The Unappealing Options
Sometimes life presents us with poor choices, like selecting between a documentary on lutefisk history or a Pauly Shore movie at the cinema. The automotive world of the early 1980s was much like that, particularly when it came to luxury cars. Today, we’re comparing two cars that embody the missteps of that era that are anything but refined, tasteful, or classic.
The American car industry was in a challenging state in the early 1980s. Horsepower had become a distant memory, and build quality was often subpar. However, marketing departments were in full swing, promising technological advancements that would revitalize the industry. Unfortunately, the actual technological progress was inconsistent. Digital dashboard gauges displayed vital stats for carbureted engines, creating an air of unearned optimism.
Let’s examine two such cars: the 1983 Cadillac Seville and the 1984 Chrysler Executive Limousine. The question is: have they become ironically cool with age, or are they simply used-up relics best left in the 1980s?
1983 Cadillac Seville – $4,500
- Engine/Drivetrain: 4.1-liter overhead valve V8, four-speed automatic, FWD
- Location: Cocoa, FL
- Odometer reading: 88,000 miles
- Operational status: Runs and drives well
Cadillac’s attempts to shed its old-people image in the 70s and 80s were unsuccessful. The second-generation Seville, while built on a modern front-wheel-drive platform, featured styling inspired by 1930s Cadillacs. The ‘High Technology’ 4100 V8 engine in this model is prone to issues like head and intake manifold gasket leaks, oil pump failures, and overheating. Despite these problems, it’s considered the better choice between the two.
The interior is classic Cadillac, with fake wood, real leather, and power features operated by chrome buttons and switches. However, some features like power windows, windshield wipers, and the radio are non-functional. The air conditioning, on the other hand, is ice cold. The ‘bustleback’ rear styling is distinctive, though controversial. The fake convertible ‘carriage’ top is particularly criticized, likened to a bad toupee.
1984 Chrysler Executive Limousine – $6,500
- Engine/Drivetrain: 2.6-liter overhead cam inline 4, three-speed automatic, FWD
- Location: Gilberts, IL
- Odometer reading: 190,000 miles
- Operational status: Runs and drives well
The Chrysler Executive Limousine is the result of turning a K-car into a factory stretch limo. Chrysler only sold about 1,700 of these in four years, indicating a lack of demand. The Mitsubishi-sourced 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine struggles with the added weight, making it underpowered. Despite this, it has a unique feature – a divider between the front and rear passenger compartments.
The limousine has a big soft bench seat and two rear-facing jump seats in the back. It also appears to have a TV, based on the presence of a boomerang-shaped antenna on the trunk lid. While it’s shiny outside, there’s some rust starting to appear along the bottom edge of the vinyl top.
The Verdict
Both cars are absurd, sloppily made, and grossly underpowered. However, they could be conversation-starters in the right company. The choice between them depends on whether you prefer the oddly-shaped Caddy with electrical issues or the overgrown LeBaron with delusions of grandeur.
Reader Opinions
Readers are divided, with some appreciating the uniqueness of these cars and others lamenting their poor performance and design. The Chrysler limousine, in particular, is noted for its absurdity and lack of purpose. Some see potential in these cars for project vehicles or unique additions to car collections.
Conclusion
While neither car is a good choice in the classical sense, they both have their quirks and could be interesting additions to certain car enthusiast collections. Their high prices, however, make them less appealing to potential buyers.
