1994 Cadillac Fleetwood 5.7 litre LT1 from North America

Summary:

This Cadillac is truly the standard of the world!

Faults:

Transmission cooler line leaked at 196000km.

Upper ball joint failed at 220000.

General Comments:

What can I say, it's a Cadillac! This car is the most reliable car I have ever owned!

In my opinion, it is the last of the real Cadillacs.

Also, the styling is just outstanding for a large car! It is big, with lots of chrome!

This car handles very well, and is quiet, except when I open her up!

What can I say about the LT1 5.7litre V8? This engine is a real powerhouse!

This Cadillac will accelerate to neck snapping speeds in no time!

I added a cold intake system, which improved the performance even more.

I also use this behemoth to tow my camper trailer on trips, which it does like there was nothing in tow!

I also recently went on a tour with my band. The car was loaded up with 5 adults, trunk full, and a utility trailer behind. We drove through the countryside, going up and down mountains with no loss of power!

On top of this, the fuel mileage is quite impressive for a car that tips the scales at 4300 lb!

On a recent trip to South Carolina, I averaged 28 MPG on the freeway!

Would I buy another one? Heck yeah!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th November, 2013

1994 Cadillac Fleetwood Base model 5.7 LT1 from North America

Summary:

A Black Stallion

Faults:

Easily the best car I have ever owned or driven. And I have owned 56 cars...

This car had sat in a driveway for years, somewhat neglected. Sometimes started, but basically just baking in the sun and shivering in the snow year after year. Black with black leather. I bought it for $2750 from the original owners and did a complete fluid change and spark plugs. A new set of tires, and this car turned into a magnificent black stallion! Very responsive and powerful for such a big car. It is surprisingly nimble and 80mph on the freeway yields 25 MPG.

I have extensively compared this car's abilities with even Mercedes-Benz's flagship mid '1990's 560S classes. In my opinion it is evenly matched, and was about half the price new...

General Comments:

This car was magnificently engineered. The LT1 inspired engine feels like high performance because of the 'roller' valve train components. I did not think you could feel friction with an engine, but with almost complete lack of it, with this car, you can feel its absence.

Low torque starter motor for long life, and the chrome body panels are as heavy duty as some 1960's cars. The command center is very comfortable too.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th February, 2013

1994 Cadillac Fleetwood Base 5.7 from North America

Summary:

The Swan Song of the real Cadillacs

Faults:

Rear shocks worn (replaced all 4 with Bilsteins and lowering springs).

Fuel pump at 115k.

Power steering pump at 122k.

Whitewall tires are hard to find and expensive. (blackwalls are very cheap though)

General Comments:

This car is basically a Long Wheelbase Impala SS. And that's a good thing. The extra weight and taller tires really help the car soak up bumps and give it a great ride. The LT1 v8 is far superior to the Northstar in terms of reliability and power. The Northstar may have a higher horsepower rating, but the LT1 has a much better power curve and higher torque, which is better suited for a nearly 5000 lb car. Cruises comfortably at 70 all day.

Parking can be a challenge at nearly 20 ft long, but you can turn the wheel with your pinky finger. Even the stereo, for being a 17 year old car, is very good. Mind you, I am coming from a 2001 Volvo S80.

I can tell you, the only advantages the S80 had was a sunroof and keyless entry. I'm not the kind of person who needs a bunch of fancy gadgets in my car, I just want leather seats, effortless driving and a cushy ride. Very few modern cars can compare to these old Caddy's in those area's.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd February, 2011

30th Oct 2011, 08:09

I'm now at 136k. I've had to replace the water pump and the belt tensioner since my review. I did paint the car as well, but that was only for a change; the factory paint was still quite good.