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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 7, 2012 12:41:56 GMT -6
I enjoy reading about, talking about and learning about cars so I figured I'd make this thread to specifically post about cars and their history, information, etc. Feel feel to add info or ask questions, basically anything about cars, old or new.=========================================== Cadillac is my specialty, so I'll start with a history on the Cadillac Deville. I'll also probably do some other GM-Buick and Chevy models, probably even a Ford or two. The de Ville or DEVILLE has been the name Cadillac has used for some of their most expensive, prestigeous and larger models from 1949 until 2005. The name comes from the French language, translating to "of the town". The name shares the same characteristics with other Cadillac model names like Seville and Eldorado. Originally the name de Ville was given for the highest trim level on the 1949 Series 62 coupe model, "Coupe de Ville". Along with the Buick Riviera and Oldsmobile 98 coupes of the same year, it was the first pillarless coupe introduced. The Sedan de Ville name was used in 1956 for Cadillac's first standard production hardtop 4-door vehicle. Once again it was offered as the highest trim level available, and sold extremely well. Given the success of the trim levels, Cadillac decided for the next year they would give the de Ville name it's own seperate model and series for 1959. The first through fifth generations of de Ville were designed by GM designer and artist William Mitchell. 1956 Series 62 Coupe de Ville, one of the earliest examples of stand up tail fins on a vehicle In 1959 Cadillac unveiled a completely redesigned Coupe and Sedan de Ville. This first generation became famous for it's lavish and over the top styling with lots of chrome and huge tail fins with bullet brake lights. Aside from the styling, the model offered lots of technology offered as standard equipment, power steering, power brakes, two speed windshield wipers, vanity mirrors, power windows, power seats, smooth shifting auto trans, back up lamps and an oil filter. There were also different window configurations available, dual exhaust and the powerful 325HP OHV 6.4L and a 4-speed Hyrda-Matic transmission were an extremely good combination. GM enjoyed huge sales the first year, reaching over 50,000. For 1960, there were only slight styling changes, making the car appear more conservative. The '59 and '60 models have became famous and a collectors dream because of their appearance, success and limited production time. Production: 1959-1960 Assembled: Detroit, Michigan Available styles: 4-door 6 window hardtop; 4-door 4 window hardtop; 2-door hardtop Layout: FR Platform: GM C-Body Wheelbase: 130in Length: 225in Width: 80.2in (1959); 79.9in (1960) Height: 56.2in Curb weight: 4,900-5,100 pounds. Pics1959 4-door hardtop 1959 rear 1960 rear, more understated than the '59 1960 Coupe The next production run, second generation de Ville, lasted from 1961-1964. There was new styling between the '61 and '62 models. The redesign for the '63 model remained almost untouched for '64, but there were minor changes. 1964 was also the first de Ville convertible. For this generation, Cadillac increased the insulation around the firewall and under the floor making for increased quitness and a smoother ride. This is the first car that can be said to have the "traditional Cadillac ride". For '61 and '63 the motor was the 6.4L, while in '64 it was upgraded to the larger 7.0L OHV V8 making 340HP. Both motors were carbureted. Two transmissions were available, 4-speed Hydra/Turbo-Matic and a 3-speed automatic (GM TH-400). The previous generation's air suspension was replaced with a rubberized coil spring setup for the front and rear. New additions to standard technology included a remote controlled outside rear view mirror, a new heater and defroster and front cornering lamps. In 1964 the climate control system was upgraded to be completely automatic by a dial thermostat, including air conditioning. This was the first in the automotive industry. Sales were again, very high. The 1964 model is numbered at 110,379 vehicles. Production: 1961-1964 Assembled: Detroit, Michigan Available styles: 4-door 6 window hardtop; 4-door 4 window hardtop; 4-door "Town Sedan" 6 window hardtop; 4-door "Park Avenue" 4 window hardtop; 2-door hardtop; 2-door convertible Layout: FR Platform: GM C-Body Wheelbase: 129.5in Length: 222in (1961-1962); 223in (1963); 223.5in (1964) Width: 79.8in (1961); 79.9in (1962); 79.7in (1963); 179.5in (1964) Height: 56.3in (1961-1963); 56.6in (1963-1964) Curb weight: 4,700-4,900 pounds Pics1961 Coupe 1962 Sedan 1963 Coupe 1964 Convertible By the third generation, 1965-1970, the de Ville had become Cadillac's mainstream model, their meat and potatoes. 1965 saw another redesign, and the loss of the traditionally large tail fins. Edges and body lines became sharper, chrome trim became more conservative. In 1969 the stacked headlight setup was replaced by the side by side style and the vent windows were dropped, this year more closely resembling the Eldorado. The advances in engineering and style increased ride and handling quality. The de Ville retained the 340HP 7.0L until 1968, when it received the 7.7L rated at 375HP. de Ville got by in this generation with a 3-speed auto. New standard equipment after 1967 included a non-glare rear view mirror, electric clock, auto climate controls, padded dash board, hazard warning system, seatbelts and safety features including a seat back lock for coupe models. There was also a slide out fuse box. There were upgrades on the mechanical end as well. New pistons, oil rings, engine and body mounts, a new instrument panel and a quieter, more efficient engine fan and exhaust system. Equipment included for 1968 were a new windshield wiper design with three speeds, 20 exterior paint color combinations with 14 being completely new, molded inner door panels with illuminated reflectors and 147 available upholstery combinations with 4 in vinyl, 76 in cloth and 67 in leather. Standard after 1968 was a trip odometer, ignition warning buzzer, and center seat armrest. 1970 would be the last year the convertible model was offered. In 1970 there were 181,719 de Ville's sold. It accounted for 76% of Cadillac's total sales and it would be the highest sale percentage of a single model in Cadillac's history. Production: 1965-1970 Assembled: Detroit, Michigan Available styles: 4-door hardtop; 4-door sedan; 2-door hardtop; 2-door convertible Layout: FR Platform: GM C-Body Wheelbase: 129.5in Length: 224in (1965-1967); 224.7in (1968); 225in (1969-1970) Width: 79.9in (1965-1968); 79.9in (1969-1970) Height: 55.6in (1965-1968); 56.2in (1969-1970) Curb weight: 4,600-4,900 pounds. PicsRare optioned 1965 Convertible 1968 Sedan, rear view 1969 Sedan with the new side by side headlights Fourth generation and more to come...
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bhfanatik
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Post by bhfanatik on Feb 7, 2012 13:17:01 GMT -6
New 2012 ZL1 Camaro is coming out with a supercharged V8 ... New 2013 GT500 is supposedly suppose to be in the same class as the ZL1. Now I remember when Chevy was down talking the GT500 because it was supercharged looks like they finally found their senses and decided to bolt on some good power for the ZL1. What are your opinions on this?
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Post by Tyler on Feb 7, 2012 15:26:22 GMT -6
New 2012 ZL1 Camaro is coming out with a supercharged V8 ... New 2013 GT500 is supposedly suppose to be in the same class as the ZL1. Now I remember when Chevy was down talking the GT500 because it was supercharged looks like they finally found their senses and decided to bolt on some good power for the ZL1. What are your opinions on this? Its a nice looking car, but won't ever beat the Snake. SVT knows what they are doing, and it's not that the GT500 is now going to be in the same class as the ZL1, the ZL1 is finally going to be Chevy's car in the GT500s class. Good luck to them though.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Feb 7, 2012 15:30:39 GMT -6
Yeah I saw that the new GT500's are getting a 100 hp boost to now produce 650 which is amazing for a car that price.
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359er
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Post by 359er on Feb 7, 2012 19:42:05 GMT -6
I'll post the first question ;D What year did Chevy start making the RS Camaro? I thought the first year for those was 1969 but i've seen some 67's and 68's, but they all have small blocks in them. I thought the RS only had big blocks?
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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 7, 2012 20:41:48 GMT -6
Exactly^
But the GT500 will still be a fun toy.
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Post by Deleted on Feb 7, 2012 21:04:23 GMT -6
7:41.27 Camaro ZL1 (2012) 7:41.50 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 I find this interesting to say the least.. The times are basically the same but the cars have 2 difference prices on them. But yeah I agree with you with a muscle car in a super car dress, that time is impressive.
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bhfanatik
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Post by bhfanatik on Feb 7, 2012 21:04:37 GMT -6
Steve does have a point, it;s not all about horsepower and who can do the 1/4 faster, it also depends on how well the car can take turns. That is where the Camaro wins but for how long till Ford maybe does something like that?
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Post by Tyler on Feb 7, 2012 22:13:55 GMT -6
Just watch Ford the next couple years, the Mustang will be right up there with the "Supercar in a Muscle car skin." Not bashing the Camaro, I like both cars and the ZL1 is a great piece of machinery. I think Dodge needs to get their head in the game with something supercar-ish.
On another note, anyone else read about the new SRT Viper for 2013? Dodge no longer owns the Viper name, SRT does.
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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 7, 2012 23:06:49 GMT -6
Continuing with the Deville history... Fourth gen, 1971-1976 saw another redesign. This generation only had minor appearance changes between years, most notably the new bumper styles and square headlights for 1975. The 7.7L remained the standard engine, with an 8.2L becoming available. The biggest initial upgrade from previous years was the vehicle's increased size. The interior space set a world record. Coupe de Ville's continued, but '73 was the final year for the traditional hardtop style. In 1974 the option for an airbag system was made available, with two airbags, one for the driver and passenger. New options introduced in this generation included a padded landau roof, a "d'Elegance package" which added velour upholstery, upgraded interior padding and carpeting, seatback storage pockets, standup hood ornament and body stripes. Other options were fender lamp monitors on the fenders, power door locks with an automatic locking feature when the vehicle is shifted out of park, high energy ignition, steel-belted tires, an astroroof with sunshade that could double as a sunroof or skylight, maintenance free battery, TrackMaster skid prevention system, new pillow style seat cushions and a drivers seatback recliner system. There were also a number of new paint colors introduced. Production: 1971-1976 Assembled: Detroit, Michigan; Linden, New Jersey Available styles: 4-door hardtop; 2-door coupe; 2-door hardtop Layout: FR Platform: GM C-Body Wheelbase: 130in Length: 225.8in (1971); 227.4in (1972); 227.8in (1973); 230.7in (1974-1976) Width: 79.8in (All years) Height: 54.5in (1971-1973); 54.6in (1974); 54.3in (1975-1976) Curb weight: 4,900-5,400 pounds Pics1972 Sedan rear view 1973 Sedan 1974 Sedan; Note the stand up hood ornament and "heritage of ownership" badge on the grill 1975 Coupe with slight redesign Generation five, produced from 1977 to 1984 was downsized from the previous de Ville's in GM's response to the gas crisis and demands on fuel efficiency. The new deville's weighed in around half a ton lighter than the previous years, and had smaller wheelbases and exterior demensions, but space remained similar, actually adding leg and head room. The new 7.0L engine for 1977 replaced the previous 7.7L and 8.2L's. In 1977, customers had the option of an electronically fuel injected version of the motor. de Ville packages included the d'Elegance package, brought back as a $650+ option. A new "Phaeton" package was added as a $2,000 dollar option, offering three rare colors at any given time among other interior and exterior options. This package would be discontinued for 1980. The Coupe received a Cabriolet package. A number of various engines were made available throughout this generation in gas and diesel, including a 6.0L V8, the 5.7L V8-6-4, a 4.1L V6 manufacturered by Buick Division and the 4.1L HT-4100 V8 which would replace the V8-6-4. In 1984, Cadillac was waiting on the new front wheel drive model. Sales through this generation were solid, and this could be called the last "big" traditional rear wheel drive de Ville. 1984 was also the final year Cadillac would use the V emblem below the crest. Production: 1977-1984 Assembled: Detroit, Michigan Available styles: 4-door sedan; 2-door coupe Layout: FR Platform: GM C-Body; GM D-Body (For limo's) Wheelbase: 121.5in (1977-1979, 1983-1984); 121.4in (1980-1982) Length: 221.2in (1977-1979); 221in (1980-1986) Width: 75.4in Height: 57.2in Curb weight: 4,000-4,400 pounds Pics1978 Sedan 1979 Coupe de Ville featured in Goodfellas; the car has the optional Phaeton package in the rarest color combo, Firemist Metallic 1984 Coupe For the sixth generation, the biggest obvious changes were the new FWD C-Body platform, and the much smaller demensions. The vehicle was advertised as the "Cadillac of tomorrow". There were some new convenience/technological features and slight styling changes along the way, but the car remained almost the same. Engines were the HT-4100 through 4900 series. As well as a diesel V6. The Coupe de Ville would see it's final production in 1993. Cadillac's biggest competition at the time was Lincoln, but now they also had to contend with Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Mercedes, etc. Cadillac was planning a new DEVILLE for 1994, and they had a completely new design and a brand new engine to grace the top trim model. Production: 1985-1993 Assembled: Lake Orion, Michigan Available styles: 4-door sedan; 2-door coupe Layout: FF Platform: GM C-Body Wheelbase: 110.8in (1985-1988); 113.8in (1989-1993) Length: 195-202.7in Width: 71.7in (1987-1988); 72.5in (1989); 73.4in (1991-1993) Height: 54.9-55.2in Curb weight: 3,500-3,900 pounds PicsSedan and Coupe models The seventh generation can be split up into two segments, 1994 through 1996 saw a redesign from the previous generation. In 1997 Cadillac gave the car a slight facelift. The traditional de Ville script would be changed to DEVILLE in all capitol letters, also dropping the cursive font. The car appealed more the traditional Cadillac buyers than the previous generation due to it's increase in side and more classic styling. The tail lights were set back from the body, thin and verticle, reminiscent of tail fins from the past. The car remained front wheel drive, but the platform was changed to GM's K-Body. Throughout this generation the trim levels included a base, d'Elegance and Concours. There was also a rare "Fleetwood" Deville produced, which included added convenience and luxury features, and a longer wheelbase with extra passenger room. For 1994-'96, only the Concours received the all new Northstar V8. Horsepower outputs varied on the Northstar, the highest being on the Concours in 1996-1999 at 300HP and 295 ft-lbs torque at 4,400RPM. This made the Deville Concours one of the most powerful front wheel drive sedans ever built. After 1997 all Deville's would come standard with the Northstar, but only the top trim level offered the 300HP variant, or L37 VIN 9. The VIN 9 was tuned for top end power, making accelleration easier at speeds over 60MPH. The LD8 VIN Y Northstar had 275HP and 300 ft-lbs torque at 4,750RPM, tuned for better performance getting around town. Before the Northstar became standard, lower trim Deville's were equipped with Cadillac's 4.9L L26 offering 200HP and 275ft-lbs torque at 3,000RPM. The motor was favored by some due to it's simplicity. The Northstar was available with one transmission, the 4T80 4-speed automatic. The L26 was paired with the 4T60 4-speed automatic. There were also big improvements to interior styling and features, with new safety equipment. OnStar became exclusively available to the Cadillac Deville and Seville in 1997. There was also the addition of traction control and GM's StabiliTrak stability control system also exclusive to Cadillac at the time. Production: 1994-1999 Assembled: Hamtramck Plant, Michigan Available styles: 4-door sedan Layout: FF Platform: GM K-Body Wheelbase: 113.8in Length: 209.7in (1994-1996); 209.8in (1997-1999) Width: 76.5in Height: 56.4in Curb weight: 4,000-4,300 pounds Pics1994 Concours 1994 interior, completely digital instrument panel and driver information system 1994 Concours cutaway, detailing the "Northstar System" and features Deville after the slight redesign I'll do the final generation when I have more time, as there's a lot to talk about.
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Post by Deleted on Feb 8, 2012 7:27:30 GMT -6
What bothers me is that Dodge keeps playing with the Charger. I believe they need to look at the Challenger as a way to keep up with the Shelby and ZL1. I just don't like how Dodge is using a sedan to keep up. If they're going to use it at least come out with a coupe version or something. Now don't get me wrong I like the Chargers but not near as much as I like the Challengers.
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Illousion
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Post by Illousion on Feb 8, 2012 13:48:11 GMT -6
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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 8, 2012 16:00:14 GMT -6
Wow man, that's really awesome. I hope you guys buy her and take good care of her. Not many good oldies in that good condition anymore. I RARELY see any of those old Broughams in such good shape. Change the fluids and she'll be like new. Love the wheels, those old wire wheels with the red center are gorgeous, but a pain to shine up lol. I'm sure you'd take care of them though. EDIT: Last part on Deville's history, Lastly, the eighth and final generation of the Deville which ran from 2000-2005. This final model had a complete redesign for 2000. The design was part of the begining of the "Art and Science" theme Cadillac was adopting. It borrowed some styling cues from the Seville and was the most technologically advanced Deville ever. The exterior styling remained elegant, but had a much sportier and aerodynamic design. The design itself greatly increased handling characteristics while lowering drag coefficient. The interior also benefited from a visual facelift, but many of the key components and materials were borrowed from the previous generation. All trims of the Deville from 2000-2005 came with the 32-valve Northstar V8. There were two variants of the motor (L37 and LD8), just like in the previous generation Deville. Deville had three trim levels; Base, DHS (Deville High Luxury Sedan) and DTS (Deville Touring Sedan). There was also an "Armored Deville" built specifically for Secret Service and Presidential use with more interior room, run flat tires, armor plating, thicker glass, etc. As well as a long wheelbase fleet version and thousands of limo and funeral coach Deville's. Base model Devilles had the standard features offered to Deville, column shifter, split bench seats, stand up hood ornament, chrome egg-crate or billet style grill, air ride suspension with available options for extra cost. DHS models had all the features of the Base, but some added goodies and optional features not available on Base models. DTS was the top trim model, and was packed with all the cutting edge technology Cadillac had to offer. Much of the technology was shared with the 1998-2003 Seville STS. DTS's purpose was to be a sportier and better handling version of Deville lineup by taking all the technology from the STS that wowed the world. Geared for younger buyers and more spirited driving, it included exclusive features such as: -300HP/295HP 295ft-lbs torque at 4,400RPM Northstar V8 L37. -Continually Variable Road Sensing Suspension or CVRSS 2.0 with front and rear stabilizer bars. This is an active suspensive system, upgraded from the previous generation, and the paving force for Magnetic Ride Control. The system has a control module and air compressor that use a steering sensor and a number of wheel and shock position sensors and dampers that adjust ride height, stiffness or softness depending on speed, road surface, conditions and other factors. The system's control module senses these conditions, and adjusts the ride height, shocks and struts accordingly in ten to twelve milliseconds, which is much less time than it takes for the human eye to blink. It gives the driver great road feel and control of the car at any speed. -Speed Sensitive Steering System which works with the CVRSS system as well as aiding with ease of steering at low speeds, and better steering feel at higher speeds. This system received upgrades on later model Deville's and was named MagnaSteer. -Performance Algorithm Shifting or PAS (First available in 2001 and shared with Seville STS) which turns the transmission into the equivalent of a manual shifting transmission based on pedal input by the driver. The transmission will hold gears longer and keeps the engine in the best possible gear and powerband based on the driver's input. The system only engages under forceful and fast paced driving and maneuvering. -Standard Ultra Rear Sonic Parking Assist or URPA -Delco-Bosch Anti-Lock brake system with 4 channels, 4 sensors and electronic proportioning. -Console shifter, exclusive to DTS. -Standard heated and cooled seats with lumbar support and massage feature; heated/wood grain steering wheel. Standard fog lamps. -Premium Bose Sound System, exclusive to DTS. -Digital analog instrument panel, exclusive to DTS. -Premium wheels exclusive to DTS, Chrome 17"x 7". There were also lots of other standard and available options for all trim level Deville's. Some of the most notable include: -275HP 300ft-lbs torque at 4,750RPM Northstar V8 LD8 on Base and DHS. -Completely LED tail lamps and third brake light, a first in the automotive industry for a passenger vehicle; Standard on all Devilles. -Available Night Vision System (2000-2004) based on US Military technology. A camera mounted in the vehicle's grill captures the surroundings in front of the vehicle and projects them in thermal display via a transparent HUD below the driver's line of sight. Hot objects appear white while cool objects are darker. Another first in the industry. -Available entertainment/navigation system, one of the first modern examples available in a passenger vehicle. -StabiliTrak 2.0 -Traction Control -Road Texture Detection -Virtually hundreds of programmed warning and informational messages based on driving conditions and status of vehicle systems. -An onboard diagnostic trouble code reader, accessable via the DIC which monitors all vehicles systems. -Available side curtain airbags, one of the first vehicles in the industry to offer the feature. -Digital instrument panel -Intelligent transmission shifting when out of Drive(D). If driver shifts into 2nd or 3rd, the vehicle will still shift intelligently based on speed and driving conditons, while retaining the desired characters of the selected gear. -Rear electronic level control or ELC. -Dual exhaust with quad chrome tips. -Greater chassis and structural rigidity. Base pricing was initially $41,990. Fully equipped DTS models sold for over $50-$55,000. This last generation Deville sold very well and received praise for it's technology, performance and safety. The final unit rolled off the assembly line in June 2005. It was the retirment of the Deville name, which was a Cadillac staple for nearly 60 years. Deville would be replaced by the 2006 DTS, taking it's name from the Deville's top trim model. Many consider the Deville DHS to be the last "traditional" or "real" Cadillac because of it's size, space, engine tuning and soft riding suspension. Production: 2000-2005 Assembled: Hamtramck Plant, Michigan Available styles: 4-door sedan Layout: FF Platform: GM K-Body Wheelbase: 115.3in Length: 207.2in Width: 76.5in Height: 56.7in Weight: 3,800-4,200 pounds PicsIntroduction of the new Cadillac Deville in 2000, this model being a DTS Early Navigation system, most likely from 2000-2001 Cabin view of a DTS, most likely a 2003+ due to the newer navigation system GM illustration of the Deville's LED tail lamps View of the Night Vision display A 2003, visable as a DHS from the lack of a hood ornament and dark colored grill
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Post by Tom Sawyer on Feb 8, 2012 16:56:40 GMT -6
What bothers me is that Dodge keeps playing with the Charger. I believe they need to look at the Challenger as a way to keep up with the Shelby and ZL1. I just don't like how Dodge is using a sedan to keep up. If they're going to use it at least come out with a coupe version or something. Now don't get me wrong I like the Chargers but not near as much as I like the Challengers. I think the Charger looks pretty good the way it is now. Just my 2 cents though But yes, a coupe version would be awesome.
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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 9, 2012 12:56:26 GMT -6
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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 13, 2012 14:13:34 GMT -6
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Post by harleyoutlaw on Feb 13, 2012 14:52:56 GMT -6
Didn't cadilac also make the first 8 cylinder back in the day before the flathead ford came out?
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Illousion
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Post by Illousion on Feb 13, 2012 15:40:58 GMT -6
Got the '78 right here at home aswell. Great flashbacks of our 1978 Sedan deVille.
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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 13, 2012 15:55:49 GMT -6
The '78 one is great. Really love it.
The first V8 Cadillac built was in 1914, also a flathead, 90 degree, water cooled, 70HP. It was the first V8 mass produced. They also mass produced some V12's and V16's from I think 1930-'40. The V16 was pretty popular for a while in the 30's.
Ford built their flathead from 1932-50-somthing. From what I remember the best thing about the engine was the way it was casted. I'll take a peek tonight.
EDIT: It's an interesting point how the V8 has always been the main motor of choice but as time is passing it's become the V6 and you could even now argue the I4. Back in those days a V16 was what people now think a V8 is. Although with the way they are tuning smaller engines now, you get more power output. But you still don't get the smoothness and low end torque of a V8.
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Post by harleyoutlaw on Feb 13, 2012 16:13:18 GMT -6
Im more of a flathead ford guy myself, but the interesting thing is caddy had the first 8 on the market from my understanding.
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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 13, 2012 18:50:16 GMT -6
Well, the first to actually build a V8 in an automobile was Rolls Royce in the early 1900's, but they only made a small handful. That motor was groundbreaking, and deserves a lot of credit. But people in America had no idea what it even was. So when Cadillac came out with the L-Head; mass produced, reliable and extremely fast for the time, it was almost like the first ever. I've always loved cars since I was little but I didn't realize until I was older (like 16-17 years old) just how much of a role Cadillac played in the advancment of the industry, which is why I became so interested in them. Like I had no idea they were the first to have an electric starter and lighting before 1915 until I read about it. Even if you don't like Cadillac, you have to appreciate what they've done. You'd be surprised at their list of accomplishments. I was when I started doing research.
It's funny actually, when Cadillac started producing the L in 1915, they were sold by Henry Leland to GM. So Leland founded Lincoln, which was then bought by Ford in the 20's. So Cadillac and Lincoln were both founded by the same guy. Its ironic how Caddy and Lincoln were big rivals until imports started showing up, and they were both founded by the same guy and for a period, partially run by the same guy at the same time. Lincoln also had a mass produced V8 in the 20's that was also pretty successful. Leland was the man though, and IMO he and Dave Buick are the reason for the American auto industry's existance.
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Post by harleyoutlaw on Feb 13, 2012 19:01:29 GMT -6
Yeah you really gotta tip your hat to Cadilac as far as the L model goes. Ill still put my money on the Flathead v8 ford though!
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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 13, 2012 20:52:29 GMT -6
The Ford flathead is definitaly bad ass. Hot rods helped make that motor famous.
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Post by Red Dragon Negotiator on Feb 14, 2012 12:31:10 GMT -6
I want to briefly mention a couple of my favorite Buick cars. The 1941-'48 Roadmaster 2-door and 1954 Roadmaster. Also the 1955-'57 Special 2-door. For 1947 the Roadmaster had a slight redesign as well as new features including Buick's new Dyna-Flow transmission with torque conversion. It was offered with Buick's Fireball Inline 8, 320cu". The 1954 Roadmaster was the only year to be built with that design. Pics 1941 Roadmaster Convertible custom built by George Barris. 1948 Convertible 1954 Convertible Interior Rear view ======================================= The Buick Special was a line that ran from way back in 1936 to 1969. It was one of Buick's most successful models, and would be renamed LeSabre for 1970. For the duration of their existance, Specials would be built in Flint, Michigan; and Framingham Massachusetts. I've always loved the 1955-'57 Special Riviera. The '55-'57 2-door convertible and hardtop is actually one of my favorite cars ever. One of my favorite thing being the body lines. The 1955-'57 Special had the eye-catching sweep line down the body, common on most Buick's of the time, fender port holes and Dynaflow transmission. From '55-'57 the engines offered were 264cu", 322cu", and 364cu" making between 188 and 300HP. A '57 2-door hardtop Special Riviera Quick video of a '57 4-door Pics '57 Special Riviera hardtop. Interior '55 Special Convertible '56 4-door Special
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Illousion
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Post by Illousion on Feb 14, 2012 12:46:24 GMT -6
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