1979 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham d' Elegance 425 V8

Summary:

A true land yacht; American motoring at its best

Faults:

I have replaced the brake master cylinder twice.

Brake pads twice.

The alternator.

All the belts.

An unresolved issue with the climate control system. I believe the actuator for the blower motor is damaged.

General Comments:

I mostly drove this car while I was in high school. Now it just sits during the winter.

The seats are of course like sitting on your living room furniture.

The climate control was amazing when it still functioned. My favorite feature was that during the winter, you would set it to heat and turn it on, but no air would blow out until it detected that the air would be warm. Why all new cars do not have this feature is beyond me.

It also has a limited slip rear differential; this, combined with its excessive weight, make it a wonderful snow and ice vehicle. I enjoy the ability to steer a large car with only one finger, because of the very powerful power steering.

My original stereo also functions well, it was the top of the line AM/FM, digital display, 8 track, CB radio combo. All of that still functions perfectly. The car is quite reliable, but because of its poor gas mileage (10-12 mpg). A very fun first car for $1250.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th December, 2010