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There is a common perception that European manufacturers, particularly those in Germany, have a special understanding of the needs and...

1997 Cadillac Catera Review Summary & Specs

Base Sedan
The surprising new Caddy from Europe.

Summary & Specs

reviewed by New Car Test Drive

Catera is undeniably a quality product, one that offers the amenities

and road manners of its best rivals at a reasonable price. Where it comes

up a trifle short are in the purely subjective areas--exterior style and

engine response, both qualities where the 3-SeriesBMW in particular handily

outscores the small Cadillac--best left up to the individual customer.

On the other hand, this is the roomiest car in its class, attractively

appointed, nicely finished and exceptionally well equipped.

The only way to know for certain what your reactions will be, of course,

is to go for a test drive. But if you're in the market for a modestly-priced

luxury/sport sedan, we think the Catera offers exceptional value.

And if your image of Cadillac is based on the wallowing land yachts

of yesteryear, we think you'll find the Catera is a pleasant surprise.

Specs

Vehicle Category Luxury Cars
Editor Ray Thursby
Model Lineup
Engines (standard) 3.0-liter dohc 24v V6
Engines (optional)
Transmissions (standard) 4-speed automatic
Transmissions (optional)
Safety Equipment (standard) ABS, dual airbags, front side airbags
Safety Equipment (optional)
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled In Russelsheim, Germany
Manufacturer Phone 1-800-333-4223
Manufacturer URL www.cadillac.com
Base Price MSRP $30,635

Specs as Tested

Model Tested MSRP Catera
Standard Equipment Automatic climate control a/c, AM/FM/cassette audio, power seats,power windows, power mirrors, keyless remote entry, traction control, automatic load-leveling, rear-seat pass-through, aluminum alloy wheels
Destination Charge
Options as Tested (MSRP) Leather seats, chrome wheels, premium AM/FM/CD audio system, power sunroof, garage-door opener
Gas Guzzler Tax
Price as Tested $37,645
Layout
Horse Power 200 @ 6000
Torque 192 @ 3600
Fuel Economy 19/26
Wheelbase 107.4
Length/Width/Height 193.8/70.3/57.4
Track Front/Rear 59.1/59.8
Turning Radius 36.2
Seating Capacity 5
Front Head/Hip/Leg room 38.6/54.9/42.0
Middle Head/Hip/Leg room
Rear Head/Hip/Leg room 37.8/55.0/38.2
Trunk Volume 16.6
Payload
Towing Capacity
Front Suspension Independent
Rear Suspension Independent
Ground Clearance
Curb Weight 3770
Stock Tires P225/55R-16
Brakes Front/Rear disc/disc
Fuel Capacity 18.0

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