In previous articles in this series, we focused on Lincoln and Chrysler’s Imperial. Many of their models were shared with other brands under their respective corporate umbrellas, but General Motors’ Cadillac was much more unique. As such, Consumer Guide’s reviews of 1970s Cadillacs on the used car market possibly cannot be predicted by trends shown in the reviews of other GM brands.
Yet, as mentioned in the recent Buick story, GM began to share components on a much larger scale by the end of the decade—arguably, to the detriment of all. Nonetheless, Cadillac would experience more speed bumps in the subsequent decade.
Here’s a look at “The Standard of the World” that successfully joined the downsize bandwagon yet was able to maintain its stature within the luxury car segment. Please note the CG rating scale of 5 being Excellent and 1 being Poor.
Cadillac
“Wretched excess at its worst … [though] current downsized series is almost as roomy … [with a] repair record more favorable.”
- Calais/DeVille/Fleetwood (1971-76): “The engine and drive train are rated superior, with the only problem area emanating from the cooling system.” CG rating: 3
- DeVille/Fleetwood (1977-80): “Ranking better-than-average on 1977-78 models. Electrical and paint gremlins resurface on ‘79s, however.” CG rating: 4
- Eldorado (1971-78): “If it were not for its excellent frequency-of-repair records, its plush interior, and its power, the Eldorado would receive a much lower overall rating.” CG rating: 2-3
- Eldorado (1979-80): “Far more acceptable for today’s high costs of car ownership … [but] initial owner surveys indicate below-average reliability, mostly due to troublesome electronic fuel injection system.” CG rating: 3
- Seville (1975-79): “Cadillac has done an outstanding job with final touches … [though it] has had a higher than average record of electrical problems.” CG rating: 4
- Seville (1980): “Not what we’d buy for ourselves, but a fine example of today’s American luxury car.” CG rating: N/A
