29th Jan 2017, 00:09
The ride of a brand new so called full size Cadillac don't come close to the car on review.
29th Jan 2017, 20:02
So is it a fair to make any comparison to a compact import? Mid size comparison at the very least.
30th Jan 2017, 12:16
Yeah, any compact import sedan these days rides nicer than an eighties Cadillac. They provide nearly as much cushion over road imperfections, without all the pitching, leaning, and nose-diving.
30th Jan 2017, 21:52
You forgot to mention that the compact imports are more comfortable, quieter and hold six passengers with ease. ;)
31st Jan 2017, 02:37
The front seat thin limited padding on my son's late model Civic EX left something to be desired. In 30 miles my back was sore. The EX being the high end Civic model with larger diameter tires. What other claims are we hearing next. It also was not as comfortable as our 88 Town Car. I can imagine how I would feel driving 900 miles almost non stop to Florida.
9th Feb 2017, 09:14
My friend has a late model KIA Optima. I'd describe the ride and comfort experience as cheap because it's an economy car and it's not trying to be anything more. Bumps and imperfections in the road are heard and felt in the jolty economy car fashion. It doesn't ride nearly as good or quiet as an 80s Caddy. The seats are thin cloth and sit low - there's no power adjustment. The modern 4 cylinder engine is torque happy and performs well for a 4 cylinder. But it's still a typical rough noisy 4 cylinder. Ride, comfort, and quietness aren't even close to an 80s Caddy.
10th Feb 2017, 09:45
Well then buy a late model limo. Amazing how affordable they are used. I have owned nearly every body style. The limo is true luxury for passengers. Even a high top conversion van with exceptional rear seating on trips. The seats are outstanding. I was just in some new ones at the Philadelphia Car Show last week. On a trip, stretch out and enjoy the flat screen.
10th Feb 2017, 19:39
Ok, enough with the alternatives because there are none. The point being made is that nothing rides like an '80s six passenger Cadillac. Can we please leave it at that?
17th Feb 2017, 22:44
Although 80's Cadillacs ride great, nothing compares to the ride of 70's Lincoln Continentals. Especially the late 70's models when you felt like driving on a cloud and nothing is felt below you.
Suspension tuning is so key for a smooth soft ride. Trying to get an older Cadillac to ride like when it was new will be extremely hard today, since most shocks and springs are geared towards the firm side. Replacing all the suspension and steering bushings can really help things, but the spring rate is honestly what is ultimately responsible for the car absorbing road impacts, more so than the shocks, and allows for more suspension travel. Tires are a big deal, but getting nice thick looking white walls to ride softly is becoming a scarcity these days.
18th Feb 2017, 04:50
No, we cannot leave it at that because it isn't accurate. The ride quality of an eighties Cadillac is being grossly exaggerated.
18th Feb 2017, 13:11
No, the comment that a compact import has a better ride than an 80's Cadillac is what's being exaggerated.
18th Feb 2017, 18:29
Yup, you are so right. Do you have any experience driving a rear drive Fleetwood to support your claim?
19th Feb 2017, 20:47
I just love your suggestions. First of all nobody here mentioned that they are looking to buy a new car.
Second, this all started when somebody stated that a new compact import rides better than an old Fleetwood.
Third, why why does it have to be a brand new CTS if somebody wants an old Fleetwood? You can find a good condition Fleetwood from 1986 onward and use it as a daily driver. If it was done back then, it can be done today.
Sure the CTS is popular and has power, but still does not provide what the grand old Cadillacs were known for.
20th Feb 2017, 02:58
I'll just stick with the oldies with the old school ride; I like the Cadillac float of the past. The new ones are smooth and serene in all, but aren't as soft nor as comfortable by any means compared to the classics.
20th Feb 2017, 12:03
Why not mention new? As far as ride quality, new vehicles have selective ride control, far more technology and luxurious accommodations. I maintain many of the older Cadillacs and Lincoln Town Cars. Gas has dropped, but my experience with both is massive fuel consumption. I was commuting 50 miles at one time and digging deep in my pockets to fuel mine. If it's about buying a cheap Cadillac, it isn't with distance driving. Mine became a nice Sunday driver. If you are daily driving a Fleetwood, then you must be aware of this. I know it's all about the ride mostly. But running errands to malls, stores and traffic, it's different today. And there is more traffic. I have also experienced air ride issues and had to replace all the brake lines in mine. We had one that cost 3k to redo the seats that split with age.
Lastly, Cadillac has a new crossover. It may not be a sedan, but try riding in new ones. It's very comfortable. To me, if you are talking about a Cadillac, talk about what was and is currently available. Many do not want dated old Cadillacs. Historically people bought new in this segment for that very reason. Prestige and success was very much a reason. You can argue all day long on ride quality. Every year there are added features and amenities to attract new buyers. I can't see driving an old one over 30000 plus miles a year. My 2 cents.
14th Feb 2014, 15:53
I actually love my Honda. It isn't extremely small and it is full of luxury and technology items that make a very interesting ride. It is peppy and fast, and looks great, too. I just wish it was straight shift! Like I said, best of both worlds. Surrounded by cushy velour in the Cadillac, or sporty leather in the Civic, I am fully satisfied with both cars. I like the fact that they are so very different. I'm 6'4" and the Honda fits me fine :-)