Fleetwood Sixty-Specials had the luxury length of 228.5” with a wide 79.8” stance. Fleetwood crafted the Sixty-Specials in limited quantities as body on frame construction using Cadillac’s rugged fully boxed perimeter frame. The Fleetwood-bodied Cadillacs had their own assembly line for exclusivity.

The front suspension used upper and lower control arms with a new integral steering knuckle for greater dependability and longer life. It had independent helical coil springs, rubber mounted strut rods and rubber bushings to isolate road noise as they absorbed impact. The rear suspension was set-up to accommodate the Automatic Level Control network. The rear suspension used the Cadillac four-link drive system, helical coil springs and large rubber bushings to improve ride quality. All 1970 rear-drive Cadillacs received an upgraded heavier, stronger rear axle and differential. This is why these luxury behemoths rode like a big ole’ rollin’ Barco lounger.

The 1970 Cadillacs came standard with a triple braking system. A dual hydraulic master cylinder housed two individual chambers with their separate pistons providing independent operation for front and rear brake systems. The shoes had a self-adjusting feature each time the car was driven in reverse and the brakes applied. Disc brakes were fitted to the front axle while finned composite drums were fitted to the rear. The parking brake was actually a true auxiliary brake. It had an automatic release function that would not allow it to lock with the engine running and in gear.

Standard for the Fleetwood series was Automatic Level Control which kept the vehicle at optimum height under any road condition and automatically adjusted for change in load. The rear suspension used the network for the system. Automatic Level Control provided pressure from a compressor and air reservoir to a valve located at the rear crossmember of the frame.

If the rear end load deflected the suspension ½” or greater the valve would open allowing pressurized air to enter air chambers in the rear shock absorbers. When the load decreased the valve would exhaust the air from the shock absorbers to lower the car to level height. The valves were calibrated with a 6-12 second delay so that normal deflection of the rear suspension while encountering uneven pavement would not activate the system.

The 1970 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham was a masterpiece from the master craftsmen. It was the most luxurious owner-driven Cadillac. Fleetwood-bodied Cadillacs were special even among other Cadillac models. There was no more resplendent manner to travel than viewing the world from behind the wheel of a 1970 Cadillac. The majestic Fleetwood Brougham maintained the poised dignity that was the hallmark of every Cadillac. Its 375 hp V8 engine performance was astonishing for a motorcar of such magnificence. Relentless quality fit & finish were the forte of the Fleetwood craftsmen. The Fleetwood Series was the standing ovation for Cadillac….in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Just more superlative-superlatives………in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

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1978 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1978 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham; Cadillac Fleetwood, Cadillac, Classic Cadillac, Fleetwood Brougham, NotoriousLuxury on January 23, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

The next generation of the luxury car….

Cadillac’s first downsizing was the 1977-1979 model years

The 1978 Fleetwood Brougham was the next generation of the luxury car. The 1977-1979 model years were Cadillac’s first downsizing. These were the most efficient in Cadillac’s history. They were engineered from the ground-up making more efficient use of space. This next generation luxury car was made easier to service. They had increased head and legroom with more usable trunk space.

The Fleetwood Brougham for 1978 had clean, crisp, sculpted lines. They had better maneuverability for easier overall operation. These new Flagships offered the traditional Cadillac roominess, luxury, and elegance, in an all-new size. A lightweight V8 engine added unusual spirit to this motorcar of such dignity. The 1978 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham was a special car for special people.

The 1978 model year for Cadillac offered trim and highly efficient luxury cars. The Fleetwood Brougham was designed for the times. It was nearly two-feet shorter than previous Fleetwoods, and it was nimble and quick. Gone were its Fleetwood coachcrafted body and individually longer wheelbase. The Fleetwood Brougham now shared its platform with the Sedan deVille, it also shared the same overall dimensions. The vinyl roof and its pillar treatment differentiated the Fleetwood Brougham from the Sedan deVille. The Fleetwood Brougham was further distinguished with a frenched limousine-style rear window treatment.

Elegant refinements and luxurious roominess made the 1978 Fleetwood Brougham a superb luxury sedan. Electronic Level Control replaced the previous Automatic Level Control to maintain proper poise automatically for varied driving situations. 1978 Cadillacs used matched-mounted tires and wheels to reduce rolling resistance. Cadillac engineers retuned body mounts and structure for a smoother, quieter, ride. For straight, fade-resistant stopping power, four-wheel disc brakes were standard. From the handsome new grille to the distinctive new tail lamps, the 1978 Fleetwood Brougham was as efficient as it was beautiful.

Standard features for the 1978 Fleetwood Brougham included: Automatic Climate Control, power windows and door locks, Variable Ratio Power Steering, whitewall steel belted radial tires, Electronic Level Control, lamp monitors, AM/FM Signal Seeking radio with scanner and power antenna, Dual Comfort 50/50 front seats with six-way driver and two-way passenger power adjustment, manual passenger recliner, opera lamps, fully padded vinyl roof, and Freedom Battery. Eleven leather and seven Florentine velour choices were available for the interior upholstery. Cadillac offered many features and accessories optional to add further distinction to the 1978 Fleetwood Brougham.

The optional d’Elegance package offered contoured pillow-style seating

The 1978 Cadillacs were powered by the 7.0 litre 425 CID 16-valve OHV V8 engine. It was equipped with a Rochester 4-bbl Quadrajet and mechanical fuel pump. The engine produced 180 hp @ 4,000 rpm with 434 Nm of peak torque @ 2,000 rpm. Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 11.7 seconds, 0-100 mph in 38.8 seconds with a top speed of 112 mph. It did the ¼ mile @ 76 mph in 19 seconds. The engine was mated to GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission.

The 1978 Fleetwood Brougham was built as body on frame construction. It used a ladder type frame with welded cross members. The front suspension used the traditional upper and lower control arms, integral steering knuckle, arm and caliper support, integral hubs and rotors on spindles, tapered roller bearings with spherical joint, independent coil springs, link-type stabilizer bar, and hydraulic Direct Action shock absorbers.

The rear suspension used a four-link drive, coil springs, electronic height control network, and hydraulic Direct Action shock absorbers. The 1978 Fleetwood Brougham rode on a long 121.5” wheelbase and had the luxury length of 221.2”. It was 76.4” wide. Four-wheel self-adjusting disc brakes with a dual hydraulic master cylinder facilitating independent front and rear operation were standard.

Genuine long-laced wire spoke wheels, Cadillac-style

In keeping with the times Cadillac did their first downsizing with their 1977-1979 models. This next generation of the luxury car was trim and highly efficient. Its size made perfect sense with the rising cost of petroleum. The 1978 Fleetwood Brougham was the new breed of luxury car. A potent 7.0 litre V8 moved this modern architecture with unusual spirit. It was fully equipped as standard with many options available to further enhance comfort and convenience Cadillac-style. The 1978 Fleetwood Brougham’s spacious understated elegance made it a world-class sedan. Power, performance, and prestige were yours with the 1978 Fleetwood Brougham by Cadillac.

Thanks to Matt Garrett/GM Classics for keeping the spirit alive!

The 1975-1976 Fleetwood Brougham were the last Fleetwoods….

Good taste never goes out of style….as witnessed by the 1966 Brougham

1964 Cadillac Fleetwood

1978 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham

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1975 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1975 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham, Cadillac, Classic Cadillac, Fleetwood, Fleetwood Brougham, NotoriousLuxury on January 18, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

This was the last true Fleetwood-bodied Cadillac….

The 1975 & 1976 model years were the last of the breed….

The new look of Cadillac for 1975 was accented by rectangular headlamps, a beveled hood and lower front fenders. The styling was more dramatic with the elegant Fleetwood Brougham. This was the most luxurious owner-driven Cadillac sedan.

The Fleetwood Brougham augmented the Cadillac model hierarchy annually. With its individually longer wheelbase, body and interior by Fleetwood, it was the most majestic manner in which to drive the formidable “Standard of the World.” The Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham was the very essence of Cadillac luxury; it was the epitome of elegance and opulence.

With new technology and innovation, and the powerful 8.2 litre Eldorado V8 engine standard, the 1975 Cadillacs were among the most efficient in Cadillac’s history. Through a series of refinement Cadillac engineers scored gains in gas mileage for the 1975 model year.

Historically….this was the last true Fleetwood-bodied Cadillac. The 1975 Fleetwood Brougham carried on the tradition with a poised dignity that was the hallmark of every Cadillac…..and now we begin the next successful episode in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

The 1975 Fleetwood Sixty-Special Brougham was one of the world’s most elegant sedans. It had touches of luxury such as the new European inspired shirred design of its sew style to the lounge seating. Whether it was upholstered in the new glove-soft leather, the lovely new Monticello Velour, or a rich knit fabric called Moselle, the effects of the shirring technique were evident.

Everywhere inside the 1975 Brougham had the emphasis on luxury. It was a true Cadillac Flagship in every respect. In spaciousness and stature the Brougham was without conjecture one of the world’s great sedans. There were thoughtful touches such as reading lamps for both driver and front passenger.

Cadillac’s signal seeking AM/FM radio with power antenna, power windows, power door locks, Automatic Level Control, Automatic Climate Control, rear seat reading lamps, rear seat carpeted foot rests, a fully padded Elk Grain vinyl roof with coach lamps, remote control left-side rear view mirror, tinted glass, and Dual Comfort front seat with driver’s six-way adjustment, were all standard equipment.

Cadillac offered more features as standard than any other luxury make. Model code #6B B69/P Fleetwood Sixty-Special Brougham had a base price of $10,414, a price increase to $10,427, and finally to $10,843 with 18,755 built.

Special limited edition option packages for the 1975 Fleetwood Brougham included the Fleetwood Talisman option, it escalated luxury to new heights in the grandest Cadillac manner. The sumptuous Fleetwood Talisman returned for its second model year with a full width rear seat shedding the center console as equipped for the 1974 model year. Front individual lounge seats remained with their Medici velour trimmed locking center console.

Medici velour trimmed the upholstery and upper door trim panels and was available in four colors. Signature features included a fully padded Elk Grain vinyl roof with “Fleetwood Talisman” script on the sail panels and the classic jewel-like stand-up laurel wreath and crest hood ornament. The Cadillac Fleetwood Talisman was the most eloquent manner in which to travel Cadillac style for the 1975 model year.

The Brougham d’Elegance option was so majestic it attracted admirers wherever it was driven. Exterior signature features included a fully padded Elk Grain vinyl roof with “Brougham d’Elegance” script, and a jewel-like stand-up laurel wreath and crest hood ornament. The interior had a choice of four luxury trim combinations that included the upper door trim panels and seatback storage pockets.

Supple Sierra Grain leather was available in nine color combinations. Medici crushed velour enhanced the Euro-shirring effect with four dramatic colors. Six-way power seat, deep pile carpeting, opera lamps, and special turbine vane wheel discs were also standard for this optional trim package. The Brougham d’Elegance was one’s own personal limousine.

The luxurious 1975 Cadillacs were powered by Cadillac’s 8.2 litre 500 CID 16-valve OHV V8 engine equipped with a Rochester 4-bbl down-draft Quadrajet carburetor and GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic THM 400 3-speed automatic transmission. A new electric choke was added to improve fuel economy. Cadillac also introduced a new solid state HEI electronic high-energy ignition system that eliminated the rubbing block, points, and condenser. This provided quick starting. The engine produced 190 hp @ 3,600 rpm with 488 Nm of peak torque @ 2,000 rpm.

Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 12.9 seconds, 0-100 mph in 43.9 seconds, with a top speed of 114 mph. It did the ¼ mile @ 75 mph in 19.2 seconds. The engine was now equipped with advanced exhaust emission control systems including a catalytic converter. The combination of the HEI and catalytic converter with the use of unleaded fuel extended tune up requirements up to and including 22,500 miles. The transmission torque converter was refined making it tighter resulting in immediate positive responses with improved economy. The 1975 Cadillacs were as efficient and they were beautiful.

The 1975 Cadillacs were built as body on frame construction. They were built on Cadillac’s rigid perimeter frame with heavy gauge boxed side rails. The front suspension was the traditional upper and lower control arms with integral steering knuckle, independent helical coil springs, and rubber mounted strut rods with rubber bushings to absorb impact and isolate road noise. Shock absorbers with Teflon piston rings were fitted to the front and rear for consistent handling. The rear suspension had the self-leveling network, four-link drive, helical coil springs and large rubber bushings to improve ride quality.

Standard was Cadillac’s power braking system with dual hydraulic master cylinder providing independent front and rear operation, and was equipped with a large two-piston power booster. This sophisticated system provided smooth, straight, effortless braking under any driving condition.

The parking brake had an automatic release when transmission was placed into gear and could be used as a true auxiliary brake since it would not lock with the engine running and the car in gear. Cadillac Variable Ratio Power steering was also standard. It had a high-capacity pump which provided faster response. The 1975 Cadillacs were as rugged as they were rewarding.

The 1975 Cadillacs were the most technologically advanced in history. The highly efficient 8.2 litre 500 CID Eldorado powerplant was standard for all Cadillacs for the 1975 & 1976 model years. The engine was equipped with a Quadrajet carburetor with electric choke and a new catalytic converter reducing exhaust emissions, thus, creating improved fuel economy and cleaner air at the same time.

The 1975 Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham was not only the epitome of Cadillac luxury; it was the “Standard of the World” in technology and engineering excellence. The Fleetwood Brougham was another extremely successful endeavor in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

The Classic 1955 Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special

Will there ever be another “Standard of the World?”

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1966 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1966 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham, Brougham, Cadillac Fleetwood, Classic Cadillac, Fleetwood Brougham, NotoriousLuxury on January 7, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

The Brougham was sophisticated luxury and elegance

The “Standard of the World” was once again the leader in luxury, the leader in engineering prowess, and the epitome of elegance and splendor. The 1966 Fleetwood Sixty-Special Brougham now its own separate model series was eloquence on the grand Cadillac scale. The fabulous Fleetwood Brougham was the most luxurious owner-driven Cadillac sedan.

It was truly the “Cadillac of Cadillacs.” The Fleetwood series with all its grandeur was the most revered of Cadillac’s offerings. The 1966 Fleetwood Sixty-Special Brougham and its preeminence in the luxury car class was duplicated but never replicated….so here is the 1966 success story in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Cadillac’s dominance in the luxury car arena was a formidable “wake-up” call for other luxury makes. Cadillac’s Brougham series was always decadently luxurious to the point of obscene opulence….unmistakably Cadillac. The Fleetwood Brougham had signature features that made it unique and stately with a highly distinguished presence.

A Fleetwood Brougham was immediately identified in any gathering of fine automobiles. The Fleetwood Brougham had a formidable presence…..It immediately took center stage as the other luxury cars exited stage left…..arrogance but not conceit….as a luxury sedan it was complete…..the formidable Fleetwood Brougham…..formidable, formidable, formidable….Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham.

The Fleetwood Sixty-Special and the Fleetwood Eldorado were the only two non-limousine Cadillacs bodied by Fleetwood coachcrafters. The Fleetwood Brougham priced at $6,695 and the Fleetwood Sixty-Special at $6,378, were the classics that augmented Cadillac’s luxury fleet.

The Brougham differed form the Sixty-Special, as it came standard with a fully padded vinyl roof treatment, special “Brougham” nomenclature, carpeted rear seat foot rests and adjustable reading lamps, walnut trim, and lighted rear seat writing tables.

The Brougham sold over 13,630 units as compared to the Sixty-Special’s 5,445 units for the 1966 model year. The Brougham was an option package for the 1965 Sixty-Special which added $194 to the 1965’s base price of $6,479. It was such a hit that it was made into its own series for the 1966 model year.

This distinguished luxury sedan was powered by Cadillac’s 429 CID 16-valve OHV V8. The engine was equipped with a Carter AFB 3903S 4-bbl down-draft carburetor with equalized manifold, mechanical fuel pump, dry-type air filter, and an automatic choke. The engine produced 340 hp @ 4,600 rpm with 651 Nm of peak torque @ 3,000 rpm.

Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 8.7 seconds, 0-100 mph in 24.8 seconds with a top speed of 127 mph. It could do the ¼ mile @ 87 mph in 16.4 seconds. The engine was mated to GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic THM 400 3-speed automatic transmission.

The 1966 Cadillacs were built as body on frame construction. They were built on Cadillac’s rugged fully boxed perimeter frame with hidden bulkheads for extra torsional strength. The front suspension used the traditional upper and lower control arm with spherical joint, independent helical coil springs, rubber mounted strut rods, and rubber bushings to absorb impact and isolate road noise. The rear suspension was Cadillac’s four-link drive, helical coil springs, and rubber bushings to improve ride quality. The rear axle was the hypoid type with offset differential housing to facilitate Straight-Line Drive.

The 1966 Fleetwood Sixty-Special Brougham rode on its long signature 133” wheelbase, had the luxury length of 227”, and was 80” wide. Standard was Cadillac’s hydraulic dual power braking system with both front and rear brakes operating independently, and a parking brake that doubled as a true auxiliary braking system. The parking brake would not lock with the engine running and car in gear. Also standard was Cadillac’s Variable Ratio power steering which constantly adjusted to the driver’s style automatically. The “Standard of the World” stood alone….

The 1966 Fleetwood Brougham had an interior that rivaled a limousine. It was deep-seated luxury with many comfort and convenience accessories as standard. A fully leather upholstered interior by Fleetwood was available in six colors, Damask Cloth with leather bolsters in four colors, textured Dartmoor Cloth available in three colors, and Delmont embroidered cloth available in two colors.

The warmth of genuine walnut graced the dash and door panels. Fleetwood luxury was no more evident than in the Brougham with its carpeted rear seat foot rests, folding illuminated writing tables, adjustable reading lamps, even power ventipanes. Fleetwoods received a complete compliment of power accessories.

Power windows, power seat, Automatic Level Control, front and rear folding center arm rests, courtesy lighting, and a fully padded vinyl roof with “Brougham” scripts identifying this as the epitome of Cadillac luxury. Fleetwood interiors blended fabrics, leathers, and walnut in typical Fleetwood tastefulness. The Fleetwood series were recognized by the classic laurel wreath and Cadillac crest design.

The White Fleetwood Brougham belonged to actress Ann Miller

The 1966 Cadillac Fleetwood Series Sixty-Special Brougham was motoring in the grand Cadillac manner on the grand Cadillac scale. It offered resplendent elegance and formidable luxury that only Cadillac could present. Its powerful 340 hp V8 engine powered this personal limo with aplomb. Cadillac offered more standard comfort and convenience features and luxurious optional equipment than any other luxury brand. Every Cadillac Fleetwood was truly a masterpiece from the master craftsmen. The 1966 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham was simply another superlative in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”