These days, Cadillac’s lineup has clearly set its sights on converting traditional buyers of European sports sedans into American car shoppers. And, to be fair, Cadillac is churning out some fairly impressive high-performance machines, even with the option to have three pedals. That being said, one still has to wonder if Cadillac was a more compelling company when it did what it did best: V8-powered land barges with living room-grade interiors, such as this 1995 Cadillac DeVille listed here on craigslist near Syracuse, NY for $8,900.
Now, before we go much further, you likely think Syracuse means instant rust bucket, and I’d agree with you. However, this Cadillac is shockingly clean underneath. If it has been in upstate New York all of its life, this Caddy didn’t spend much time outside after November 1. That’s entirely possible if it belonged to an older adult who shipped this DeVille down to Florida for the winter months, and given how miserable the snow season can be in Syracuse, it wouldn’t shock me in the least if this car was a snowbird. The seller notes that it has under 90,000 original miles and that it “….runs and drives like a new car.”
The Northstar became standard equipment in 1996, so that leads me to believe we’re looking at the 4.9L L26-series V8, which would have put 200 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque at the drive’s disposal. Now, there was a “Concours” trim line that bumped those figures up considerably, but you’d see the optional Northstar mill under the hood if this DeVille were so equipped. When the Concours option box was checked, the more powerful Northstar engine kicked out a healthy 275 horsepower. Of course, there are plenty of opinions out there about the reliability of the Northstar, but that’s a topic for another time.
Really, all that’s up for debate here is whether a DeVille this clean should be preserved or used like the incredible highway cruiser that it is. The other bonus, if you will, is the black interior. When these do come up for grabs, most examples seem to have ivory or gray leather upholstery. The seller notes this is a fantastic way to live out your inner Sopranos fantasies, and I would agree that a car like this is the ultimate expression of 90s mob culture. With a super clean undercarriage and nicely preserved interior, it’s hard to think of a better cruiser-style sedan for the money. Thanks to Barn Finds reader T.J. for the find.
I like the back end on these – doesn’t have that
“Cookie Cutter” generic look,but that fake convertible
top needs to go away.
I worked at a shop in 1994 where we installed these fake carriage tops and we couldn’t do them quick enough. They were big sellers. I helped on them but one had to learn how to do them with “good” results. I think they originated with E&G Classics right here in Columbia Maryland. I pass by there now all the time.
Amazing how this Deville resembles the Full size RWD Brougham. Both IMO are CADILLACKING .After a 1989 Brougham deElegance👍👌. Subsequently had 93 Brougham👎. CADILLAC no longer builds anything that takes my interest. Glorified trucks masquerading as Luxury vehicles and tiny melted jelly beans. 🤮 🤮. Subsequently moved to Town Cars. Even LINCOLN is on the same page. My 2007 Signature Limited will not get away
Are you sure this is a Deville? On second look, it looks like my 93 Brougham.
Definitely a DeVille. The Fleetwood had a different face
The wide chrome body molding must have been an option or add on. That’s what confused me. Subsequently looked at other DeVilles. This was not visible on those. Thanks for the clarification.
Definitely a Deville. Notice the photos. Independant rear suspension and a sideways mounted 4.9L.
Look at the transverse mounted 4.9 liter engine FWD
Agree! I Also think it looks more like a Brougham model than a standard DeVille of the same Era. Either way. It’s a classic triple black that will always be a “large and in charge” CADILLAC. And in amazing condition! Well worth the asking price. IMO. & GLWT sale
That’s why I still have my 2003 Deville. There is nothing that can replace it. I just had to pull the entire dash out of it to replace a climate control actuator. That is dedication to keeping a comfortable and well loved car.
Your right about your Lincoln. It won’t get away, from anything! LOL
After over 4 decades of driving Detroit sedans I have gone Japanese ( this was a tough decision) The last real American Sedan was the Town Car/ Grand Marquis/ Crown Vic! The Big three are truck companies,nothing more! What’s next, instead of Bill Blass we’ll have the Black and Decker edition Town Truck? Or how about the Chalk Mark Nine?
Take care of it and use it as a daily driver. I’ve seen a black concurs around my town (no fake top)…I waited the owner out. He purchased for $6,500…very clean, logic was to care for/daily driver and not have a car payment. Just need to add a humidor for the final Tony Soprano or Paulie Walnuts touch.
$5000 tops for this one with the sim con roof.
Nice looking, and comfortable car, but I would pass with that engine, the Northstar was far superior.
Northstar, You mean Deathstar, comparing the car in the article to the Northstar is like comparing the Cimaron to the Diesel( My misspelling of cimaron is showing my endearing respect for that er….car) Fleetwood RWD, 350 is THE CADDY for Me!!!