Modern Classic? 1985 Cadillac Cimarron

I’ve been rereading Cadillac: Standard of Excellence again, and it only goes up to 1980, so the bustleback Seville is the last “new” model shown. That was just before the Cimarron was introduced. I wish there was a 1981 to 2026 part 2. This 1985 Cadillac Cimarron can be found here on Facebook Marketplace in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and the seller is asking $2,950 cash, in person. Here is the original listing, and thanks to Zappenduster for the tip!

The seller calls the Cimarron a modern classic, and they may be right. We all define “classic” in different ways, unless it’s the actual CCCA (Classic Car Club of America) definition: “A CCCA Classic is a fine or distinctive automobile, either American or foreign built, produced between 1925 and 1948. Generally, a Classic was high-priced when new and was built in limited quantities. Other factors, including engine displacement, custom coachwork and luxury accessories, such as power brakes, power clutch, and “one-shot” or automatic lubrication systems, help determine whether a car is considered to be a Classic.” The Cimarron doesn’t fit as far as model years go, but it’s certainly distinctive, was built in somewhat limited quanties, and has luxury features.

We all know the Cimarron (1982-1988 model years) was basically a Chevrolet Cavalier reworked with a nicer interior and details. The CCCA would most definitely not deem the Cimarron a “classic” in the spirit of their definition, but in the spirit of modern classics, or social media darlings, such as the Yugo, Pinto, and other cars that create a lot of buzz, I would call it a classic. The Heather exterior has a few issues, and oddly, we don’t see the passenger side at all, not even a glimpse. The interior leather looks appropriately creased, and the seller lists the mileage at 56,000 miles.

The back seat isn’t Cadillac spacious, but it may be nicer than a Cavilier. Just under 20,000 Cimarrons were sold in 1985 and there were a few updates to the exterior, but the 1987 models really had an update. The dash is right out of the Handy Andy toolbox kit of parts, nothing but square edges. The trunk looks tidy and the seller even included several underside photos. Here’s a 1985 Cimarron brochure.

1985 was when buyers could get a new V6, but this is a Chevrolet 2.0-liter OHV inline-four with 88 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque when new. Backed by a Turbo-Hydramatic 125C automatic sending power to the front wheels, the seller says it runs and drives great and they wouldn’t hesitate to jump in and drive it anywhere. It’s had recent brake work, a transmission service, a brake system flush, a coolant system flush, a power steering system flush, a tune-up, new belts and hoses, and new tires. Hagerty is at $3,200 for a #4 fair-condition example and $4,000 for a #3 good car. Have any of you owned a “modern classic” like this Cimarron?