1998 Cadillac DeVille D'elegance 4.6 litre Northstar
Summary:
The return of the North American luxury car, finally
Faults:
No major faults or breakdowns of the car. Only service required has been replacement of brakes.
Replaced first battery after 3 years use.
General Comments:
This car is an outstanding performer. There is plenty of power from the engine and the transmission always knows when to downshift even with the slightest increase in throttle.
Dual zone climate control works well.
Plenty of room for front and rear passengers.
Excellent acceleration, excellent ride, but it tends to lean a bit on fast corners. Very quiet and comfortable car, great for traveling 1000 plus miles per day on long trips.
Rain sensing windshield wipers have to be one of the best ideas ever dreamed up by General Motors.
The interior is a bit prone to staining easily.
Factory tires give very poor traction on slippery surfaces, car becomes a toboggan in the winter time.
Excellent factory sound system.
Engine has a bit of an appetite for oil, but there are no leaks or smoke from the exhaust.
The heated seats are also an excellent idea, but only work if somebody is sitting on the seat, so after letting the car warm up for a few minutes in the morning, one still sits on cold leather.
A solid, well made high performance car. A drastic improvement over the 80's models with the 4.1 liter V-8.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 15th February, 2004
25th Jan 2005, 14:00
I've owned a 98' Deville since almost new. Navy on Navy! This is "by far" one of the finest cars I've ever owned!
It's basically never had to go into the repair shop, other than for a couple of recalls!
There is absolutely no squeaks, or rattles of any kind. The car now has 60,000 original miles.
Yes, they (4.6 Litre North Star) engines do enjoy drinking oil, occasionally. I find IF you are not flooring it all the time to pass, etc., that the oil consumption is relativley minimal. This car is never winter driven, or for that matter, hardly ever in rain either. I do think I'll keep this one for an "antique collector" car. Can you imagine bringing this car out on the street in the year 2020?? Almost every car on the road now, is a bug, and practically looks the same.
Timothy Bell, Toronto, Canada. timothybell@rogers.com.