The 1980 Cadillac year was one of great loss and hardship. Times were changing and most American’s were leaning toward more compact and fuel efficient cars. In fact, as a last ditch effort to gain sales, Cadillac reduced the size of the standard gasoline engine from its prior 425 cubic inch displacement down to a mere 368 cubic inch displacement. As well, Cadillac opened a new assembly plant in Livonia Michigan that would start making their newest project model, a lightweight V-6.
A few cosmetic changes were made to the Cadillac line up this year. The El
Dorado received a new crosshatch grille which was dominated by vertical bars. As
well, the El Dorado sported wide rocket panels stretched from one end to the
other, with optional two tone paint schemes available.
The De Ville received a more streamlined appearance this year. The more
formal roofline was atop the Deville that sported an aerodynamic new grille.
Perhaps the biggest cosmetic changes were seen on the Seville this year. The
Seville came fully loaded with a longer hood and sharp razor like contours. The
fine lined machine was met with some mild hesitation by Cadillac lovers.
However, perhaps the biggest concern regarding the 1980 Cadillac Seville fell in
the hands of the engine, a standard diesel engine, that is, add to that the new
front wheel drive make-up and you have a completely overhauled Seville, one that
fell short on sales, too.
Regardless of the reasoning, Cadillac knew that a change was needed to meet
the needs of their public. The 1980 Cadillac line-up had lacked in comparison to
other years. Cadillac needed a fuel efficient car that offered luxury and
performance.
As the end of 1980 fell, Cadillac was working hard on new models that would
meet their public’s changing views. They sped up the production deadlines on the
subcompact J body style and made their way into the compact car arena.
