Cadillac

Cadillac is America's most prestigious car brand with roots going back over 100 years. Today, the limousines have been replaced by SUVs.

Vinyl roof – a little over the top?

Posted 07/05/2025 by Terje Bjørnstad

What do you think about fake convertible tops? It looks cool – American taste, right? – or is it a little over the top?

I came across this Cadillac Seville on display outside a car dealership in Drøbak. The car is a 1995 model Seville of the 4th generation with a transversely mounted 4.6 liter Northstar V8 engine. The latest models of Seville are stylish cars with a design that has held up well. What caught my interest was the vinyl roof. This is a special type that is retrofitted to new and used cars in the USA. There the solution is called carriage vinyl tops, with an allusion to earlier horse-drawn carriages. In any case, the tops look like real, foldable canopies. That is why they are also referred to as fake convertible tops.

Vinyl roofs come in many forms

The purpose of vinyl roofs is to give the cars more character as convertibles with retractable roofs. You can find cars with vinyl roofs all the way back to the 1920s, but it didn't become common until the 1960s – especially the latter half when vinyl roofs became an optional extra on very common car models. They were often expensive equipment variants.

The vinyl fabric was glued to the roof with the ends hidden within the front and rear window moldings, as well as chrome moldings along the sides. Vinyl roofs could also be retrofitted. A solution that became quite popular in the 1970s was vinyl roof on box. A substance was simply sprayed onto the roof that gave the same surface as a vinyl roof. This solution was often used after body damage to repair car roofs.

Landau roof

In the 1980s, vinyl roofs disappeared as an option on European and Japanese cars. In the United States, however, new vinyl roofs began to take shape. Landau roofs cover about a quarter of the roof at the rear and are reminiscent of old horse-drawn carriages of the “Landauer” type where you could fold down the rear part of the roof. Some car models with landau roofs even had fake hood handles on the sides – for decoration. You can still buy these as accessories on Ebay.

Only in the US

Let's go back to the Cadillac in the main image. It has a lavish solution that looks like a real convertible. You can tell that there are roof bars underneath and that the side rails cover the side windows like a real convertible. Also notice that the texture is the same type used on real convertibles. It all looks good, even though the roof is not foldable in reality.

Retrofit styling

In the United States, vinyl roof conversions an offer for owners of newer sedan models, such as the Cadillac CTS and Toyota Camry (US). Carriage Tops is not glued directly onto the original roof. It is first built onto a fiberglass shell that is adapted to the car model. The shell is then placed on the car's original roof with rivets and silicone. Finally, the moldings are screwed into place.

Disadvantages of vinyl roofing

Vinyl roofs do not stand the test of time very well. They can crack and moisture can get inside. It is not uncommon to find rust damage under old vinyl roofs. When vintage cars undergo full restoration, the vinyl roofs therefore disappear. However, many have experienced that the underside of factory-installed vinyl and landau roofs is poorly finished by the factory. Removing a carriage top with a fiberglass shell, will leave damage from fasteners. This type of roof also has another disadvantage. If you are unfortunate enough to have the rear window broken, you may risk having to remove the entire fiberglass shell first.

But why remove the vinyl roof? Doesn't it give the car more character?

Cadillac Seville SLS 5th generation

Cadillac Seville 3rd generation

From left: Cadillac Seville SLS 5th generation, Cadillac Seville 2nd generation. Both images are copied from advertisements.

A Cadillac will never be a common sight in Norway. With fake convertible top becomes even more interesting, – but not necessarily more beautiful. One might add that it represents American taste more than European. The car in the main picture can therefore be described as a small piece of America in Norway. Here, all “closet Americans” can put on plaid pants, Hawaiian shirts, baseball caps and let the tones of Merle Haggard roll out of the player.

What do you think about vinyl ceilings?

Lincoln Town Car Presidential - Vinyl-coated rear side window for more privacy like a president would like.

Lincoln Town Car Presidential – Vinyl-coated rear side window for more privacy like a president would enjoy.

Opel Ascona B – vinyl roof finish.

1973 Ford Taunus 2.0 GLX – Vinyl roof finish details

From left: Lincoln Town Car Presidential, Opel Ascona B, 1973 Ford Taunus 2.0 GXL.

See

Example of American companies that supply vinyl tops:
Carlen Automotive Restyling
Merrillville Auto Glass & Trim

Sales ad for the Cadillac Seville in the main image:
Finn.no – item 401082625

Cadillac BLS – Nice try!

Posted 27/02/2024 by Terje Bjørnstad

A completely unexpected news. Even the dealers were surprised. A new Cadillac adapted for the European market?

I don't remember which newspaper published the story, but it was about a journalist who had contacted a local car dealer. The dealer was completely fired up by what he had seen.

“I'm at a dealer meeting now – will call you tomorrow. You won't believe what kind of car I've seen here!”

An independent model

It was no secret that the new Cadillac BLS was based on the Saab 9-3. After all, GM has never been a stranger to so-called "badge engineering", where you create a "new" car model by replacing the grill and placing a different logo on the steering wheel. But BLS was no "rebadge job". In addition to a new front, it received a completely redesigned rear that resembled Cadillac's larger sedan models. In addition, the suspension was made softer and more noise reduction was added. I guess the steering maybe got a more powerful servo? Inside, changes were made to place the model in a higher premium tier. Among other things, you could get leather seats with Cadillac leather. Saab's green instrument lighting was replaced with white light and an elegant clock was given a central place on the dashboard.

Cadillac for Passat money

The Cadillac BLS appeared as a 2006 model. Norway was then a diesel country. "Everyone" was supposed to have a diesel car, which GM had realized. The new Cadillac could of course be delivered with a diesel engine. GM's 1,9 turbodiesel was used by both Opel and Saab, and was developed by Fiat under the name MultiJet. Due to the diesel-friendly tax policy, the Cadillac BLS 1,9 D Business Sedan became the most affordable version here at home. It cost exactly the same as a Volkswagen Passat 2,0 TDI Highline Sedan. Cadillac for Passat money, in other words – or NOK 20 more than what the equivalent Saab 000-9 Sedan cost.

What was he thinking?

Bob Lutz was vice president of GM and is considered the man behind the BLS project. GM did not have to dig deep into the wallet to develop and produce the new model. The differences between the Saab 9-3 and the Cadillac BLS were no greater than that both models could be produced along the same production line in Trollhättan. The BLS program resulted in better utilization of the production equipment and a completely new car model in the bargain. Good for Saab – and good for GM. One can speculate about what goals Bob Lutz actually had. Was it to test the production apparatus for the production of two models at the same time, or was it a test of the market for a European Cadillac? In both cases, you can say that it was a good attempt.

The flop

The Cadillac BLS didn't sell well anywhere. American motoring press were quick to label the car "weird" - and said it would never reach the US. The European car press was kinder in its reviews. The Saab 9-3 was not a bad car - something Cadillac could reap benefits from. It is difficult to find any exact reason why BLS never became a success. I can only share my own thoughts when I changed my car in 2006.

The qualification of the election

I like American cars - for example, one with a warm V6 and an automatic transmission. But in 2006 such an engine option would be disproportionately expensive. A Cadillac with diesel? What's the joy in owning an American model that no American will admit to? I didn't want to be a "Wanna-Be" Cadillac owner. For me it was (yet) a new Volkswagen Passat. For the same price as the Cadillac, I got a spry pump-nozzle diesel, sports seats and snobbish Highline grill. My now long previously owned Passat was recently wrecked with over 300 km at an unknown location in Finnmark. If you own a Passat B000 or newer, all you have to do is enjoy it as long as it lasts. You can then hand it over for scrapping with a clear conscience - like an old bookcase from Ikea.

But what about the Cadillac BLS?

I spotted the car at the top of the page just a few days ago. It must have been ages since I last saw a Cadillac BLS. There are only 80 cars in the vehicle register. Most (54) were registered in 2006 – i.e. the first model year. The last 3 cars were registered as recently as 2010. Approximately 12 of the 80 cars have been wrecked, 5 have been confirmed deregistered and 6 may be in winter storage. Now is probably the time for the owners to decide whether to keep the car or deliver it for scrapping.

Will probably continue as Saab

I have started taking "snapshots" of newer Saabs for fear that they will disappear for good. In 10 years, I think many people will find pleasure in studying a Saab 9-3 up close.

How will the BLS be perceived in 10 years? Like Saab or Cadillac?

What matches will the cars appear at? Saab meeting or Amcar meeting?

I don't think I need to give an answer, but om should a BLS show up at a Cadillac meet in 10 years, I hope it's a "top of the line" Cadillac BLS 2,8 T Sport Elegance Automatic - a car that cost a decent NOK 795 in 600.

Source: Brochure material

Cadillac XTS Based on the same platform as the Saab 9-5

Based on the GM Ypsilon II LWB

Another example: Cadillac XTS and Saab 9-5 shared platform.

See

skatteetaten.no
Vegvesen.no
Regnr.info

GM returns

Posted 17/08/2023 by Terje Bjørnstad

It's no secret that GM is preparing to return to Europe. Already in the autumn, some really exciting Americans may appear in central Oslo.

Ready for autumn?

Earlier this year, GM's European president confirmed, Jaclyn McQuaid, to Automotive News Europe that GM will present its electric models in Europe. We do not know exactly when GM will come to Oslo, but they have signed a contract for premises in Nedre Slottsgate and are currently looking for a service engineer for Sweden and Norway. They will probably be in place with their electric model program for 2024 as early as this autumn.

GM's new models are Cadillac Lyrics, chevrolet blazer ev, Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, Chevrolet Equinox EV og Chevrolet Silverado EV. We will probably also see new ones GMC Hummer EV SUV. A brand new one is due next year Chevrolet Bolt put into production. For several years, the Bolt has been GM's only electric car.

What can GM offer?

Electric cars sell primarily on price, space and range - and this is precisely where GM's new models will assert themselves. The secret is called vice which is a new electric car drivetrain GM has developed in collaboration with LG Chem. The advantages of the new drive system are lower production costs, more energy per volume and lower weight. The new battery management system can eliminate up to 90% of cables and connectors other models need. Not only does it provide lower weight, but also a better ability to accept fast charging.

The experiences with Bolt

Here at home, the Chevrolet Bolt and its sister model, the Opel Ampera-e, are often portrayed as failed cars. When the Bolt was launched in 2016, it offered unprecedented range for its price. That was what made most people put themselves on waiting lists. Unfortunately, GM and the battery supplier LG Chem grossly missed the production capacity. Huge waiting lists arose - and while people waited, GM was overtaken by other car manufacturers. When they were finally able to deliver cars, the buyers were blown away. It got then GM dealer, Bergheim Auto feel. They had bought a large batch of Chevrolet Bolts which they had to sell at a loss. When GM later sold Opel to PSA, GM's electric car disappeared from the model range.

Although GM stumbled after its launch, the cars were well-engineered and technologically superior to the competition. It is possible that GM may face a similar situation today. It has been opened for orders for certain models even before production has started, but in the last few days it has been reported that the start of production has been delayed by 6 months due to a supplier struggling to deliver equipment to automate the production of the batteries . All the new models are affected, but executive vice president Mary Barra has said that GM will still be able to produce 100 new EV models during the second half of 000.

Cadillac Lyrics

During the first half of the year, only a few cars were produced with GM's new drivetrain – the Cadillac Lyriq and the GMC Hummer EV SUV. These are considered pre-production cars for exhibitions, tests and marketing. The Cadillac Lyriq will probably be the first model to arrive in Oslo. It can to be followed by the all-new Escalade IQ due to enter production in late 2024 as a 2025 model. The Escalade IQ is a colossus of 5,7 meters with a range of up to 720 km that can hardly find a place in Norwegian car parks. The Cadillac Lyriq, on the other hand, has just the right amount of space with its 5 metres. The Lyriq is offered in three equipment variants, Technology, Luxury og Sports - all can be selected with RWD or AWD and are powered by a 102 kwh battery. Range is 505 km for 2-wheel drive cars and 494 for 4-wheel drive. In the US, prices start at just under $60.000, to $80.000 with equipment packages. Then the prices in Norway can start in excess of NOK 600 before taxes and equipment packages.

The driver's seat of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV 3RS (pre-production model).

The trunk of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV 3LT (pre-production model).

Chevrolet Equinox EV

This year's most interesting model for most people will probably be the Chevrolet Equinox EV. The electric car version looks better than the other Equinox cars. The external dimensions are almost identical to the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford's new European Explorer. In the US, the Equinox EV can be ordered already, although production has not yet started. Prices are expected to start from $30.000 for the base model 1LT with 201 hp, front-wheel drive and a range of 400 km. Most people will probably choose the Equinox 2LT with 290 hp, larger battery pack and wider infotainment screen. The range is estimated at 480 km for cars with front-wheel drive and 448 for four-wheel drive. The top model 2RS gets the same powertrains as the 2LT. There are many indications that the prices of the Equinox EV can start well below the tax limit of NOK 500.

chevrolet blazer ev

2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS (pre-production model).

Interior in Adrenaline Red. 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS (pre-production model).

chevrolet blazer ev

The new Blazer EV ends up in the same size class as the Equinox, but carries a tougher design language, which is reinforced in more daring colours. The Blazer 2LT is currently priced at $56.715, the RS edition at $60.215. The range-topping SS is yet to be priced, but most images and specs appear to belong to the SS – with acceleration from 0-60mph in 4 seconds and a range of 512km. The Blazer EV comes with a type of 4-wheel drive system where you can also choose to drive with rear-wheel drive or front-wheel drive - whatever it would be good for.

Building charging networks

The three best-selling car models in the US in the second quarter of this year are pickups - Ford F-series, Chevrolet Silverado and Dodge RAM. But already in 2th place we find the Tesla Model Y, and in 4th place the Tesla Model 12. After Tesla, we have to go far down the list to find more electric cars. The Chevrolet Bolt is in 3th place, while the Ford Mustang Mach-E is number 112. In Q115, 2 times more Model Ys were sold than the Ford Mustang Mach-E. The two models are actually equivalent in terms of size, range, power, quality and handling. Could Tesla's advantage be the good charging network? There are still areas in the US without good public electric car chargers. Tesla chargers, on the other hand, can be found along all major thoroughfares.
Executive director Mary Barra's production target is 400 cars on GM's Ultium powertrain. It's daring. In the first half of 000, Tesla sold 2023 cars in the US, while the other electric cars only got crumbs on the domestic market. There is no reason to doubt that GM's new EV models can deliver competitive technology, but GM car owners need to trust that there is a charging network along the road. Fortunately, GM has taken action on this problem, and is now joining forces with 343 other car manufacturers to build a seamless charging network in the US and Canada in the same way as Tesla. The first charging stations will arrive next summer.

2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray 3LZ convertible (pre-production model).

Coming to Oslo soon? 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray 3LZ coupe in Seawolf Gray (pre-production model).

The driver's seat of the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray 3LZ coupe (pre-production model).

GMC Hummer H1-EV SUV.

The GMC Hummer EV SUV has a very appealing interior.

The Silverado EV is approved to tow 9 tons.

2024 Silverado EV RST dashboard.

See

Inside EVs – GM is returning to Europe

Manufacturing Dive – GM blames supplier for delays in possible production

Photo Sunday – Cadillac Diner

Posted 07/09/2021 by Terje Bjørnstad

It's nice to have friends visit - especially nice when they arrive in a classic Cadillac Convertible with the roof down. We are located in Gudbrandsdalen. The base temperature is 14 degrees, but the sun is still shining. Today, many people drive with the top down.

Meeting place

We agreed to meet for lunch at the Cadillac Diner on Tretten in Gudbrandsdalen – a natural stop when driving a Cadillac Eldorado Convertible or another enthusiast vehicle. The cafe is decorated with memorabilia related to Cadillac and nostalgic American 50s. Outside is a Mack Cabover tow truck. Several other guests had arrived in cars with the roof down, including an Austin Healey 3000, Plymouth Special Deluxe and a Ford Mustang. Everyone had a great time in the fine autumn weather.

A break at the Cadillac Diner is mandatory for many in the car and motorcycle community. If you pop in for a bite to eat, you might see some great enthusiast cars outside.

No chain

Our table chose hamburger with fries, American pancakes and bacon - as well as Coke served in glass bottles. The hamburger was very good - just like my grandmother made them. It made a complete lunch meal for me. The Cadillac Diner reopened this summer. Brittirèn Bjerkestuen has gone into partnership with Stavsplassen SA and is thus carrying on his father's life's work, Trond Bjerkestuen, further.

Today, almost all the eateries along the road are franschise places. I prefer places that are independently run - like the Cadillac Diner.

It makes sense for the statue of the Liberty Bell on the outside.

Pictures from Cadillac Diner

plymouth special — Plymouth Special Deluxe Convertible with the top down

photo sunday — Mercedes-Benz 220S "Ponton"

nodding though — A nodding dog in a rear window also gives a high nostalgia factor

See

Cadillac Diner on Facebook - lots of nice photos

bmw 2800 cs — Photo Sunday – Youngtimers

Cadillac to the mountains

Posted 08/08/2021 by Terje Bjørnstad

It is iconic. Not only does it represent American automotive philosophy at its peak. Generation 9 was also to be the last American convertible for many years from GM.

Cadillac Eldorado Convertible

New US safety requirements put an end to US-made convertibles. Officially, GM claimed that production was no longer profitable. Those who still wanted to drive a soft-top had to either choose expensive foreign cars – such as the Mercedes-Benz SL – or keep the Cadillac. Many chose the latter. It may have contributed to the fact that so many of the cars still exist.

Another reason why the cars have survived is that they belonged to the last generation of full-size Eldorado - built according to the principle "bigger is better". Subsequent models were scaled down. Sensible, seen in today's eyes. Although the Cadillac Eldorado Convertible is almost 5,7 meters long and weighs 2,5 tonnes, it does not offer more interior space than a normal, intimate 2-door car. And even on quiet country roads, it smoothly drinks 2 liters of leaded super petrol per mile.

But it has something that today's cars don't.

The Cadillac feeling

We met Tov Westby at Skjerdingen Høyfjellshotell which lies between Atna and Ringebu. The Cadillac was parked in the shade outside the hotel. Long and wide - low and surprising bibs - even with the canopy up. We lowered the canopy to head west along the beautiful Friisvegen. The soft leather seats are soft to the touch and hug the body in a comfortable way. You sit very much "in" the seats - not "on".

In a few days, Friisvegen will get new asphalt east of Skjerdingen. This stretch of road is currently full of potholes and bumps. We noticed them well when we arrived in our Tesla Model 3. In the Cadillac, on the other hand, we didn't notice anything about the unevenness. Nor did we hear any rattling and banging from the undercarriage. Deep in the white leather seats, it literally felt like floating on a white cloud. An incredible comfort considering that the car is actually about 44 years old.

Making a statement

Tov steered the Cadillac safely along the mountain road. Where it was narrow, he politely stopped to make way for oncoming camper van tourists. On a mountain trip in an open Cadillac, you are met with smiles and happy greetings. A Cadillac convertible has always been a symbol of wealth and individualism. A car for those who have come a long way. There are lists of super celebrities who have owned Cadillacs, but no one seems to have owned a late Eldorado Convertible. It is said that Elvis Presley gave away over 200 Cadillacs to people who meant something to him. Among these are also a couple of Eldorados (hardtops). He is said to have bought a 1974 model to give to his karate teacher at the time.

With the canopy down

Driving an open Cadillac can be compared to being out on a boat. There is, of course, quite a bit of wind, but the voices between the back seat and the front seat still carried surprisingly well. We could carry on conversations in a normal voice. In the front seats behind the "wind screen" there was no intrusive wind, but in the back seat where my wife sat, it was more windy - just like in a boat. Perhaps a reason why many people wear caps and hoods when driving with the canopy down? The big V8 was clearly audible when the throttle was applied, but the muffled hum was only a pleasure for the ears. The enormous torque in the eight rarely creates a need to step hard on the gas.

Visual upgrades

Tov's Cadillac is not entirely original in appearance. According to the VIN number, the car is a Convertible with a 500 engine, produced as a 1974 model. But the front probably originates from a newer model, probably a 1978 Cadillac Eldorado (with fixed roof). GM changed the front of its models almost every year. The 1974 model had a different pattern in the grille, different headlights and turn signals that folded around the sides. The rear light arrangement may also originate from a newer model. At the risk of being branded a squeamish nostalgic, I would like to add that the upgrades suit the car very well and make it a very special specimen.

Luxury in 1974

In 1974, the Cadillac Eldorado Convertible was one of the most expensive and luxurious cars on the market. None of the cars with Norwegian plates were bought new in Norway. If so, they would probably have to be special ordered, if at all possible. As mentioned, the luxury lay in the Cadillac feeling. The 1974 model also got a new dashboard which is slightly curved. The upper part has an "information band" where all the warning lights are gathered. Power antenna and radio were standard equipment. Likewise, central locking, power steering with variable steering ratio and illuminated ashtrays. Already in the 50s - long before computer electronics - Cadillac developed solutions such as automatic dimming of the main lights, seat adjustment with memory and cruise control.

Tov demonstrated the solution for the remote-controlled trunk opener. There is a yellow button that comes into view when you open the glove compartment. The lock opens and closes with the help of an electric motor - which sounds quite clearly. The same solution could just as well have been in a 50s Cadillac. Everything you put on in the car seems solid. Handles and switches are made of metal. The doors open and close with loud metallic sounds of "clunk and clang". This is part of the charm of American cars - in contrast to today's cars with extensive use of plastic and cardboard.

Lunch at Skjerdingen

We went back to Skjerdingen Høyfjellshotell to eat lunch. It was nice to sit outside with a view over the mountain home. Lightly smoked mountain trout with sour cream and cucumber salad can certainly be recommended. If you take a small detour up Friisvegen between Atna and Ringebu, it is not impossible that you will see the red Cadillac parked outside. The owner is associated with the hotel and the Cadillac can be used for special occasions, preferably accompanied by Champagne.

"Never too early for Champagne?"

Facts 1974 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible

Weights and Measures
Length, width, height: 569 / 203 / 137 cm
Wheelbase: 328 cm
Net weight: 2385 kg (without driver)
Number of seats: 5

Drivetrain
Engine: 500 V8 OHV 8,2 liter longitudinal front mounted
Power: 214 HP at 3800 revs
Torque: 515 Nm at 2000 revolutions
Gearbox: 3-speed automatic Turbo Hydra-Matic
Front wheel drive.

Undercarriage
Front suspension: Torsion strut.
Rear suspension: 4-link wishbones with coil springs. Air-filled shock absorbers with automatic rear height adjustment. New for the 1974 model was a (new) rear stabilizer bar.
2 circuit brake system.
Front brakes: Ventilated discs
Rear brakes: Drums

Performances
Top speed: 193 km/h

About the car
Place of manufacture: Detroit, USA*
Owner: Tov Westby
Model: 1974*
Source: *Checked against the car's VIN number

Pictures

cadillac posing — Mood picture on the mountain from the day before. Photo: Tov Westby

cadillac back seat — In the back seat you get more wind in your hair

See

Caddy'n on the super'n

Posted 21/11/2015 by Terje Bjørnstad

I blog about cars I come across on my way. This is such a car.

There is a Cadillac on display at a shopping center I visit from time to time - a so-called "outlet". When my better half shops, I go and look at the Cadillac upstairs. A 1964 model Deville convertible. The car appears intact and clean, but bears the mark of a lack of TPA. I notice that one of the rear tires is deflating due to insufficient air. But it is dry and nice underneath. In a newspaper article I found out that the car belonged to the former King of Saudi Arabia, Fahd Bin Abdulaziz. The Saudi royal family was also known to give away their cars to friends and acquaintances when they got tired of them, and they often did.

In captivity at a supermarket on the border between Spain and France.

A Cadillac should get regular drives and not stand at a supermarket here in a mountain pass between Spain and France. The place is called La Jonquera and is reminiscent of Svinesund. Today is Sunday. I'm familiar with the area. I wish I could take the Cadillac out for a drive and let it dove along the many beautiful country roads around.

Of course I can't. But I did the next best thing. I "Photoshopped" the car into new surroundings, a place I found on Google Maps, in Charlottenberg in the border area of Sweden. Mekonomen is in the picture, not to give the garage chain free advertising, but because the slope of the hill agreed so well with the angle from the Supermarket in La Jonquera.