1980 Cadillac Fleetwood
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Year of manufacture1980
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Car typeOther
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Lot number805
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Reference number299
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DriveLHD
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ConditionUsed
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Exterior brand colourother
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Location
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Exterior colourOther
Description
Chassis No. 6B696A9130044
This car was built by former owner Matt Garrett of Texas, on the basis of a low-mileage 1980 Fleetwood Brougham loaded with the factory d'Elegance package with leather interior, all available power options including Astro roof (sunroof) and factory CB radio, and twelve-bolt Positraction rear axle, and finished in Victoria Plum FireMist.
Mr. Garrett then fitted the largest engine Cadillac ever produced, a 500-cu.in. V-8 from a 1970 Eldorado, professionally built by specialist Al Betker of MTS (Maximum Torque Specialist) with all the best tricks in his book. The engine reportedly produces nearly 500 horsepower at the flywheel and an astounding 600 ft/lbs of torque, yet idles properly and still has the smoothness one demands from a Cadillac. It runs through 2:73 gears and exhales through a custom-built three-inch dual exhaust system, and is cooled by a four-core radiator with a booster fan, as well as added oil and transmission coolers. Such is the beauty of the installation that the engine appears 'factory,' with its well-finished aluminum intake manifold, chromed air cleaner and valve covers, and massive air intakes. The suspension was modified with an ADDCO 1½-in. front sway bar, KYB gas shocks in the front, and GM Tow Pak air shocks in the rear in order to preserve the factory leveling system for the proper stance.
Equally impressive is the rest of the Cadillac, which is still wearing its factory paint, down to the pinstriping, as well as the original upholstery, carpets, and floor mats, all in splendid condition, testifying to the 22,825 miles recorded at the time of cataloging. The car cruises on Weld Wheel chrome wire wheels with Vogue whitewall tires, and is accompanied by its original owner's book, full-size spare with cover, trunk mat, and a small history file, including information on the custom features.
This is, quite simply, 500 cubic inches of fun – a Grandma car with Duesenberg-like power.