1993 Cadillac DeVille Sedan 4.9 V8

Summary:

Everlasting Cadillac style

Faults:

Not much has gone wrong with this car outside of what I would consider regular maintenance. Most repairs have been the various sensors.

General Comments:

There are some car models that just seem to stay on the road, decades after they were initially sold new. The 89-93 Cadillac Devilles seem to be one of of them. This car lives on 23 years later when many other cars from the same era have long been recycled... and it still does so in such beauty and grace. I am convinced that these were one of the best Cadillacs made.

I've never been left stranded in this car, and I've trusted it on many long road trips, and I am planning on taking it on a 1400 mile round trip in a few weeks for a family reunion. I have passed many, many much newer cars (including newer Cadillacs) on the side of the road, while this 93 just keeps on truckin'. VERY mechanically sound car.

I LOVE the body style of this car, it is a beautiful car to me and I work hard to keep her in mint condition. The interior is equally as nice and has held up amazingly well. Unlike other GM products I've had experience with, none of the buttons are worn or broken, all of the lights still work, the gadgets and gizmos all still work, dash material has not cracked or warped (and feels very high quality to the touch), and none of the trim or panels are loose or coming apart. The interior still feels very tight and solid with absolutely NO squeaks or rattles! The seats are like sofas.

The 4.9 V8 isn't quick, but it is strong. The low end torque provides great seat of the pants acceleration off the line, though highway speed passing isn't quite as thrilling... but it isn't a slouch there either. It is not quick by todays standards, but it is definitely faster than a lot of people expect it to be, and from 0-20, hold on!! If you are not gentle on the throttle, it will sure give you whiplash.

Can't really say enough good things about this car, it's just a great all around traditional American luxury cruiser that is still extremely reliable in its old age, and it has style, class, comfort and features that are long gone in modern cars. I am committed to keeping this car looking and running like new for as long as possible.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 28th August, 2015

29th Aug 2015, 03:04

Good review.

The 4.9 is quite the Torque Monster -

From Car and Driver -

-- 91 Sedan DeVille - 2.73:1 final drive ratio - curb weight = 3616 pounds.

0-60 = 8.5 seconds.

0-100 = 31.5 seconds.

1/4 mile = 16.5 seconds @ 82 MPH.

-- 92 DeVille Touring Sedan - 2.97:1 final drive ratio - curb weight = 3672 pounds.

0-60 = 7.4 seconds.

0-100 = 26.7 seconds.

1/4 mile = 16.0 seconds @ 84 MPH.

Comparing 0-60 & 0-100 times, and elapsed time vs terminal speed in the 1/4 mile, it's safe to say - Torque Monster!!! Gotta say though, pretty amazing what a small change in the final drive ratio does. I guess an 8.7% change in final drive ratio offsets a 1.1% increase in weight ;) Looking at the numbers, methinks there is more than just a final drive ratio change.

One thing - just remember to use the GM coolant sealer tabs to address block porosity issues, or you'll wish you did. While these engines are a MAJOR improvement over their HR4100/4500 predecessors, they're not perfect.

6th Sep 2015, 07:52

The 4.9L engine is probably the reason why the car is still on the road. Of all the Cadillac HT engines, the 4.9 was the best. The 4.5L version was okay, and the 4.1L version was junk.

22nd Sep 2015, 22:35

Watch out for dry rotting and corrosion of electrical components when vehicles get to this age. Worn out hoses and rusted brake lines can also be a problem. Minor issues will happen and seem to be inexpensive repairs for the most part. These 90's Cadillacs seem to be built to last a very long time, as I see so many of them still on the road - even Northstars.

7th Nov 2015, 02:15

I was surprised when I first learned that the 4.5 & 4.9s were HT engines...

1993 Cadillac DeVille Sedan 4.9

Summary:

Awesome American made ride!

Faults:

Nothing major, routine maintenance only, minor repairs.

General Comments:

AWESOME!

Incredible smooth ride and excellent power. Super comfortable.

Nice and tight, and no squeaks, rattles or noises.

I am proud to drive it!... American made!

I get compliments on the car, and I keep it clean and waxed to represent the Cadillac brand.

It's a daily driver and reliable, and I feel good driving a great American Marque!

I did not pay a lot for it compared to the return of how much reliability and enjoyment it brings.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th January, 2012

6th Jan 2012, 19:28

Great review, I had the same car 10 years ago and totally agree with everything you say.

Just keep an eye on the coolant, flush it regularly, add the special tablets, and you will be good to go for many more miles.

7th Jan 2012, 10:53

Thank you! Yes, I maintain the cooling system with flush and fills every two years with de-mineralized water (or coolant that is 50/50 with it already), and add new GM tablets to the new fill.

27th Jan 2012, 17:27

You are right, you don't pay very much for these cars compared to the enjoyment and reliability they bring.

There is no car with a more comfortable interior than an older American luxury car.

I have owned similar cars, and I am proud to own and drive a classic example of fine American made, Detroit steel.

Older Cadillacs, Oldsmobile, Lincolns, full size cars were made for driver enjoyment and interior luxury. Something a lot of newer cars are lacking.