Eldorado incorporates Cadillac luxury in a front-wheel-drive, five passenger, two-door coupe. It's an intriguing blend of amenities, both inside and out. First introduced in 1953, Eldorado targets drivers who enjoy Cadillac power and performance in a solidly built, sporty package. Two different trim levels are available; base and the sportier Touring Coupe. Our test drive car, a Montana Blue base model, had a suggested retail price of $38,220. With options including leather seats, power lumbar support, upgraded stereo, heated seats and sport interior, the bottom line was $41,517; including a $635 destination charge. Eldorado's long list of standard equipment includes: driver and front-passenger air bags, six-way power adjusted seats, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, electronic 4-speed automatic transmission, stainless steel exhaust system and heated power outside mirrors. Exterior improvements for 1995 include a new front grille design, which incorporates Cadillac's crest and wreath ornament. For years, this was mounted on the hood. The rear bumper and license plate pocket has also been updated. The steeply-sloped rear window, squared-off side windows and high trunk lid create a striking and appealing appearance. While outside styling cues emphasize strength, the real power is under the hood. General Motors' much publicized 4.6-liter, 32-valve, dual overhead cam, V-8 Northstar engine powers Eldorado. Engine output of all Northstar-equipped, General Motors models have been increased by five horsepower. Base Eldorado jumps to 275 horsepower from last year's 270 because of intake manifold refinements. Platinum-tipped spark plugs and a sequentially-injected, electronic fuel management system mean owners can schedule their first engine tune up when the odometer reaches 100,000 miles. All 1995 Cadillac models feature Dexron III transmission fluid, which, under normal circumstances, lasts for the life of the vehicle. Eldorado's acceleration is terrific. It's capable of going from 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds according to General Motors. Top speed is computer limited to 112 mph. Speed sensitive steering, road-sensing suspension, four-wheel ABS brakes and full-speed traction control are part of Cadillac's Northstar chassis components. These contribute to Eldorado's excellent ride and handling. Speed-sensitive steering automatically adjusts power levels to the steering wheel. For example, maximum assistance is required at low speeds, or when maneuvering into a tight parking space. At highway speeds, lower assistance is delivered so drivers have a greater feel of the road. Inside, fan speed and temperature settings are controlled from a square-shaped, push-button panel, immediately right the dashboard gauge cluster. Both inside and outside temperatures are electronically displayed in a window directly above the controls. Positioning of the temperature controls give drivers the final say concerning inside comfort levels. Front seat passengers must lean over to operate the controls. A digital message center provides useful information including gallons of fuel remaining, coolant temperature, motor oil condition and trip odometer. The green-lettered messages may be turned off with the push of a button. Windshield wipers are activated from the left-hand turn signal stalk. When utilizing windshield wipers for 25 seconds or more, the headlights are automatically activated, improving Eldorado's visibility to other drivers. Manually-activated headlight controls are found on the dashboard, left of the driver. Eldorado offers an optional compass, built into the lower corner of the rear view mirror. A digital N, S, E or W indicates what direction the vehicle is heading. The indicator can be turned off with a flip of a switch. Drivers have good visibility of the road ahead. However, large, rear roof pillars create big blind spots. Dual cup holder retract from the center armrest, a convenient location for both driver and passenger. The cupholder housing unit lifts up, revealing a storage bin with build-in coin and cassette tape holders. Rear compartment vents provides back passengers with extra bursts of heat or air conditioning. Separate temperature and fan controls give back riders a say in their comfort preference. Like most two-door coupes, getting in and out of the rear area takes some bending and twisting. Shutting the trunk is made easy with Eldorado's power pulldown lid . Gentle closing ensures latch hookup, because power mechanisms pull and lock the lid securely. When opened, low liftover makes loading and unloading items into the long, flat trunk easy. The spare tire is stowed below a flat floorboard. The state-of-the-art Northstar engine needs plenty of premium fuel to keep happy. Cadillac estimates fuel mileage at 16 mpg city and 25 highway. Our test model, with 5,000 odometer miles, registered 19 mpg, combined city and highway cruising. The gas tank holds 20 gallons of fuel. General Motors assembles the Eldorado in Detroit, Mich
|