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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…

Requiem For A Legend: 1976 Cadillac Sedan deVille

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags Cadillac, Classic Cadillac, Last Full Size Cadillac, NotoriousLuxury, Requiem For A Legend: 1976 Cadillac Sedan deVille, Sedan deVille on February 20, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

1976 Bid farewell to the traditional Sedan deVille

The 1976 Sedan deVille was Cadillac’s last pillarless hardtop sedan

….The Forget-me-not

And now, the latest episode in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns” we retro back to the 1976 model year. America’s favorite luxury car had stolen the limelight once again. The 1976 Sedan deVille was “efficient as it was elegant, and rugged as it was rewarding.” It was one of America’s favorite luxury cars….the other was the Coupe deVille. This was also the nostalgic end of an illustrious era in luxury car motoring. The 1976 Cadillac Sedan deVille was the last full-size traditional Sedan deVille to roll off the assembly line.

It was also Cadillac’s last pillarless hardtop sedan. The formidable Sedan deVille ruled the highways from 1956 until 1976….this was the historic farewell to an automotive institution, a luxury-icon, the traditional full-size luxury sedan was gone forever. This was the final curtain call for luxury as America knew it. The 1976 model year was the finale for the DeVille and Fleetwood in traditional proportions. It was the end of the low volume Calais series as well. This was also the last year for a Fleetwood-bodied Cadillac. We had no idea at the time, we were witnessing the last of Cadillac’s greats….Farewell to a legend-

There was absolutely nothing like driving the traditional Sedan deVille. They were effortless in operation designed to cosset its passengers with first-class luxury Cadillac style. The ONLY way to travel was Cadillac style….whatever one wanted in a luxury car, Cadillac had in their 1976 editions of the “Standard of the World.” The 1976 Sedan deVille offered four-door roominess and comfort. Its timeless design still looks modern. The Cadillac DeVille series typically out-sold all of the other Cadillac models. The Cadillac DeVille is still a highly valued collectible to connoisseurs all of the world.

The 1976 Cadillac Sedan deVille came fully equipped, here are the more popular standard features: Automatic Climate Control air conditioning system, High Energy Ignition system, power windows and door locks, AM/FM Stereo radio with automatic power antenna, lamp monitors, six-way power seat, steel-belted radial ply wide whitewall tires, Soft-Ray glass, Variable Ratio power steering, folding center armrests front and rear, and quartz digital clock. Cadillac continued to offer more amenities as standard features than any other luxury brand. The 1976 Sedan deVille was once again the forerunner with all important considerations America wanted most in their luxury cars. With it elegant lines, traditional Cadillac appointments, and full-size responsiveness, the 1976 Sedan deVille was set apart from all the other makes distinctively.

Can you tell that I like Firethorn Metallic?

A special edition for the 1976 Sedan deVille was the decadently luxurious Sedan d’Elegance option. This opulent new expression of comfort featured contoured pillow-style seating upholstered by Fleetwood in an elegant ribbed knit material called Magnan and was available in four colors. Deep pile carpeting and 50/50 Dual Comfort front seats added to the elegance of this limited edition Cadillac. Exterior signature features included a stand-up see-through crest on the hood, and exclusive accent striping. It was a most delightful way to express one’s individuality with the Sedan d’Elegance.

Optional features to further enhance the 1976 Sedan deVille experience included a power Astro-roof, wire wheel discs, stereo tape/cassette player, illuminated entry system, lighted visor vanity mirrors, Theft-Deterrent system, Fuel Monitor system, Cruise Control, electric rear window de-fogger, Air Cushion Restraint system, automatic power door locks, Twilight Sentinel, Guide-Matic headlamp control, Automatic Level Control, Tilt & Telescopic steering wheel, remote trunk lock with power pull-down, and Firemist paint finishes.

Interior beauty and comfort were paramount with Cadillac. The Sedan deVille was rich in power assists, conveniences and appointments, and lavish with its elegant fabrics, leathers, and interior trim. New fabrics and added touches of luxury ensured popularity of the Sedan deVille. Eleven leather trim combinations were available, Magnan cloth was available in six colors, Manhattan an elegant velour was available in two colors, and Merlin plaid in two colors. Model code #6D D49 Sedan deVille was base priced at $9,265. For the 1976 model year 67,677 Sedans deVille were built….this is impressive when that number exceeded the entire production for some automakers….and that was just one of Cadillac’s models pulling sales figures like this.

Electronic Fuel Injection was available for the first time on the Sedan deVille. It was the speed-density type with port injection. The system used two electric fuel pumps in-line and in-tank. Electronic fuel injection featured efficient, faster starting, consistent performance, smoother engine idle, and few required maintenance services.

The 1976 Sedan deVille was powered with the proven 8.2 litre 500 CID 16-valve OHV V8 engine mated to GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic THM-400 3-speed automatic transmission. The engine was equipped with a Rochester M4ME 4-bbl down-draft Quadrajet, mechanical fuel pump, and two fuel filters, one in-line and one in-tank. 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 12.6 seconds, 0-100 mph in 42.2 seconds with a top speed of 115 mph. It did the ¼ mile @ 75 mph in 19 seconds.

The 1976 Cadillacs were built as body on frame construction using Cadillac’s perimeter frame with heavy gauge boxed side rails. The 1976 Sedan deVille rode upon a long 130” wheelbase, had the extreme luxury length of 230.7” with a 79.9” stance. The front suspension used upper and lower control arms, independent helical coil springs, integral knuckle, arm, and caliper support, integral hubs and rotors on spindles. It used a spherical joint with lower wear indicator, tapered roller bearings, and a rod & link type stabilizer bar. Double action hydraulic shock absorbers were fitted to the front and rear. Cadillac’s four-link drive and helical coil springs made up the rear suspension. It had the hypoid type axle differential with ring gear. The propeller shaft had front and rear constant velocity joints. These were the major elements of Cadillac’s magic carpet ride.

Standard was Cadillac’s hydraulic power braking system with dual master cylinder for independent front and rear operation. Ventilated discs were fitted to the front axle with single sliding piston calipers, and finned drums to the rear. The braking system was self-adjusting every time the car was driven in reverse and the brakes applied. The Cadillac power braking system provided smooth, straight stopping without fade. The parking brake had an automatic vacuum release and therefore could be used as a true auxiliary brake since it would not lock with the engine running and the car in gear.

The 1976 Cadillac Sedan deVille had a unique spirit among luxury cars with its own distinctive exterior identification and a wide selection of exclusive interiors. They were powered as all Cadillacs with the highly refined 8.2 litre 500 CID V8 engine. Teamed with the reliable Turbo Hydra-Matic Drive it provided responsiveness that made Cadillac a true driver’s car. Cadillac led the industry with standard and optional features and accessories. The 1976 model year for Cadillac was the end of an illustrious era in motoring splendor. The Fleetwood series, DeVille and Calais models made their final appearances as full-size luxury cars. This began an ominous decline in quality and eventual market share loss in the luxury car arena. The 1976 Cadillac Sedan deVille will live on in automotive history among the last full-sized traditional Cadillacs. The 1976 model year was the finale for the “Standard of the World.”

These are my favorite Cadillac model years 1970 & 1976

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1972 Cadillac Sedan deVille

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1972 Cadillac Sedan deVille, Cadillac, Classic Cadillac, NotoriousLuxury, Sedan deVille on February 17, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

…and the DeVille legend continues

Cadillac set another sales record for the 1972 model year at 267,827 vehicles. The previous sales record of 238,745 vehicles was for the popular 1970 model year. Two models in particular made up the volume of the 1972 sales record….if you guessed the Coupe deVille with 95,580 and the Sedan deVille with 99,531 you are quite correct. This is roughly 72.7% of total Cadillac production. Why, the Sedan deVille alone produced more for the 1972 model year than the complete production totals for rival automakers.

The popular Sedan deVille for 1972 missed the 100,000th mark by 469 cars! The 1972 model year celebrated Cadillac’s 70th Anniversary and building more than a quarter million vehicles in just one model year. Model code #68349 6D49-B Sedan deVille had a base price of $6,390. This milestone DeVille encore performance was another superlative superlative….in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

The 1972 Cadillac Sedan deVille was spacious and elegant. It was a spirited sport sedan enjoyed by more luxury car buyers than the other luxury brands. Even its re-sale value was tremendous. Since its inception in 1956, each model year brought greater innovation, more features and accessories standard, and that peace of mind knowing there was nothing more satisfying to own and drive. The Sedan deVille had everything that made a Cadillac a Cadillac, in fact, the DeVille had always been America’s favorite luxury car. The 1972 Cadillac Sedan deVille was the “Standard of the World” in comfort and convenience.

The Sedan deVille boasted six passenger comfort. Its luxurious deep-seated Cadillac style was further enhanced by new Majesty cloth with leather available in four brocaded colors. Or elegant Medley cloth with leather in three colors. A Fully leather upholstered interior was available in twelve trim combinations with notch back front seat. Power windows and seat, Variable Ratio power steering, power brakes, electric clock, and head restraints were among the many standard Cadillac amenities.

There was no wondering how this model out-sold the competitors….building 99,531 units speaks for itself…right? The Sedan deVille and Coupe deVille took turns beating each other for the title of “America’s favorite luxury car.” I always enjoyed the way the Sedan deVille took on the Lincoln TownCar in a stance like ‘Eastwood’ jeering at the TownCar as if…. “Go ahead….make my day…..” and the TownCar folded every time…….There was NOTHING to compete with the formidable “Standard of the World.”

For the 1972 model year Cadillac gave the Sedan deVille a “Beauty Treatment” with a front end that used a bumper system that yielded upon minor impact. The parking lamps were moved from the bumper to the headlamp housings. The front grille was more pronounced and now made of plastic. The rear received new taillamp lenses, and the ventilation ducts in the rear deck lid were gone. Basically it was a refreshed version of the 1971 model. The “Standard of the World” was still the luxury leader.

The 1972 Sedan deVille was powered by the Cadillac 7.7 litre 472 CID V8 16-valve OHV V8. It was equipped with a Rochester 4MV 4-bbl downdraft Quadrajet with equalized manifold, mechanical fuel pump, dry-type air filter, intake silencer and an improved automatic choke. GM used a purging system for the utilization of stored fuel vapor and to reduce emissions.

The engine produced 220 hp @ 3,800 rpm with 495 Nm of peak torque @ 2,400 rpm. The engine was mated to GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic THM-400 3-speed automatic transmission. Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 10.5 seconds, 0-100 mph in 50.5 seconds with a top speed of 119 mph. It could do the ¼ mile @ 80 mph in 17.7 seconds.

The 472 CID was very impressive in 1968 when it was introduced without a lot of emission controls unlike the 1972 model year. The use of low to no-lead fuel and the EPA mandated emission controls made this powerplant turn into junk. The 472 didn’t like all of those (AIR) Air Injection Reactors, (EGR) Exhaust Gas Recirculators, etc.

The 8.2 litre 500 CID was better suited for those pollution control devices. The bad thing about it, those ‘faux’ pollution controls did nothing but robbed your engine of gas mileage and horsepower. Those engines were designed at a time when we were burning leaded-premium fuel. The switch to regular un-leaded killed many V8 engines that were used to the lead and high-octane of a different era….

The 1972 Sedan deVille rode on a long 130” wheelbase, had the luxury length of 227.4” and was 79.8” wide. It was built as body on frame construction. Cadillac’s fully boxed perimeter frame had new front members for added protection with increased impact absorption.

The front suspension used upper and lower control arms, integral steering knuckle for greater dependability and longer life, helical coil springs, rubber mounted strut rods, and rubber bushings to absorb wheel impact and isolate road noise. The rear suspension used Cadillac’s four-link drive, helical coil springs, and large rubber bushings to improve ride quality.

The 1972 Sedan deVille came standard with Cadillac’s dual power braking system with independent operation of front and rear systems. It had ventilated discs in the front with finned composite rear drums. The system used a large two piston power booster and larger front wheel brake cylinders for increased capacity.

The brake shoes had a self-adjusting feature each time the car was driven in reverse and the brakes applied. The parking brake could be used as a true auxiliary brake, it had an automatic release feature when the car was shifted into gear, therefore, it wouldn’t lock when the engine was running and in gear. The 1972 Cadillacs incorporated an impressive array of features for increased occupant protection, accident prevention, and theft deterrence.

With luxury, power, and spirited performance, it was no mystery why the sedan deVille was the perennial favorite among luxury car buyers. Its spacious six passenger interiors were endowed with comfort and convenience features and accessories standard but were optional at extra cost on other luxury brands. Cadillac also offered more features and accessories than the competition.

Once you have driven the traditional Cadillacs NOTHING else comes close….The 1972 Sedan deVille maintained a poised dignity that was the hallmark of every Cadillac. It was just another jewel in the crown of the leader….in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

1972 Fleetwood Brougham

Fleetwood-bodied Cadillacs 1972 upper and 1975 lower

Thank you Mike Calhoon/MJC Classic Cars!!!

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1970 Cadillac Sedan deVille

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1970 Cadillac Sedan deVille, Cadillac, Classic Cadillac, NotoriousLuxury, Pillared Sedan deVille, Sedan deVille on February 14, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

This is the rarest of the 1970 Cadillacs only 7,230 built

This is the rarest of all Sedans deVille. This is not the hardtop sport Sedan deVille, this is “Sedan deVille” with fixed “B” pillar. This distinguished sedan was for the conservative clientele wishing to keep a lower profile without sacrificing luxury and elegance. Cadillac had eleven models in three series. Here is another jewel in the crown of the leader….a brilliant DeVille encore performance in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Top photo: Sedan deVille Bottom photo: hardtop Sedan deVille

The Sedan deVille offered the same luxury as the hardtop sport Sedan deVille. It had the exact same dimensions except for its roof-lines. The pillared Sedan deVille offered more headroom. It maintained the same poised dignity that was the hallmark of every Cadillac. It is also the rarest of the 1970 Cadillacs, only 7,230 were built as compared to 83,274 units for the hardtop sport Sedan deVille. This was also the last model year for its availability. The world was more memorized with the hardtop Sedan deVille.

The Sedan deVille was just as powerful as the hardtop sport Sedan deVille. It had the same 7.7 litre 472 CID 16-valve V8 engine that produced 375 hp @ 4,400 rpm with a whopping 712 Nm of peak torque @ 3,000 rpm. 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. It also used GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic THM-400 3-speed automatic transmission.

Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds, 0-100 mph in 22.6 seconds with a top speed of 127 mph. It did the ¼ mile @ 88 mph in 15.9 seconds. There was absolutely no difference in performance, which proved: “a Sedan deVille was a Sedan deVille.” This was just another example of the diversity of availability with the “Standard of the World.” Cadillac had a luxury car to suit every taste. The “Standard of the World” led the entire world with design and engineering during the Spirited Seventies.

The 1970 Sedan deVille didn’t stint on luxury as witnessed by this sparkling example finished in Adriatic Turquoise with a black vinyl roof. The interior was equally as luxurious as the hardtop Sedan deVille. In fact, they both shared the same plush fabrics and leather trim.

The pillared Sedan deVille was the more conservative in appearance for the low-key owner image. Its pleasing proportions were complimented by its spacious six passenger comfort and plentiful headroom. Dubonnet cloth with leather was available in four colors, medium blue is shown. Three selections were available for luxurious Dynasty cloth with leather, gold and turquoise is shown.

Six leather upholstered choices were available bringing the total to thirteen different offerings to add further distinction. Standard were front and rear folding center armrests, power windows and two-way seat, courtesy lighting, electric clock, power brakes, Variable Ratio power steering, Turbo Hydra-Matic Drive, and a host of comfort and convenience features and accessories both standard and optional. Cadillac offered more features standard than any other luxury brand.

The sedan deVille was built exactly the same as the hardtop Sedan deVille as body on frame construction. Both were built upon Cadillac’s rugged fully boxed perimeter frame. The same underpinnings were shared as well. The front suspension used upper and lower control arms with new integral steering knuckle for greater dependability and longer life. Independent helical coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers cushioned the ride.

The rubber mounted strut rods with rubber bushings isolated road noise and absorbed wheel impact. The rear was fitted with an upgraded heavier, stronger axle and differential. It used Cadillac’s four-link drive, helical coil springs, gas-filled shock absorbers, and large rubber bushings to improve ride quality. The pillared Sedan deVille was a big solid riding luxury sedan….Cadillac style-

The 1970 Sedan deVille came standard with Cadillac’s triple braking system. It used a dual hydraulic master cylinder with separate pistons and fluid chambers for the independent operation of the front and rear braking systems. The parking brake was a true auxiliary brake.

It had an automatic release therefore it would not lock with the engine running and the car in gear. It was fitted with discs to the front axle and finned composite drums to the rear. The brake shoes had a self-adjusting feature every time the car was shifted to reverse and driven applying the brakes.

The pillared Sedan deVille had really out-lived its day. The 1960s were the “Ward & June Cleaver/Ozzie & Harriet Nelson era” when cars like the pillared Sedan deVille and Series Sixty-Two sedans were popular. The world fell in love with hardtop styling and both hardtop coupes and hardtop sedans were the norm. The sedan disappeared until the mutilation and mayhem in Detroit began when they down-sized way too far. (Boo-hisss)

Cars were too dinky to be hardtops anymore because they were really puddle-jumpers and secret death-traps therefore needing the frame to hold that glass in place. Cars like the 1970 Sedan deVille with its pillared body style was the bastard at the Cadillac family reunion like the red-headed step-child called Calais. But, they are both is sleepers, like this odd-ball with only 7,230 made it will surely be up there in price. I always thought it looked so stately in a Mortician’s entourage…in black.

The tailored door panels were a luxurious touch

Notice the meticulous craftsmanship

Dynasty cloth with leather in medium turquoise

The pillared Sedan deVille had all of the renowned Cadillac luxury, comfort, and convenience in the traditional Cadillac manner. The car was more distinguished and conservative which was why it went over like a lead balloon, shame on Cadillac it should have been taken off life support many years before 1970. The traditional Cadillac profile was the long, low, not to mention “Cadillacy” outlandishlyostentatious like inyourface kind of luxury.

The Fleetwood-bodied Cadillacs, and the Cadillac hardtop Sedan deVille, were all having their heyday. This was the last model year to use this body style, it was as superfluous as the Calais series. Many Calais buyers upgraded to DeVille when they saw how much it cost to add the luxury back that Fleetwood had stripped…GM even “dyed its hair brown to conceal the red” but still the Calais and pillared Sedans deVille were well beyond their lives. This was the final curtain call for the pillared Sedan deVille….in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Hello to Rik Gruwez at Liberty Oldtimers in Brugge Belgium

1962 Cadillac Sedan deVille

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1962 Cadillac Sedan deVille, Cadillac, Classic Cadillac, DeVille, NotoriousLuxury, Sedan deVille on February 6, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

….and the formidable DeVille legend continues

Cadillac for 1962 was genuinely a new achievement in automotive excellence. This was one of the most magnificent Cadillacs ever….finely crafted, meticulously refined, and so progressively engineered. The 1962 Cadillac Sedan deVille presented new grace and dignity. The interior was the most luxurious and lavishly appointed in the history of the brand. The Sedan deVille was once again America’s favorite luxury car.

The smoother and quieter V8 engine, finely crafted coachwork, and improved insulation made the 1962 Sedan deVille even more luxurious. In every aspect of motorcar superiority the 1962 model year presented new masterpieces from the master craftsmen. The 1962 Sedan deVille was a true masterwork of the motoring age, and was another jewel in the crown of the “Standard of the World.” This was a DeVille encore performance….in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Here is nostalgia, the only thing missing is “Ward & June Cleaver.” This was from that era, that illustrious era that spoiled America rotten with cars a city-block long and half a city-block wide. We were “Fantasy Island” where one’s wildest dreams came true….a dollar was worth ALL of its pennies….and Cadillac was a motorcar of distinction.

The 1962 Cadillac was totally American such as: baseball, hot dogs, apple pie, and Sedan deVille. This goes back to a time when an automobile was purchased for its looks and performance and not how many miles to the gallon nor 0-60 in a nanosecond. America wasn’t into the crotch-rockets of today back then, America was the purveyor of the luxury car….Cadillac was the leader, remember….”The Standard of the World?”

The 1962 model year got the Cadillac “Beauty Treatment” that included crisp new styling. The iconic tail fins were tapered into the architecture for a more elegant, refined, look. The lower fins at the rear or “skegs”, remained from the 1961 re-style. The Sedan deVille received a new roofline with the pillarless four-window hardtop sedan.

For 60 years, Cadillac led the industry with performance, design, and engineering as the “Standard of the World.” From the bold front end styling to the sweep of the rakish tail fins, it was unmistakably Cadillac. The 1962 Sedan deVille was a perennial favorite among luxury car buyers. The DeVille series was luxury and comfort the entire world admired.

The Sedan deVille for 1962 provided conveniences, appointments, and sheer elegance that were unique to this great motorcar. The Sedan deVille was extremely popular from its inception in 1956. Spacious six passenger roominess and the kind of luxury that could only come from Cadillac, was the illustrious Sedan deVille series. The DeVille was also one of the longest running production series from 1949 all the way through 2005 after which it became DTS.

The 1962 Sedan deVille had a lavish interior available in eight cloth with leather or four solid color leather upholstery choices for a truly unique expression of Cadillac luxury. Power windows and seat, folding center front and rear arm rests, courtesy lighting, and that Cadillac peace of mind were just a few of the many comfort and convenience features and accessories as standard equipment.

Cadillac offered more features standard than any other luxury brand. Options were available to tailor the 1962 Sedan deVille to individual taste for greater comfort and convenience. Popular options for the 1962 model year included a rear window defogger, Soft-Ray glass, air conditioning, automatic headlamp control, power door locks, power trunk lid release, controlled differential, fog lamps, and Cruise Control.

The big news for Cadillac’s 1962 model year was a new dual hydraulic brake master cylinder. It had a separate chamber for both front and rear allowing them to operate independently. The parking brake could be used as a true auxiliary brake, its automatic release would not lock with the engine running and in gear. The brakes were self-adjusting each time the vehicle was driven in reverse. Finned drums were fitted to the front and rear axles for increased cooling and longer life.

The highly perfected Cadillac engine provided brilliant performance, remarkable all-speed silence and proven reliability. The 1962 Cadillac Sedan deVille was powered by the 390 CID 16-valve OHV V8. The engine was equipped with a Rochester 4-bbl downdraft Quadrajet with equalized manifold, mechanical fuel pump, polyurethane air filter, intake silencer, and automatic choke.

It produced 325 hp @ 4,800 rpm with 583 Nm of peak torque @ 3,000 rpm. Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 10.4 seconds, 0-100 mph in 28.9 seconds with a top speed of 125 mph. It did the ¼ mile @ 84 mph in 17.6 seconds. The 1962 Cadillacs used GM’s Hydra-Matic (Jet-away) 4-speed automatic transmission. The 1962 Cadillac engine and chassis were beyond question the most advanced that modern engineering could offer.

The 1962 Cadillac Sedan deVille was a large front engine rear drive vehicle. They were built as body on frame construction using Cadillac’s rugged tubular center X-frame. This type of frame allowed a lower front interior floor providing optimum seat height and headroom. The front suspension used the upper and lower control arms with spherical joint, independent helical coil springs, and rubber mounted strut rods with rubber bushings to absorb impact and isolate road noise.

Freon-filled shock absorbers were fitted to the front and rear. A hypoid rear axle with off-set differential cover to facilitate Straight-Line Drive, four-link drive, helical coil springs, and rubber bushings to improve ride quality were fitted to the rear. The four-link drive system prevented lean on curves which added to the 1962 Sedan deVille’s superb ride qualities. The ride was incredibly smooth due in no small part to its 129.5” wheelbase. The 1962 Sedan deVille had the luxury length of 222” and a wide 79.9” stance.

The 1962 Sedan deVille was a new achievement in motoring. The interiors were the most luxurious in Fleetwood’s history. In luxury, performance, and craftsmanship the 1962 Cadillacs were without conjecture the most elegant expressions of the brand to date. The highly refined Cadillac V8 engine delivered brilliant performance and proven dependability.

With chassis refinement and superb engineering, the 1962 Cadillacs retained the formidable magic carpet ride. The Sedan deVille was an eloquent expression of glamour on the grand Cadillac scale in the grand Cadillac manner. With complete motoring distinction and safety, comfort and luxury, the 1962 Cadillac Sedan deVille was another DeVille encore performance….in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Thanks to Rik Gruwez/Liberty Oldtimers & Bob Adams Classic cars

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1959 Cadillac Flat Top Sedan deVille

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1959 Cadillac, 1959 Cadillac Flat Top Sedan deVille, Cadillac, Classic Cadillac, Flat Top Sedan deVille, NotoriousLuxury, Sedan deVille on February 1, 2014 by 99MilesPerHour

The 1959 “Flat Top” Sedan deVille….

The 1959 “Flat Top” Sedan deVille was one of Cadillac’s most popular hardtop sedans. The dramatic sweep of the roofline past the panoramic back glass was contemporary for the day. The classic four-window Sedan deVille with the vista roof complimenting the iconic tail fins was dramatic and pronounced. The 1959 hardtop Sedan deVille maintained that poised dignity which was the hallmark of every Cadillac. The fabulous fins of the 1959 Cadillacs were a styling tour-de-force in the continuing saga of “As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Those fins were the tallest in the industry, they made history. They also excite Drew Fowler….he is a Corvette man but has a “fin-fetish.” This one’s for you Drew Fowler out in Colorado!

No other Cadillac is more widely recognized as the 1959 Cadillac model year. They were the quintessential status symbol when America was “Fantasy Island” and one’s wildest dream could come true. The 1959 Cadillacs were the pinnacle of excess and the epitome of luxury. Cadillac was the purveyor of the luxury car….and the “Standard of the World” in presence and prestige.

With precise craftsmanship and such universal appeal the 1959 Flat Top Sedan deVille was a totally new concept in fine car design. This one is finished in the 1950s popular “Wood Rose.” There were songs sung about the fabled “Pink Cadillac” all throughout that decade. The Cadillac motorcar was a true legend, the iconic 1959 was the most “NOTORIOUS” Cadillac ever….

Unmistakably Cadillac in stature and majesty, no other car is so visually exciting (ask Drew Fowler) and meticulously engineered. Two all-new high performance engines were available for the 1959 model year, a standard four-barrel carburetor or the optional triple deuce (three 2-bbl). The 1959 Sedan deVille was powered by the Cadillac 390 CID 16-valve OHV V8 engine that produced 325 hp @ 3,100 rpm with 583 Nm of peak torque @ 4,800 rpm.

The engine was equipped with a Carter AFB 2814S down-draft carburetor with equalized manifold, mechanical fuel pump, dry-pack type air cleaner, intake silencer, and automatic choke. The engine was mated to GM’s Hydra-Matic (Jet-away) 4-speed automatic transmission. Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 10.7 seconds, 0-100 mph in 29.5 seconds with a top speed of 126 mph. It could do the ¼ mile @ 83 mph in 17.8 seconds. To be as large as these cars were, they can really move – fast!

The 1959 Sedan deVille was an extremely large front engine rear drive vehicle. It had the luxury length of 225” rode on a long 130” wheelbase and had an extremely wide stance of 80.2”. The 1959 Cadillacs were built as body on frame construction. They were built upon Cadillac’s rugged X-frame. This design afforded more front seat interior room, greater stability, and improved appearance because it could be built lower.

The front suspension was the traditional upper and lower control arms with spherical joints and independent helical coils springs. The rear featured a four-link drive and helical coil springs. Power brakes were standard with front and rear drums. (Do not scoff this was 1959 and hi-tech for the day) Also standard were power steering and Hydra-Matic drive.

This one’s for you Drew!

The 1959 “Flat Top” had an interior that was airy and spacious….it was like driving your great-room around with you. Visibility was EXCELLENT, none of these grotesque fall-away front fenders….(you know today’s cars, and those front fenders that one cannot see…)

The 1959 Flat Top used a large panoramic rear back glass that gave full view of those fabulous fins making parking (lest we forget…backing) easier, after all….we’d hate to mow-down that little car behind us with those fins, that would not be pretty. (Imagine….life in prison for vehicular manslaughter by shish-kabobbing the family in the wagon behind you with those fins!)

The interiors were upholstered in “Camden Cloth” with matching leather bolsters in three colors, or “Coronado” in four trim combinations. The 1959 Cadillacs were the “Standard of the World” in comfort and convenience. (Be careful of those fins! Like when we were little and our elders and betters would tell us not to run with scissors….and we’d do it anyway to see why not?)

The Flat Top Vista-roof was popular among Sedan deVille buyers. Each sculptured contour, every inch of chrome, stainless-steel or aluminum was artfully and skillfully orchestrated to create an endearing and timeless motorcar. The 1959 hardtop Sedan deVille provided brilliant performance, exceptional luxury, and extraordinary beauty. All 1959 Cadillacs are a masterpiece in everything that makes a luxury car desirable, they are highly collectible and monetarily appreciating rapidly.

These fine automobiles will live on forever, as it will always have a cult following, Drew Fowler of Colorado is the CEO, CFO, & COO. The 1959 Cadillacs were in every way a masterpiece of design, engineering, and styling. Those fabulous fins made the iconic 1959 Cadillacs the most widely recognizable model year for the brand. Their increased comfort, safety, luxury, and value were elements adding to the legend’s formidable reputation. So, this is Andrew Fowler’s favorite model in the continuing saga of….”As the Standard of the World Turns.”

Bob Adams Classic Cars has over 50 years in the business spanning three generations. If you’re in the market for a premium, a collectible to be proud of, go and see Bob. Tell him “99MilesPerHour” sent you!

Daniel Schmitt & Co offers premium collectible classic cars

And here is my interpretation…I love the fins!

and the formidable DeVille legend continues….

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1969 Cadillac Hardtop Sedan deVille

Posted in "As the Standard of the World Turns", Cadillac, Cadillac Historical with tags 1969 Cadillac Hardtop Sedan deVille, Cadillac, Cadillac Sedan deVille, Classic Cadillac, DeVille, NotoriousLuxury, Sedan deVille on December 25, 2013 by 99MilesPerHour

…….The DeVille legend continues

It was America’s favorite luxury car……again. The 1969 Cadillac Sedan deVille was completely new for the model year. It came as two distinctive models; the Sedan deVille with fixed “B” center pillar and the hardtop Sedan deVille. The styling redesign made it longer, lower and more contemporary yet unmistakably Cadillac. This was an exciting new “Standard of the World” creation. Each line and contour had been tastefully redesigned. This was the luxury sedan parked in many driveways all across America. Its spirited performance was usually found in smaller sporting tourers. It was the perennial favorite among luxury car buyers.

The 1969 hardtop Sedan deVille was the most popular out of all eleven models. With its brilliant new Eldorado-inspired styling, its formidable Cadillac luxury, and its remarkably quiet comfort and handling ease, it was truly a masterpiece. It had a luxurious deep-seated sophistication. The spacious six passenger roominess, unusually spirited performance, and standard comfort and convenience appointments made this unique Cadillac sport sedan a stunning example of luxury in the grand Cadillac manner on the grand Cadillac scale…..welcome to the 1969 edition of the continuing saga of “As The Standard of the World” turns……

The 1969 Cadillac hardtop Sedan deVille was powered by the 7.7 litre 472 CID 16-valve OHV V8. The engine produced 375 hp @ 4,400 rpm with 712 Nm of peak torque @ 3,000 rpm. It was equipped with a Rochester 4-bbl down-draft quadrajet with equalized manifold, mechanical fuel pump, dry-type air filter, improved automatic choke, and Air-Injection Reactor system to reduce hydrocarbons.

It was mated to GM’s Turbo Hydra-Matic THM 400 3-speed automatic transmission with torque converter and fixed stator, the converter multiplied engine torque for increased driving thrust to drive wheels during acceleration in any gear. Performance was rated as 0-60 mph in 8.2 seconds, 0-100 rpm in 23.3 seconds, and had a top speed of 127 mph. It did the ¼ mile @ 88 mph in 15.9 seconds. The 1969 Hardtop Sedan deVille was one spirited performer.

The 1969 Cadillacs rode on a new longer fully boxed perimeter frame with hidden bulkheads for additional rigidity. They were built as body on frame construction. The front suspension used the traditional upper and lower control arm with a spherical joint, helical coil springs, and rubber mounted strut rods with rubber bushings to absorb impact and isolate road noise. The rear suspension used a four-link drive set-up with helical coil springs and rubber bushings to improve ride quality. The 1969 hardtop Sedan deVille had the luxury length of 225”, with a long 129.5” wheelbase and 79.8” width. There was absolutely nothing like the ride from a traditional Cadillac, the famous Cadillac red carpet ride was duplicated but not replicated by other luxury brands.

Among the more popular options available for the 1969 hardtop Sedan deVille included an all-new halo vinyl roof treatment, power door locks (coupes with this option had an automatic seat-back release for enhanced entry/exit to rear compartment), tilt & telescopic steering wheel, remote control trunk release, cruise control, Automatic Climate Control, Dual Comfort front seats, and Twilight Sentinel which turning driving lights on/off automatically according to light conditions, the system also had a delayed time to light one’s path from the car at night safely.

The interiors for the 1969 hardtop Sedan deVille were the most luxurious in Cadillac’s history. Newly designed high-back lounge seats with adjustable head restraints for front seat passengers and folding center front and rear armrests were standard. The new Cadillac instrument panel grouped controls logically and conveniently for the driver, and more front seat passenger room. Cadillac’s new Flow-through ventilation system eliminated the vent windows for a more sweeping uninterrupted style, truly contemporary for the day.

An all new steering wheel, ignition, and transmission locking system immobilized the car with the ignition key removed. There were 16 different interior trim combinations available in cloth with leather or all leather upholstered interior. The 1969 Cadillac hardtop Sedan deVille came standard with power windows, dual power braking system that provided independent front and rear operating systems and smooth, straight stopping requiring less pedal effort, variable ratio power steering, courtesy lighting, remote control driver’s outside rearview mirror, and a host of other standard comfort and convenience features.

The 1969 and 1970 model years were two of the most popular in Cadillac history

This was the Sedan deVille with fixed center “B” post for the conservative owner

The Cadillac hardtop Sedan deVille for 1969 was the most popular of Cadillac’s eleven models in three series. It attracted more buyers than any other single luxury car in the world. Cadillac offered more options and accessories than the competition, and all were designed and manufactured to Cadillac’s standard of excellence. The 1969 Cadillac Calais, DeVille, and Fleetwood were completely re-engineered. Cadillac featured an impressive array of GM safety, theft-deterrent, and convenience items. The 1969 hardtop Sedan deVille had the spirited performance of a smaller sporting tourer. It was indeed a masterpiece from the master craftsmen, the “Standard of the World” once again stood alone………….

This was a car that one could drive forever if properly maintained

America’s favorite luxury car

Whatever happened to Cadillac?

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Archive for Sedan deVille

Cadillac: The Standard of Excellence

Requiem For A Legend: 1976 Cadillac Sedan deVille

1972 Cadillac Sedan deVille

1970 Cadillac Sedan deVille

1962 Cadillac Sedan deVille

1959 Cadillac Flat Top Sedan deVille

1969 Cadillac Hardtop Sedan deVille

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