A Deep Dive into Cadillac Cimarron 1990 Specs, Features, Comfort, Safety Features, Fuel Efficiency, And Much More

Introduction

The Cadillac Cimarron, particularly the 1990 model, represents a significant chapter in the history of American luxury sedans. Introduced in the early 1980s, the Cimarron aimed to attract a younger demographic to the Cadillac brand, offering a blend of luxury and performance in a compact package.

 By 1990, the Cimarron was nearing the end of its production run, but it remained a symbol of Cadillac’s attempt to reinvent itself. Though controversial in its reception, the Cimarron of 1990 deserves a closer look for its unique design, features, and role in Cadillac’s history.

This article provides an in-depth look at the Cadillac Cimarron 1990 , exploring its specifications, design, features, comfort, safety, fuel efficiency, and more.

Category	Details
Engine	2.8-liter V6 engine, 125 horsepower, 160 lb-ft torque
Transmission Options	5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Drive Type	Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Fuel Efficiency	18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
Exterior Design	Signature vertical grille, sleek lines, rectangular headlights
Interior Features	Leather seating, woodgrain trim, power windows, AM/FM cassette stereo, optional premium sound
Comfort	Compact dimensions, plush seating, limited rear-seat legroom, 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space
Safety Features	Anti-lock brakes (ABS), driver-side airbag, reinforced door beams for side-impact protection
Suspension	MacPherson strut front suspension, semi-independent rear suspension.
Wheels	Optional aluminum alloy wheels
Performance	Modest acceleration, decent handling, and smooth ride for its class
Criticism	Lacked premium features expected from Cadillac, too similar to the Chevrolet Cavalier
Legacy	Marked Cadillac’s entry into the compact luxury segment, influencing future models like the CTS and ATS
Price (New)	Approximately $14,000 (1990 model year)

Specifications

Engine Options

The 1990 Cadillac Cimarron had several engine options, primarily focusing on balancing performance with fuel efficiency. The standard engine was:

• 2.8-liter V6 Engine: Producing approximately 130 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque.
• Transmission Options: The Cimarron came with a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission.

Performance Metrics

• 0-60 mph: Approximately 9.5 seconds
• Top Speed: Around 115 mph
• Fuel Economy: Estimated at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, making it a reasonable choice for a compact luxury sedan.

Design

Exterior

The exterior design of the 1990 Cadillac Cimarron captures the styling trends of the late 1980s and early 1990s, blending compact dimensions with classic Cadillac aesthetics. Its front end is defined by Cadillac’s iconic vertical grille, lending it a distinctive and recognizable look. Smooth body contours enhance the car’s aerodynamics while maintaining an air of understated luxury. Rectangular headlights, a popular design choice of the era, complete the Cimarron’s modern yet timeless appearance.

Interior

The interior of the 1990 Cimarron was designed with comfort and luxury in mind. Key features include:

• Quality Materials: Soft-touch materials and high-quality upholstery create an upscale ambiance.
• Spaciousness: Despite its compact size, the Cimarron provides both front and rear passengers adequate legroom and headroom.
• Dashboard Layout: The dashboard is ergonomically designed, with easy access to controls and gauges, enhancing driver convenience.

Features

Advanced Technology

Although the 1990 Cimarron was relatively simple by modern standards, it offered several notable features for its time:

• Climate Control: The Cimarron came equipped with a standard air conditioning system, ensuring a comfortable ride regardless of external conditions.
• Audio System: An AM/FM radio with a cassette player was standard, with options for a premium sound system offering better audio quality.
• Power Accessories: Power windows, door locks, and mirrors were standard, adding to the convenience and luxury feel.

Trim Levels

The 1990 Cadillac Cimarron was available in several trim levels, allowing buyers to choose options that best suited their preferences. Higher trims offered luxury features, including leather seating and upgraded audio systems.

Comfort

Seating

The seating in the 1990 Cimarron was designed for both comfort and support. Key highlights include:

• Front Seats: The front seats provided ample cushioning and support, making them suitable for longer journeys.
• Rear Seats: The rear seats offered decent space for passengers, with comfortable backrests and adequate legroom.

Ride Quality

The Cimarron’s suspension system was calibrated to deliver a smooth ride, absorbing road imperfections and enhancing overall comfort. The vehicle’s compact size made it easy to maneuver in urban settings, providing a more enjoyable driving experience.

Safety Features

Safety was an important consideration for the 1990 Cadillac Cimarron, which included a variety of features aimed at protecting occupants:

• Airbags: The 1990 model was equipped with a driver-side airbag, a relatively new feature.
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): ABS was an option, providing improved control during emergency braking situations.
• Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts were standard for all seating positions, enhancing passenger safety.

While the safety features of the Cimarron may not match modern standards, they were considered advanced for a compact luxury sedan of its era.

Fuel Efficiency

The fuel efficiency of the 1990 Cadillac Cimarron was competitive for its class. With an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, the Cimarron provided a good balance between performance and economy. This fuel efficiency level made it an attractive option for consumers looking for a luxury vehicle without excessive fuel costs.

Market Position

Target Audience

When it was introduced, the Cadillac Cimarron aimed to attract a younger demographic, particularly those seeking a luxury experience in a more compact and affordable package. Its blend of performance, comfort, and features made it appealing to young professionals and families.

Competition

The Cimarron faced competition from several other compact luxury sedans during its production run, including:

• Acura Integra: Known for its sporty performance and reliability.
• BMW 3 Series: Offering a dynamic driving experience and a strong brand reputation.
• Mercedes-Benz 190E: A compact luxury sedan focusing on quality and performance.

While the Cimarron had its strengths, it struggled to achieve the same brand prestige as its European competitors.

Legacy

The Cadillac Cimarron has often been viewed as a controversial model in Cadillac’s history. While it attempted to expand the brand’s appeal, it faced criticism for being a rebranded version of the Chevrolet Cavalier. Despite this, the Cimarron carved out a niche for itself and remains a subject of interest among automotive enthusiasts and collectors.

Collectibility

Today, the 1990 Cadillac Cimarron is a rare find and has become a collectible item for those interested in classic American luxury vehicles. Its unique position in Cadillac’s lineup and distinctive design make it a notable piece of automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1990 Cadillac Cimarron represents an intriguing blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. Its stylish design, comfortable interior, and reasonable fuel efficiency appealed to a demographic looking for a compact luxury sedan. While it faced challenges in the competitive market, the Cimarron remains an interesting chapter in Cadillac’s legacy.

Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast or simply curious about American automotive history, the 1990 Cadillac Cimarron offers a glimpse into the past—when luxury was evolving and brands sought to reach new customers. Its blend of features, comfort, and design make it a noteworthy example of its era, and it continues to spark conversations among collectors and automotive fans alike.

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