Cadillac De Ville 1959–1960 car dimensions: 5715 mm long, 2037 mm wide and 1427 mm high. Unladen weight is 2,200 kg.
The cabin seats six in plush surroundings with standard power windows and two-way power front seats. Air conditioning and an automatic heating system are optional for climate comfort. Cruise control is also optional for steady highway speeds. No electronic driver aids appear in the published equipment lists.
The luggage compartment offers ample room for suitcases and golf clubs. Hinges stay clear of the load area and a power deck-lid lock is optional.
The cabin seats six on deeply cushioned bench seats with standard center armrests front and rear. Upholstery is cloth with leather bolsters or optional cloth-leather mixes. Two-way power front seats are standard. six-way power is optional. Power windows are standard. Optional air conditioning cools and dehumidifies the large interior. Optional E-Z-Eye tinted glass cuts glare and heat. The hardtop design with thin pillars gives an open, airy feel and wide visibility. Carpeting covers floors and lower panels.
390 cu in V8 engine, 325 hp standard
21-gallon fuel tank
Power brakes and power steering standard
Backup lamps standard
Hydra-Matic automatic transmission standard
The car runs a 390 cubic-inch V8 rated at 325 horsepower with a four-barrel carburetor. Dual exhaust is standard. A 21-gallon tank holds premium fuel. Highway cruising returns around 15 mpg in period reports. overall figures sit near 10-13 mpg depending on conditions and options like air conditioning.
Service centers on routine oil changes with the standard full-flow filter, plus checks of the Hydra-Matic transmission and power accessories. Air suspension, when fitted, needs extra attention to maintain ride height. Parts remain available through classic specialists.
Standard safety items include power brakes on 15-inch wheels, power steering, dual backup lamps, windshield washers, two-speed wipers, and an outside rearview mirror. The tubular X-frame adds torsional strength. No formal crash-test ratings exist from the era. Optional Autronic Eye auto-dims headlights. Seat belts were not standard.
Living with the car means enjoying a soft, quiet ride over long distances. The large size and soft suspension prioritize comfort. Keep it garaged to protect chrome and finishes. Regular maintenance of the aging power systems and seals keeps it reliable for classic use.
Length 5715 mm, Width 2037 mm, Height 1427 mm, Wheelbase 3302 mm (De Ville 1959–1960)
Sources: manufacturer data, 1959 Cadillac brochure, conceptcarz.com, Wikipedia, over-drive-magazine fact sheets.