Cadillac DeVille
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
- "DeVille" and "De Ville" redirect here. For other uses, see Deville.
- See also Cadillac Coupe de Ville.
| Cadillac DeVille | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Manufacturer | Cadillac |
| Parent company | General Motors |
| Production | 1949–2005 |
| Assembly | Detroit, Michigan |
| Predecessor | Cadillac Series 62 |
| Successor | Cadillac DTS (nameplate only) |
| Class | Full-size luxury car |
| First generation | |
|---|---|
| Production | 1949–1954 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan (1954 only) |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine(s) | 331 cid V8 |
| Wheelbase | 1949-53: 126.0 in (3200 mm) 1954: 129.0 in (3277 mm) |
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
| Production | 1955–1958 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan 4-door hardtop |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine(s) | 331 cid V8 365 cid V8 |
| Wheelbase | 1955-56: 129.0 in (3277 mm) 1957-58: 129.5 in (3289 mm) |
| Length | 1955-6 coupe: 221.9 in (5636 mm) 1955-6 sedan: 214.9 in (5458 mm) 1957 coupe: 220.9 in (5611 mm) 1957 sedan: 215.9 in (5484 mm) 1958 coupe: 225.3 in (5723 mm) 1958 sedan: 221.8 in (5634 mm) |
| Third generation | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Production | 1959–1964 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine(s) | 390 in³ V8 429 in³ V8 |
| Wheelbase | 129.5 in (3289 mm) |
| Length | 1959-1960: 225.0 in (5715 mm) 1961-62: 222.0 in (5639 mm) 1963: 223.0 in (5664 mm) 1964: 223.5 in (5677 mm) |
| Fourth generation | |
|---|---|
| Production | 1965–1970 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door hardtop 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine(s) | 429 in³ V8 472 in³ V8 |
| Transmission(s) | 3-speed automatic |
| Wheelbase | 129.5 in (3289 mm) |
| Length | 1965-66: 224.0 in (5690 mm) 1967-68: 224.7 in (5707 mm) 1969-70:225.0 in (5715 mm) |
The DeVille (also De Ville and de Ville) name has been used on many of Cadillac's luxury car models. After the Fleetwood was dropped from the Cadillac lineup the DeVille became the largest Cadillac sedan. The DeVille name was replaced by DTS (DeVille Touring Sedan) for the 2006 model year.
Contents |
[edit] History
The name "DeVille" ("of the city" or "town" in French) derives its name from its body styling, which featured an open chauffeur's compartment and enclosed passenger compartment. This configuration elevated the vehicle from mere transportation to a bona fide status symbol. "Town Car" was first used by Lincoln in 1922 to describe a one-off vehicle built for Henry Ford. (see http://www.lincoln.com/about/ ) The first Cadillac to bear the name was the 1949 Coupe De Ville, with a 4-door hardtop version appearing in 1956 (a one-off Sedan de Ville was built in 1954[1]). Both cars were based on the Series 62. Beginning in 1965, DeVille denoted Cadillac's mainstream model, falling between the Calais and the Fleetwood.
For 1968, the DeVille gained slight exterior changes to comply with new federal safety and emissions legislation, and as with the rest of the Cadillac lineup, a new 472 in³ (7.7 L) V8 engine rated at 375 hp (sae gross).
In November 1971, a showroom-stock 1971 Coupe DeVille placed third in the annual coast-to-coast Cannonball Run, posting the highest average speed of the event, 84.6 mph (excluding stops) and averaging 8.9 miles per gallon.
DeVilles have always been a notable car throughout history and have been used countless times by politicians, spiritual leaders, and are notable in many movies.
[edit] 1971 - 1976
| Fifth generation | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Production | 1971–1976 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine(s) | 472 cid V8 500 cid V8 |
| Transmission(s) | 3-speed TH-400 |
| Wheelbase | 130.0 in (3302 mm) |
| Length | 1971: 225.8 in (5735 mm) 1972-76: 231.0 in (5867 mm) |
| Width | 80 in (2032 mm) |
As with all GM fullsize lines, the DeVille was redesigned for 1971. The standard engine remained the 472, still rated at 375 SAE gross horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. The car was still essentially a Calais with more options and different exterior trim.
The front end was redesigned with the newly-approved quad rectangular headlamps for 1975. The 210 hp 500 V8 replaced the 472 as the standard engine.
[edit] 1977 - 1984
| Sixth generation | |
|---|---|
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| Production | 1977–1984 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine(s) | 7.0L V8(1977-1979) 5.7L Diesel V8(1977-1981) 6.0L V8(1980-1981) 4.1L V8(1982-1984) |
| Transmission(s) | 3-speed Automatic transmission (1977-1980) 4-speed automatic(1981-1984) |
| Wheelbase | 1977-79: 121.5 in (3086 mm) 1980-84: 121.4 in (3084 mm) |
| Length | 1980-84: 221.0 in (5613 mm) 1977-79: 221.2 in (5618 mm) |
| Width | 1983-84: 75.3 in (1913 mm) 1980-84: 76.4 in (1941 mm) 1977-79: 74.6 in (1895 mm) |
| Height | 1983-84: 55.5 in (1410 mm) 1980-82: 55.6 in (1412 mm) 1977-79: 55.3 in (1405 mm) |
In 1977, the first generation of down-sized Cadillacs included mechanically similar DeVilles and Fleetwoods, with the latter still occupying the top of the lineup. The models primarily differed in minor trim, interior upholstery & equipment levels. These were the first DeVille models to be marketed without fender skirts over the rear wheels.
The big 500 in³ V8 was gone, replaced by a 425 in³ engine. This engine was replaced by the 368 in³ V8-6-4 for 1980, and the 350 in³ LF9 diesel V8 was now an option. Reliability problems with the V8-6-4 engine's computer controls prompted Cadillac to rush their new aluminum-block HT series engine into production for 1982.
From 1977 through 1979, Fleetwood models held a tapered "B" pillar in between the front and rear doors. Fleetwood also had chrome rocker molding (taller than the one used on Deville), and in 1979, an additional lower rear fender molding that Deville did not have.
For 1977, three models comprised the line-up, included were the two-door Coupe de Ville, and four-door Sedan de Ville and Fleetwood Brougham. The d'Elegance package continued for all three models, but the Fleetwood's Talisman package was dropped. 3-sided, wrap-around tail lamps were a 1977 feature only (although they would re-appear in 1987). Coupe de Ville's popular "Cabriolet" option included a rear-half padded vinyl roof covering and opera lamps. Sales figures include 138,750 Coupe de Villes; 95,421 Sedan de Villes; and 28,000 Fleetwood Broughams.
In addition to a redesigned grille, 1978 saw slim, vertical tail lamps inset into chrome bumper end caps with built-in side marker lamps (Cadillac would retain this "vertical tail lamp inset" design feature for many years, including Deville through 1984, and again from 1989 through 1999, Brougham through 1992, and Fleetwood through 1996). New for 1978, a "Phaeton" package was optional for Deville. Available on both Coupe de Ville and Sedan de Ville, the Phaeton package featured a simulated convertible-top, special pin striping, wire wheel discs, and "Phaeton" name plates in place of the usual "de Ville" ornament on the rear fenders. Inside were leather upholstered seats and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. The package was available in Cotillion White (with Dark Blue roof), Platinum Silver (with a Black roof), or Arizona Beige (with a Dark Brown roof). Sales figures included 117,750 Coupe de Villes; 88,951 Sedan de Villes; and 36,800 Fleetwood Broughams.
With bigger changes coming in '80, the 1979 models saw few alterations, one of which was a new grille design. The line-up for the 121.5" wheelbase cars remained the same three models as before. As it had been since the discontinuation of the Calais for 1976, the Coupe de Ville was Cadillac's entry-level priced car, at $11,728. The next step up was the four-door Sedan de Ville, at $12,093. The Fleetwood Brougham sedan, at $14,102, was just a few hundred dollars shy of the all-new Eldorado coupe. For 1979, the "Phaeton" package was still available in three colors, but with a new color, "Western Saddle Firemist" (with leather interior in "Antique Saddle") replacing the "Arizona Beige" scheme. Sales hit 121,890 for Coupe de Ville, 93,211 for Sedan de Ville, and an impressive 42,200 for Fleetwood Brougham.
In the Martin Scorsese film, Goodfellas, the Western Saddle "Phaeton" package was featured on the 1979 Coupe de Ville driven by Henry Hill (portrayed by actor Ray Liotta).
1980 saw a major re-design (while still maintaining the same wheelbase and interior), but the cars wore all-new sheet metal outside. While the Phaeton option for Deville was discontinued, a new model, the Fleetwood Brougham coupe (priced at $14,971 - $44 higher than the four-door), was added to the line-up wearing a distinctive padded vinyl top (covering the rear-half of the roof) that was not available on Coupe de Ville. This was the first two-door Fleetwood Brougham. The two door models - Fleetwood Brougham coupe and the Coupe de Ville - now wore full, bright side window surround moldings, where as the four-door Sedan de Ville and Fleetwood Brougham sedan had body-color door frames with a thin chrome bead around the window opening. The Fleetwood Brougham sedan (priced at $14,927) continued its tradition of individually-framed side windows (a throw-back to the 1938 Sixty Special), and now featured small electro-luminescent opera lamps mounted on the lower B-pillar between the doors. The chromed-plastic grille held a very diplomatic, Rolls-Royce inspired design, with thick vertical bars. The grille cast for 1980 was used again for the 1989 to 1992 Brougham. Late in the 1980 model year, V6 power (in the form of a 4-bbl 252cu engine manufactured by Buick) was offered as a credit option. This became the first non-V8 powerplant offered in a Cadillac since 1914. The standard engine for 1980 was a new 368cu 6.0 liter V8. Pricing for Deville was $12,899 for the coupe; $13,282 for the sedan. Sales dropped miserably for the 1980 model year, despite new sheetmetal and a multitude of improvements. Coupe de Ville was down to 55,490 (far less than half of the '79 figures), Sedan de Ville was also down by nearly half at 49,188, Fleetwood Brougham sedan fell to 29,659, and the new Fleetwood Brougham coupe sold a measly 2,300 units.
1981's biggest news turned out to be a fiasco - the V-8-6-4 engine. Despite numerous customer complaints, Cadillac defended the micro-compressor controlled powerplant, and even offered special extended warranties to customers. Also available again this year was Oldsmobile's 5.7 liter V-8 diesel engine. The Buick V-6, teamed with an automatic transmission, returned for '81 after a short initial offering in the spring of 1980. With the new front-drive Cadillac Cimmaron taking over as Cadillac's entry-level model, the Coupe de Ville now became the step-up, priced at $13,450. Sedan de Ville was priced at $13,847, and now had the unique option of an available automatic seat belt system - the first offered on a GM vehicle. With the automatic shoulder/lap belt system (only for the front seat passengers), the shoulder point was moved from the upper B-pillar to the upper door glass frame, and the belt reel was moved from the floor to the lower door frame. The $150 option was available only on V-6 powered Sedan de Villes. The V-6 option itself was a $165 credit over the standard V-8 in De Ville. A new grille design was made up of small squares, similar to the pattern from 1979. The egg-crate 1981 grille cast was used again for the 1987 and 1988 models. This year, the Fleetwood Broughams showed a considerable jump in price, $15,942 for the coupe; $16,355 for the sedan. Sales figures - as they had since the 1978 model year - continued in the tradition of Cadillac's full-size four-door models out-selling its two-door models. For 1981, the total score was 89,991 sedans versus 62,724 coupes.
Changes for '82 were kept to a minimum, but still included a new grille design (which was used for 1982 through 1986), revamped parking lamp / tail lamp ornamentation, and a new standard wheel cover design. The biggest news for Cadillac this year was the 4.1 liter V-8 engine to replace last year's V-8-6-4 (which returned in 1982, but only for the Fleetwood 75 limousine). The new power plant featured a closed-loop digital fuel injection system, free-standing cast-iron cylinders within a cast-aluminum block, and was coupled with a 4-speed automatic-overdrive transmission. Other engine options included the Buick V6 or Oldsmobile's diesel V-8. The Coupe de Ville was now priced at $15,249, with the Sedan de Ville $450 higher at $15,699. Fleetwood Brougham was priced at $18,096 (coupe) and $18,567 (sedan). Sales totals for 1982 included 50,130 coupes and 86,020 sedans.
For 1983, electronic fuel injecton was added to the standard 4.1 powerplant, resulting in 10 more horespower. Meanwhile, the Buick V6 was dropped before the model year began. The biggest visible change was hardly noticible - while the grille design was a carry-over from the previous year (and would be through 1986), the Cadillac script moved from the chrome header onto the grille itself. Coupe de Ville's popular Cabriolet roof package added $415 to its $15,970 sticker price. 1983 was supposed to be the last year for the rear-drive De Ville, as new front-drive models would take over for 1984, leaving Fleetwood Brougham the last rear-drive Cadillac hold-out. Unfortunately, developmental delays caused De Ville to stay in current rear-drive form for another year. However, sales figures looked good, with a total of 109,004 sedans (including the $16,441 Sedan de Ville and $19,182 Fleetwood Brougham sedan) and 65,670 coupes (including the Coupe de Ville and $18,688 Fleetwood Brougham coupe).
Because of a delay in production of the new front-drive De Villes (which were now going to be 1985 models), 1984 was a re-run for the rear-wheel drive Coupe de Ville ($17,140) and its four-door companion, the popular Sedan de Ville ($17,625). It would also be the last time De Ville used the "V" emblem below the Cadillac crest, as 1985 and on would use the crest and wreath emblem - formerly a Fleetwood exclusive. Visible changes included body-color side moldings, and gold-tone winged crests on the parking lamps up front and tail lights in back. Hidden changes included a revised exhaust system with a revamped catalytic converter. Price jumps hit Fleetwood as well, with the Brougham coupe at $19,942 and Brougham sedan passing the $20,000 mark, at $20,451. For 1984, sales figures show a total four-door production of 107,920 units, and an additional 50,840 two-door units. These figures are somewhat deceiving though, as this was a very short model year for the rear-drive Coupe and Sedan de Ville. The five new front-drive 1985 models - Coupe and Sedan de Ville, Fleetwood coupe and sedan, and Fleetwood d'Elegance sedan - arrived in Cadillac showrooms during the Spring of 1984, about six months earlier than most new-car introductions, so both the 1984 rear-drive and 1985 front-drive models were selling at the same time for nearly half a year. Cadillac sold 45,330 units of the new 1985 front-drive De Ville and Fleetwood models during the 1984 model year (35,940 four-doors and 9,390 two-doors).
[edit] 1985 - 1988
| Seventh generation | |
|---|---|
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| Production | 1985–1988 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FF layout |
| Platform | C-body |
| Engine(s) | 4.5L 155 hp (116 kW) V8 |
| Transmission(s) | 4-speed automatic |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 in (2814 mm) |
| Length | 1985-86: 195.0 in (4953 mm) 1987-88: 196.4 in (4989 mm) |
| Width | 1985-86: 71.7 in (1821 mm) 1987-88: 72.5 in (1842 mm) |
| Height | 55.0 in (1397 mm) |
| Fuel capacity | 18 US gallons (68.1 L/15.0 imp gal) |
In 1985, Cadillac's standard models - the Deville and Fleetwood - switched to GM's new C-body platform with front wheel drive. These new models surprisingly kept almost identical interior dimensions as their considerably larger, previous-year rear wheel drive counterparts. This 1985 change also brought nearly the entire Cadillac line of cars to front wheel drive - leaving only the Fleetwood Brougham as the rear wheel drive stand-out. Cadillac has had a long, successful history with front wheel drive - going back to the 1967 Eldorado.
The all-new 1985 Deville - powered by Cadillac's exclusive HT4100 4.1 liter, transversely-mounted V8 engine - was still available in sedan or coupe. The d'Elegance package - an interior dress-up package featuring button-tufted seating and extra niceties - was no longer available on Deville, but now only offered solely on the Fleetwood sedan. Standard models for 1985 in this series included the Coupe de Ville, Sedan de Ville, the Fleetwood coupe and sedan, and the Fleetwood d'Elegance sedan. Also in this series was Fleetwood Seventy-Five limousine. Still featuring seven passenger accommodations, the "baby limo" was now based on a stretched Coupe de Ville body.
Within a couple years, the same 110.8" wheelbase (GM's "C" and "H" platforms) on the '85 Deville and Fleetwood was also utilized for the Pontiac Bonneville, Oldsmobile's Eighty-Eight and Ninety-Eight, and the LeSabre and Electra / Park Avenue from Buick. All GM "C" bodies were introduced in 1985 (Buick Park Avenue, Cadillac Deville, Oldsmobile 98), whereas GM all "H" bodies, save the Bonneville, were introduced in 1986 (Buick LeSabre and Oldsmobile 88). Pontiac was initially left out of the C/H bodies because they were designed for the Buick-Oldsmobile-Cadillac Group divisions. However, when GM dropped plans for a FWD B-body vehicle (one size up from the "A" bodies), Pontiac felt they needed a full-size FWD vehicle to compliment their lineup.
Of the GM FWD C/H bodies, Cadillac was the only line to offer a V8 engine. Other GM vehicles were equipped with Buick-derived 3.0 or 3.8 V6 engines or an Oldsmobile 4.3L V-6 diesel (1985 only).
The mildly-restyled 1985 Lincoln Town Car (introduced in then-current form in 1980) was soon out-selling Deville, despite Cadillac's front-wheel drive, newer technology, and contemporary design.
In an attempt to win back customers, 1987 saw a new front-end design with one-piece composite headlamps flanking a new trapezoid-shaped grille. New elongated fender caps were in back - upping the overall length by an inch and a half, but much more dramatic in appearance with new wrap-around tail lamps. Unlike the contemporary headlamps, the changes to the rear-end in 1987 had little to do with engineering, but rather, feedback from Cadillac's customer base who felt the 1985 car looked too short. Although the '87 revamp was quite similar to the 1986 model (so similar that it still used the previous year's deck lid), the design was more in-tune with the look that traditional Cadillac buyers were used to.
While the Deville line gained two models for 1986 - the Touring sedan and coupe, Fleetwood lost two models in 1987 - the base Fleetwood sedan and coupe. The Fleetwood coupe was dropped in name, but the body style continued with the Coupe de Ville. And similarly, the Fleetwood sedan's base version was dropped, as the Fleetwood sedan now came standard with the d'Elegance package. The Fleetwood d'Elegance for 1987 included a 55/45 split front seat in multi-button tufted design, 6-way power passenger seat, power trunk-lid release, dual power outside mirrors, rear-seat reading lamps, electronic instrument cluster, locking wire wheel discs, and a padded vinyl covering over the rear half of the roof. Another new model was introduced (with a long-traditioned name, last seen in 1972), the Cadillac Sixty Special. It was equipped similar to the Fleetwood d'Elegance, but featured a longer 115.8" wheelbase (all the room was added to the rear compartment, including longer rear doors) and a padded vinyl full-roof covering (as opposed to the 110.8" wheelbase on the Fleetwood d'Elegance, with its rear-half vinyl roof top). Interior extras included rear seat foot rests and illuminated drop-down vanity mirrors for rear-seat passengers. Outside, both Fleetwood d'Elegance and Fleetwood Sixty Special featured fluted cladding on the lower doors, and inside, genuine American Walnut trim graced the dashboard and door panels. The new Sixty Special also included a sophisticated four-wheel anti-lock braking system as standard equipment.
Cadillac's Touring Sedan and its 2-door companion, the Touring Coupe, were based on the standard Deville but included extras such as a subtle rear deck lid spoiler, front air dam with fog lamps, rear seat headrests, leather upholstery, and a performance enhancement package among other features. In addition, the Touring Coupe had removable decorative louvers on the rear edge of the side opera windows.
Pricing for 1987 included Coupe de Ville at $21,316, and Sedan de Ville at $21,659. Fleetwood d'Elegance at $26,104, and the new Fleetwood Sixty-Special was available for $34,850. The Touring option, priced at $2,880 over Deville's base cost, also included aluminum wheels mounted on 15" Goodyear Eagle GT tires.
For 1988, design changes were kept to a minimum, as a heavy-restyle was coming next year. But for now, Cadillac's powerplant was expanded to 4.5 liters. This was the last year (for now) for the Deville-based Touring sedan and coupe models.
Cadillac's main competition in this time frame continued to be Lincoln, which, along side their successful Town Car, was now fielding an all-new front wheel drive Continental (based on the Ford Taurus). Lincoln was not able to configure its aging 5.0 liter V-8 to a front-wheel drive vehicle, so the new Continental went into production with only a six cylinger engine. With gasoline prices remaing low - and buyers not concerned with economy as much as they were with power - Cadillac Deville, with its eight-cylinder engine, had an edge over the new V-6 Continental.
[edit] 1989-1993
| Eighth generation | |
|---|---|
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| Production | 1989–1993 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FF layout |
| Platform | C-body |
| Engine(s) | 4.9 L 200 hp (150 kW) HT-4900 V8 |
| Transmission(s) | 4-speed automatic |
| Wheelbase | 1989-1991: 113.8 in (2891 mm) 1992-93: 113.7 in (2888 mm) |
| Length | 1989-1991: 205.6 in (5222 mm) 1992-93: 206.3 in (5240 mm) |
| Width | 1989-1991: 72.5 in (1842 mm) 1992-93: 73.4 in (1864 mm) |
| Height | 1989-1991: 55.0 in (1397 mm) 1992-93: 55.1 in (1400 mm) |
| Fuel capacity | 18 US gallons (68.1 L/15.0 imp gal) |
1989 saw drastic changes to the body, including a new, longer 113.8" wheelbase for sedans and dramatic re-styling for the coupe and sedan. The 155 hp (116 kW) 4.5 liter powerplant (introduced just a year earlier), dashboard, and the front doors (on both the coupe and sedan) were about the only items that carried over - even the trunk was 3 cubic feet larger than last year. The d'Elegance package was gone, but base Fleetwood models (now wearing stylish rear fender skirts) received the d'Elegance-inspired multi-button tufted upholstery. The Fleetwood coupe was back, but the Fleetwood Seventy-Five Limousine was dropped. The Sixty-Special now shared the standard wheelbase with the Deville and Fleetwood, but featured exclusive 22-way power heated driver and passenger seats designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. The Coupe de Ville and Fleetwood coupe actually still used last years interior, wheelbase, and doors - all cleverly hidden between the new front and rear styling. A give-away to the previous design is the rear shelf package on the 2-door models. While the parcel shelf on the four-door models received a 'Mercedes-Benz inspired' storage compartment with lid, rear seat headrest panel, and a long 3-bulb horizontal brake lamp, the 2-door models still had the narrow carpeted parcel shelf and 'cyclops-eye' pedestal brake lamp from the previous year. Of special note were the composite (plastic) front fenders that resisted parking-lot dings and dents, and weighed less than their steel counterparts.
For 1990, Deville and Fleetwood lost their telescopic steering column, but retained the tilt feature - in exchange for a steering-wheel mounted airbag. Engine output was up an additional 25 horsepower, thanks to sequential-port fuel injection. 1990 models also received GM's PASS Key theft-deterrent system which used a coded electronic pellet embedded into the ignition key. While Lincoln's Continental did not fare well against Deville, a new sales threat - aimed directly at Cadillac - came from the 1990 debut of Toyota's Lexus LS400 and the Infiniti Q45 from Nissan. Additionally, Acura - Honda's high-end label - had been gaining momentum in the luxury market since its 1986 introduction.
In 1991, a 200 hp (150 kW) 4.9 liter V8 - the largest of this type - became the new standard powerplant. Also new was a tasteful grille of an inverted trapezoid design (almost upside-down from last years egg-crate keystone design), and new body-side moldings. The new grille held the familiar shape of the Cadillac crest itself - a styling cue that continues on to this day. A 2-position memory seat was now standard (formerly optional) on Sixty-Special.
1992 was the last year for the front-drive Fleetwood sedan and coupe. Fleetwood's interior, with its standard electronic instrument cluster (framed with genuine Dark American walnut), and plush tufted seating, also included dual visor-mounted illuminated vanity mirrors for both driver and passenger, and on sedans, even the rear passengers had two additional swing-down illuminated vanity mirrors. A new model was added to the line-up - the Cadillac Touring Sedan (last seen in 1988). Available only as a four-door, it featured exclusive enthusiast-inspired seating, a steering wheel with formed hand-grips, and replaced the usual stand-up hood ornament with a large, grill-mounted wreath and crest. Inside Touring sedan, the car was equipped much like the Fleetwood models, with standard digital instrumentation and walnut trim, but Touring Sedan held its own distinctive leather seating in one color, "Beechwood" (a chamois-shade of beige). On Touring Sedan, the Delco/Bose sound system with cassette was standard, while the single-slot CD player was optional.
1993 saw few changes, as a brand-new replacement was coming for 1994. In an effort to keep the left-over 1993 cars still looking fresh against the '94 models at the Cadillac dealer, minor trim changes were made including black-out trim in the grille, and removing the chrome strip from the glass divider on the sedan's rear doors. 1993 was also the end of the line for the Sixty-Special sedan and Coupe de Ville. For Coupe de Ville, the full-size 2-door body style had been declining in sales for several years, so the new 1994 design went into production with a 4-door sedan style only. In 1993, the Fleetwood name went onto a new, rear-wheel drive vehicle (a replacement for the rear-wheel drive Brougham), so the 1992 front-drive Fleetwood 'became' the 1993 Sixty-Special (available only as a four door). This was a step-down in furnishings and standard equipment for Sixty-Special, as the car was now similarly equipped to the 1992 Fleetwood it was replacing. Velour upholstery was now standard, leather optional. While Sixty Special retained genuine American Walnut trim on the doors and dashboard, the custom seating that made the Sixty-Special unique since 1989 was now optional, available in the form of the "Ultra" package.
[edit] 1994 - 1999
| Ninth generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Production | 1994–1999 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FF layout |
| Platform | K-body |
| Engine(s) | 4.9 L HT-4900 V8 4.6 L Northstar V8 |
| Transmission(s) | 4-speed 4T60 automatic 4-speed 4T80 automatic |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in (2891 mm) |
| Length | 1994-96: 209.7 in (5326 mm) 1997-99: 209.8 in (5329 mm) |
| Width | 76.5 in (1943 mm) |
| Height | 1994-96: 56.4 in (1433 mm) 1997-99: 56.0 in (1422 mm) |
| Curb weight | 3959 lb (1796 kg) |
For 1994, the DeVille was redesigned to share the K-body platform with the Seville. The body was redesigned, although the wheelbase remained 113.8" - rather than the 111" used on the Seville. Production moved to Hamtramck, Michigan.
The DeVille Concours was available with the new 270 hp (201 kW) LD8 Northstar V8, while lesser models retained the HT-4900 until 1996. That year, the base model took on the lower-output Northstar while the Concours moved up to the high-output L37 Northstar, with 300 hp (220 kW). The DeVille Concours replaced the 1993-only Cadillac Sixty Special.
The DeVille received a minor redesign for the 1997 model year, while it got the d'Elegance trim line to replace the Cadillac Fleetwood. New headlights and a new grille were added, the rear wheel skirts were removed, and the black/chrome trim was replaced by a double chrome trim in the base Deville, chrome and gold trim in the d'Elegance and chrome and body colored trim in the Concours. The name was shortened from Sedan deVille to DeVille. The interior gained a new dashboard design that hid the passenger airbag seams and new door panels with front side-airbags and the availability of OnStar system.
| Model | Year | Engine | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 1994–1995 | 4.9 L HT-4900 V8 | 200 hp (149 kW) at 4100 rpm | 275 ft·lbf (373 N·m) at 3000 rpm |
| 1996–1999 | 4.6 L LD8 Northstar V8 | 275 hp (205 kW) at 5750 rpm | 300 ft·lbf (373 N·m) at 4750 rpm | |
| Concours | 1994 | 4.6 L LD8 Northstar V8 | 270 hp (201 kW) | 300 ft·lbf (407 N·m) |
| 1995 | 275 hp (205 kW) at 5750 rpm | 275 ft·lbf (373 N·m) at 4750 rpm | ||
| 1996–1999 | 4.6 L L37 Northstar V8 | 300 hp (224 kW) at 6000 rpm | 295 ft·lbf (400 N·m) at 4400 rpm |
[edit] 2000 - 2005
| Tenth generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Production | 2000–2005 |
| Body style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FF layout |
| Platform | K-body |
| Engine(s) | 4.6 L Northstar V8 |
| Transmission(s) | 4-speed 4T80 automatic |
| Wheelbase | 115.3 in (2929 mm) |
| Length | 207.2 in (5263 mm) |
| Width | 74.5 in (1892 mm) |
| Height | 56.7 in (1440 mm) |
| Curb weight | 3800 lb (1724 kg)+ |
The 2000 model year saw the first major redesign since 1994 and the introduction of the last generation of the Deville. The exterior was completely redesigned featuring a sportier, elegant and more aerodynamic design. The revamped interior featured completely new door panels and seats, while the dashboard and radio face only received minor facelifts. 2000 DeVilles also featured the first production LED tail lamps in automobiles, a feature now becoming increasingly commonplace on luxury and family cars. The 'd Elegance designation was replaced with the Deville DHS (Deville High Luxury), which added several cabin comfort options to include power rear window sunshade and heated/massaging rear seats. The performance enthusiast's Deville, the Deville Concours was renamed the Deville DTS (Deville Touring Sedan) and was available with stability control, active suspension, onboard navigation and magnetic variable assist steering.
This final version of the DeVille lasted through the redesign of 2000 and ended production in 2005. It was replaced by the restyled and renamed DTS (stands for DeVille Touring Sedan) for 2006.
| Model | Year | Engine | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base / DHS | 2000 | 4.6 L LD8 Northstar V8 | 275 hp (205 kW) at 5750 rpm | 300 ft·lbf (373 N·m) at 4750 rpm |
| 2002–2005 | 275 hp (205 kW) at 5600 rpm | 300 ft·lbf (407 N·m) at 4000 rpm | ||
| DTS | 2000–2004 | 4.6 L L37 Northstar V8 | 300 hp (224 kW) at 6000 rpm | 295 ft·lbf (400 N·m) at 4400 rpm |
| 2005 | 290 hp (216 kW) at 5600 rpm | 285 ft·lbf (386 N·m) at 4400 rpm |
[edit] 2006
See Cadillac DTS
For the 2006 model year the Cadillac DeVille nameplate, but not the car itself, was replaced by the Cadillac DTS. This is in fact an abbreviation of "DeVille Touring Sedan", a name that dates back to 1985 when it was used for the optional touring package that eventually became its own model. This follows the same naming pattern as the CTS, STS. The last DeVille rolled off the Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly line on June 23, 2005.
[edit] Technology
As GM's top-selling luxury sedan, De Villes feature class-leading automotive technology. For 1985, a digital speedometer with tamper-proof odometer was available on the De Ville. Even though the 3rd taillight became mandatory in 1986, it was standard on the 1985 model. The 1989 De Ville was one of GM's first cars to feature the availibilty of a driver's airbag, and within a few years, De Ville became a test-bed for features such as night-vision technology, XM Satellite Radio, OnStar roadside assistance, and more.
The DeVille's Raytheon night vision system was particularly notable. It was the first thermal imaging night vision system offered as original equipment by an auto manufacturer. It was introduced in the 2000 model and sold well with over 7,000 buyers. Sales fell quickly, however, and only 600 systems were sold for 2004. It was dropped in September of that year with just 145 units installed in 2005 vehicles before its demise.
DeVilles are also a popular conversion chassis, most commonly as limousines and hearses, however the Lincoln Town Car is more commonly used as a limousine chassis due to its rear wheel drive and body on frame architecture, which provides a more rigid chassis for a long car. Additionally, a conventional rear wheel drive car is cheaper to maintain in fleets.
[edit] References
- ^ 1954 Cadillac. Motorera.com (November 2007). Retrieved on 2008-04-06.
[edit] See also
[edit] External links
- AutoGuideWiki.com
- Caddyinfo.com - Cadillac Discussion and Technical Information
- Cadillac History - Cadillac History and detailed model information
- 1978-1979 Phaeton - 1978-1979 Cadillac Coupe Deville Phaeton
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| Type | 1980s | 1990s | 2000s | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | |
| Entry-Level | Cimarron | BLS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Catera | CTS | CTS | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mid-size | Seville | Seville | Seville | Seville | STS | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Full-size | DeVille | DeVille | DeVille | DeVille | DTS | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fleetwood | Fleetwood | Fleetwood | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Brougham | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Personal luxury | Eldorado | Eldorado | Eldorado | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Crossover | SRX | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SUV | Escalade | Escalade | Escalade | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Roadster | Allanté | XLR | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
