Cadillac Seville (1980-85)

Overview: The **1980–1985 Cadillac Seville** was a bold departure from traditional American luxury design, marking a significant shift in Cadillac’s approach to styling and engineering. 

**Key Significance**

- **Bustle-Back Design**: The second-generation Seville introduced the **distinctive “bustle-back” rear end**, inspired by classic European luxury cars like Rolls-Royce. This unconventional styling made it one of Cadillac’s most polarizing designs.

- **Front-Wheel Drive**: Unlike its predecessor, the 1980 Seville adopted **front-wheel drive**, sharing its platform with the **Eldorado, Oldsmobile Toronado, and Buick Riviera**. This change improved interior space and handling.

- **Advanced Technology**: It featured **four-wheel independent suspension, electronic suspension leveling, and fuel injection**, making it one of GM’s most technologically advanced cars at the time.

- **Luxury & Prestige**: Cadillac positioned the Seville as a **high-end luxury sedan**, competing with **Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar**. Despite mixed reactions to its styling, it remained a **status symbol** for affluent buyers.

While the **bustle-back design** was controversial, the Seville helped Cadillac **modernize its engineering** and set the stage for future models like the **Cadillac STS**. 

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COMMON FAULTS

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The 1980 Cadillac Seville, like many classic cars, had its share of common faults. Here are some of the issues that owners have reported:

1. **Starting Issues**: Some owners experienced problems with the car starting, where it would crank but not start. This could be due to fuel delivery issues, such as a faulty fuel pump or fuel filter.

2. **Electrical Problems**: Various electrical issues were common, including problems with the power windows, climate control systems, and dashboard displays.

3. **Engine Performance**: The engine could sometimes sputter and die without warning, which might be related to the fuel system or ignition system.

4. **Transmission Issues**: Owners reported problems with the transmission, including rough shifting and delayed engagement.

5. **Cooling System**: Overheating was a common issue, often due to a failing radiator or water pump. Despite these issues, the 1980 Cadillac Seville remains a beloved classic for its distinctive design and luxury features.

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Generations/Trim Levels

The Cadillac Seville has gone through several generations and trim levels over the years. Here's a breakdown:

Generations 1. First Generation (1976-1979):

The original Seville was introduced as a smaller, more fuel-efficient luxury car.

2. Second Generation (1980-1985): This generation featured a distinctive bustle-back design and front-wheel drive.

3. Third Generation (1986-1991): The Seville was redesigned with a more aerodynamic shape and continued with front-wheel drive.

4. Fourth Generation (1992-1997): This generation saw further refinements in design and technology, including the introduction of the Northstar V8 engine.

5. **Fifth Generation (1998-2004): The final generation of the Seville featured a more modern design and advanced features.

Trim Levels

1. **Base**: The standard trim level with essential luxury features.

2. **Elegante**: A higher-end trim with additional luxury and comfort features.

3. **STS (Seville Touring Sedan)**: A sportier trim with performance enhancements and upgraded suspension.

4. **SLS (Seville Luxury Sedan)**: Focused on providing a more luxurious and comfortable ride. These generations and trim levels reflect the evolution of the Cadillac Seville as a luxury vehicle over the years.

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Designer

The **1980–1985 Cadillac Seville** was designed by **Wayne Kady**, a prominent General Motors designer. Kady was responsible for the **distinctive “bustle-back” styling**, which was inspired by classic European luxury cars like **Rolls-Royce**. This design choice made the second-generation Seville one of Cadillac’s most polarizing models, but it also reinforced its **high-end, sophisticated image**.

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Dimensions

The 1980-1985 Cadillac Seville had the following dimensions: - **Length**: 204.0 inches (5,180 mm) - **Width**: 71.8 inches (1,820 mm) - **Height**: 54.6 inches (1,390 mm) - **Wheelbase**: 114.3 inches (2,900 mm) - **Curb Weight**: Approximately 4,340 lbs (1,970 kg) These dimensions contributed to the Seville's distinctive and elegant appearance, making it a standout luxury vehicle of its time.

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Production Total: The production total for the **1983 Cadillac Seville Elegante** was **30,430 units**. This model was part of the second generation of the Seville, which was produced from 1980 to 1985.

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Price New: In 1983, the **Cadillac Seville Elegante** was priced at approximately **£15,000** in the UK. This luxury sedan was known for its premium features and sophisticated design, making it a popular choice among buyers looking for a high-end vehicle.

Using inflation data, **£15,000 in 1983** is approximately **£46,000 in 2025**. This calculation takes into account the average annual inflation rate over the years.

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Main Rivals (Prices)

In 1983, the main rivals of the **Cadillac Seville Elegante** in the UK included luxury cars like the **Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit**, **Jaguar XJ6**, and **Mercedes-Benz 380SEL**. Here are their approximate new prices:

- **Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit**: Around **£35,000**

- **Jaguar XJ6**: Around **£12,000**

- **Mercedes-Benz 380SEL**: Around **£15,000**

These cars were known for their luxury, performance, and prestige, much like the Cadillac Seville Elegante.

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Engine/s

The 1980 Cadillac Seville came with two engine options:

1. **6.0L V8 (L62)**: This naturally aspirated petrol engine had a displacement of 6 Litres and produced 145 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 2000 rpm.

2. **5.7L V8 (L49)**: This naturally aspirated petrol engine had a displacement of 5.7 Litres and produced 160 horsepower at 4400 rpm and 265 lb-ft of torque at 1600 rpm. These engines provided the Seville with smooth and robust performance, making it a luxurious and capable vehicle for its time.

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Performance

The 1980 Cadillac Seville was designed as a luxury vehicle, so its performance was more focused on comfort and smoothness rather than outright speed. However, it still offered respectable performance for its class: -

**Engine**: 6.0L V8 (L62) or 5.7L V8 (L49) - **Power**: 145-160 horsepower - **Torque**: 265-270 lb-ft - **0-60 mph**: Approximately 11-12 seconds - **Top Speed**: Around 110 mph

These specifications provided the Seville with a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for those seeking luxury and refinement.

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Recorded in UK 2025

I couldn't find the exact number of **1983 Cadillac Seville Elegante** cars registered in the UK in 2025. However, given its popularity and status as a classic car, it's likely that there are a limited number of these vehicles still on the road.

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Spares/Specialists NI

You can find spare parts for the 1965 Cadillac Fleetwood in the UK and Ireland from several sources:

1. **[eBay](https://www.ebay.co.uk/b/bn_7013558293)**: A wide range of parts for various Cadillac Fleetwood models.

2. **[OPGI](https://www.opgi.com/fleetwood/1965/)**: High-quality parts and accessories for the 1965 Cadillac Fleetwood.

3. **[Auto Parts Pro] (https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/cadillac-fleetwood-carparts)**: Original spares for Cadillac Fleetwood. As for garage services in Northern Ireland, there are several options available for maintaining a Cadillac Fleetwood:

1. **[James Jackson's Central Garage](https://www.jamesjacksonscentralgarage.com/)**: Located in Fleetwood, they specialize in vehicle repairs, annual MOT testing, and general maintenance.

2. **[John Jenkinson's Garage](https://johnjenkinson.uk/)**: Located in Fleetwood, they offer exceptional servicing and maintenance solutions.

3. **[Wyre Tyres Ltd](https://fleetwood.cylex-uk.co.uk/garages/)**: An independent family-run company providing high-quality services, including full MOT testing and repairs. These garages should be able to provide the necessary maintenance and repairs for your Cadillac Fleetwood.

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Racing N/A

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Valuation

The value of a 1980-1985 Cadillac Seville in the UK can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and any modifications. Here are some approximate values based on condition:

- **Excellent Condition**: Around £14,500

- **Good Condition**: Approximately £10,000

- **Fair Condition**: Prices can be lower, depending on the specific condition and market demand.

For a more precise valuation, you can check resources like [CarSite](https://www.carsite.co.uk/used-car-price-guide/cadillac/seville) or [Car and Classic] (https://www.carandclassic.com/era/8/14/) to get an idea of the current market trends and specific prices for different Seville models.

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Clubs

While there isn't a **Cadillac-specific** owners club exclusively for **Northern Ireland**, you can still connect with Cadillac enthusiasts through the **Cadillac Owners Club of Great Britain (COCGB)**, which is affiliated with the **Cadillac LaSalle Club of America**. They organize events, provide resources, and have a strong community of Cadillac owners across the UK.

You can also check the **List of Vehicle Owners Clubs** on the **GOV.UK** website, which includes various classic car clubs that may have Cadillac owners in Northern Ireland. Additionally, general **classic car clubs** in Northern Ireland, such as those listed on **Car and Classic**, often welcome Cadillac owners.

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HISTORY - ENVIRONMENT

PLEASE NOTE: The information provided below is given in averages across Northern Ireland at the date specified. Petrol reflect average prices for four star fuel in litres.

Road Tax: In 1983, the road tax (also known as Vehicle Excise Duty) for a **Cadillac Seville Elegante** in the UK would have been based on the vehicle's engine capacity and type. Given that the Seville Elegante had a **5.7-liter V8 engine**, the annual road tax would have been approximately **£65**.

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Petrol: The price of four star petrol per litre in the UK in 1983 was 36.7 pence per litre.

Using inflation data, **36.7 pence in 1983** is approximately **£1.00 in 2025**. This calculation takes into account the average annual inflation rate over the years.

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Insurance: While we cannot provide an exact average price of fully comprehensive insurance in the UK in 1983 for a Cadillac Seville Elegante, we can estimate that it would have been around £500-£1000 per year.

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