The 1982 Cadillac Brougham, a symbol of American luxury and opulence, arrived on the scene during a time of economic uncertainty and cultural shifts. This full-size sedan, with its distinctive boxy design and plush interior, was a popular choice for executives, celebrities, and those seeking the ultimate in comfort and prestige.
But beyond its glamorous exterior, the Brougham represented a pivotal moment in Cadillac’s history, reflecting the changing tastes of the American car buyer and foreshadowing the challenges the brand would face in the years to come.
The Brougham was positioned as the pinnacle of Cadillac’s lineup, targeting those who desired the most luxurious and well-appointed vehicle. Its distinctive styling, with its sharp angles and prominent grille, was a departure from the more rounded designs of previous Cadillacs, embodying the bold aesthetic of the 1980s.
Inside, the Brougham offered a haven of comfort and refinement, featuring plush leather seating, wood-grain accents, and an array of technological advancements for the time, including an AM/FM stereo with cassette player and climate control.
Powertrain and Performance: 1982 Cadillac Brougham
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham was a luxurious full-size sedan designed for comfort and smooth cruising. Its powertrain options reflected this focus, prioritizing effortless acceleration and a refined driving experience.
Engine Options
The 1982 Brougham offered two engine choices: a 5.7-liter (350 cubic inch) small-block V8 and a 6.0-liter (368 cubic inch) diesel V8.
- The 5.7-liter V8, known as the “350” in GM parlance, generated 140 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising, while its smooth operation contributed to the Brougham’s luxurious character.
- The 6.0-liter diesel V8, also known as the “368” engine, produced 125 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. This engine was designed for fuel efficiency and provided a significant advantage in terms of range, making it an appealing choice for long-distance driving.
Despite its lower horsepower output, the diesel engine provided ample torque for effortless acceleration and towing.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Both engine options were paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, which provided smooth and seamless gear changes. The Brougham featured a rear-wheel drive layout, a configuration common among luxury cars of the time.
Performance Comparison
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham’s performance was in line with other luxury cars of the era. Its smooth acceleration and comfortable ride made it a pleasant vehicle for everyday driving, while its fuel efficiency, particularly with the diesel engine, was a notable advantage.
While not known for its sporty handling or blistering acceleration, the Brougham offered a refined and comfortable driving experience that was well-suited to its target market.
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham, with its plush velour interior and imposing size, was a symbol of American luxury in the early 80s. While it lacked the sleek, futuristic design of its predecessors, the Brougham still possessed a certain charm, a reminder of a bygone era when Cadillacs were synonymous with opulence.
Those who crave a more classic, flamboyant style might be drawn to the 1967 Cadillac Eldorado , with its dramatic fins and bold chrome accents. But for those who appreciate the understated elegance and comfort of the Brougham, it remains a timeless classic.
Features and Technology
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham, a symbol of luxury and comfort in its time, was packed with features that aimed to enhance the driving experience and provide a sense of opulence. From its plush interior to its advanced technology for the era, the Brougham offered a unique blend of comfort and innovation.
Standard and Optional Features, 1982 Cadillac Brougham
The 1982 Brougham came standard with a plethora of features that catered to the discerning driver. These included power steering, power brakes, automatic transmission, air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and a vinyl roof. The Brougham also offered a wide range of optional features, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their preferences.
These options included:
- Leather upholstery:Upgrading to leather seats added a touch of luxury and sophistication to the interior.
- Power windows and locks:These features provided convenience and ease of use, making the driving experience more enjoyable.
- Rear window defroster:This feature ensured clear visibility in all weather conditions, enhancing safety.
- Cruise control:This option allowed for relaxed and comfortable long-distance driving.
- Tilt steering wheel:This feature allowed drivers to adjust the steering wheel to their preferred position, enhancing comfort and control.
- Electronic climate control:This advanced system provided precise temperature regulation for optimal comfort.
- Cassette player:This option allowed drivers to enjoy their favorite music while on the road.
- Rear-seat entertainment system:This feature provided entertainment for passengers in the back seat, adding to the overall luxury experience.
- Moonroof:This option added a touch of openness and airiness to the interior, enhancing the driving experience.
- Landau top:This unique feature gave the Brougham a distinctive look and added a touch of elegance.
Audio Systems
The 1982 Brougham offered a range of audio systems to suit different tastes and preferences. The standard AM/FM radio provided basic audio entertainment, while the optional cassette player allowed drivers to enjoy their favorite tapes. Some models even featured a rear-seat entertainment system, providing entertainment for passengers in the back.
Climate Control
The 1982 Brougham featured a standard air conditioning system that kept the interior cool and comfortable, even in hot weather. Some models were equipped with an optional electronic climate control system, which provided more precise temperature regulation.
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham, with its plush velour interiors and imposing size, was a symbol of luxury in its day. But before the Brougham, there was the iconic 1950 Cadillac Series 62 , a car that defined post-war American automotive elegance with its sweeping lines and powerful V8 engine.
Both the Brougham and the Series 62 represent different eras of Cadillac’s legacy, each capturing the spirit of its time with a unique blend of style and performance.
Safety Features
Safety was a priority in the 1982 Brougham. Standard safety features included power brakes, power steering, and a rear window defroster. The Brougham also offered optional safety features, such as a driver’s side airbag, which was a relatively new technology at the time.
Comparison with Other Luxury Cars
The 1982 Brougham competed with other luxury cars of the same era, such as the Lincoln Continental and the Imperial. Compared to these competitors, the Brougham offered a similar level of comfort and features. However, the Brougham’s unique styling and reputation for reliability made it a popular choice among luxury car buyers.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham, with its opulent design and undeniable presence, carved a distinct niche in popular culture, becoming more than just a car – it was a symbol of a bygone era. This car wasn’t just about transportation; it was a statement, a reflection of the times, and a piece of Americana that resonated with a generation.
The Brougham in Popular Culture
The 1982 Brougham’s distinctive features, like its plush interior, opera windows, and signature landau roof, made it a frequent fixture in popular media, capturing the essence of the 1980s. Its prominent role in movies, TV shows, and music videos cemented its place in the cultural landscape.
- Movies:The Brougham’s presence in films like “Scarface” (1983) and “Beverly Hills Cop” (1984) solidified its association with gangster chic and the rise of the “Miami Vice” aesthetic, where sleek, powerful cars played a pivotal role in storytelling.
- Television:The Brougham was a recurring sight on popular television shows like “Miami Vice,” “Knight Rider,” and “The A-Team,” further enhancing its image as a vehicle of power and style. Its presence in these shows, which reflected the trends and anxieties of the era, contributed to the Brougham’s cultural cachet.
- Music Videos:The Brougham’s imposing silhouette and luxurious appeal made it a favorite choice for music videos in the 1980s, further amplifying its association with the decade’s cultural trends. Artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince featured the Brougham in their videos, showcasing its opulent aesthetic and reinforcing its connection to the era’s musical landscape.
Notable Owners and Events
The 1982 Brougham’s allure attracted a diverse array of owners, including celebrities, politicians, and business leaders. This further cemented its association with success, prestige, and the American dream.
- Ronald Reagan:The 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan, was known for his love of Cadillacs, and he often rode in a 1982 Brougham during his presidency. This association elevated the car’s status, linking it to power and national leadership.
- Elvis Presley:Though not owning the 1982 model, Elvis’s affinity for Cadillacs, particularly the 1955 Cadillac Eldorado, contributed to the car’s association with iconic figures and the American dream. The Brougham, as a successor to these classic models, inherited this legacy of grandeur and extravagance.
Market and Sales
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham, a symbol of luxury and comfort, navigated a shifting automotive landscape marked by rising fuel prices, economic uncertainty, and the emergence of new competitors. Its sales performance reflected the complex interplay of these factors, revealing both strengths and weaknesses in its market position.
Sales Performance
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham was a popular choice among luxury car buyers, selling over 100,000 units that year. This success was driven by its established reputation for comfort, spaciousness, and a smooth ride, appealing to a segment of the market that valued traditional luxury values.
However, the Brougham’s sales were not immune to the economic challenges of the early 1980s. The rising cost of fuel and a shift in consumer preferences toward smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles impacted its overall sales figures.
Factors Affecting Sales
- Fuel Efficiency:The Brougham’s large size and powerful engine contributed to its relatively poor fuel economy, a significant drawback in an era of rising gasoline prices. This factor limited its appeal to buyers seeking fuel-efficient options.
- Economic Recession:The early 1980s witnessed a period of economic recession, impacting consumer spending. The high price tag of the Brougham made it a less appealing option for buyers facing financial constraints.
- Emerging Competition:The luxury car market was becoming more competitive, with European and Japanese manufacturers introducing sophisticated and fuel-efficient models that challenged the dominance of American luxury brands. This competition eroded the Brougham’s market share.
- Changing Consumer Preferences:The luxury car market was evolving, with buyers increasingly seeking performance and technology alongside traditional luxury attributes. The Brougham, while comfortable, lacked the sporty performance and advanced features offered by newer competitors.
Market Position
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham occupied a specific niche within the luxury car market, catering to buyers who valued traditional luxury values like comfort, spaciousness, and a smooth ride. However, its position was challenged by the changing market dynamics of the early 1980s.
The rising popularity of smaller, more fuel-efficient luxury cars from European and Japanese manufacturers, coupled with the economic recession, eroded the Brougham’s market share.
Final Wrap-Up
The 1982 Cadillac Brougham, with its blend of luxury, style, and technological innovation, left a lasting impression on the automotive landscape. Though its sales numbers may not have matched its grand ambitions, the Brougham remains a fascinating time capsule, reflecting the cultural and economic trends of the early 1980s.
Its influence can be seen in subsequent Cadillac models, as the brand continued to refine its offerings, seeking to recapture the grandeur and prestige of its golden era.