Cadillac Cimarron
The infamous 'Cavalier in drag' that became a cautionary tale of badge engineering.
- Power
- 86 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 13.7 s
- Top speed
- 92 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$8k
About the Cadillac Cimarron
Introduced as a hasty response to the success of European compact luxury sedans like the BMW 3 Series, the Cimarron is widely cited as one of the greatest product failures in automotive history. It was built on the GM J-body platform, sharing almost all its sheet metal and mechanical components with the budget-oriented Chevrolet Cavalier. Despite standard leather upholstery and Cadillac's 'Touring Suspension', the underpowered four-cylinder engine and lack of visual distinction failed to convince buyers. Today, it is a cult classic at events like RADwood, valued more for its historical notoriety and rarity than its driving dynamics.
Cadillac Cimarron specs
The Cadillac Cimarron produces 86 bhp (64 kW) and 149 Nm (110 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 13.7 seconds and has a top speed of 92 mph (148 km/h).
| Make | Cadillac |
|---|---|
| Model | Cimarron |
| Trim | 2.0 |
| Years | 1982–1988 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $12,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.0-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 86 bhp (64 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 149 Nm (110 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 13.7 s |
| Top speed | 92 mph (148 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,197 kg (2,639 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 72 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Cadillac Cimarron worth?
A typical Cadillac Cimarron is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $8,000 (about £1,100 – £6,000).
Its original price when new was about $12,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Cadillac Cimarron rarity in CarSpot
The Cadillac Cimarron is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 15 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Cadillac Cimarron fun facts
- The Cimarron was so controversial that Cadillac's product director later kept a picture of it on his wall with the caption 'Lest we forget'.
- It was the first Cadillac to offer a four-cylinder engine since 1914 and the first to offer a manual transmission since 1950.
- Early marketing materials avoided the Cadillac name, referring to it simply as 'Cimarron, by Cadillac' to protect the brand's prestige.