Pros:
* Luxury features: For its year, it packed in a decent amount of luxury appointments – comfortable ride, relatively spacious interior, and some nice amenities depending on the trim level.
* Smooth ride: The DeVille was known for a comfortable and smooth ride.
Cons:
* Reliability: This is the biggest drawback. Many owners report issues with the Northstar V8 engine (a common engine in this generation), including problems with the cooling system, head gaskets, and other components. These repairs can be expensive.
* Electrical problems: Electrical gremlins are also frequently reported.
* Parts availability: Parts for older Cadillacs, particularly some specialized components, can be harder to find and more expensive than for more common vehicles.
* Fuel economy: Gas mileage wasn't great, even by the standards of the time.
Overall:
A 1997 Cadillac DeVille *can* be a good car, but it depends heavily on its maintenance history. If you're considering buying one, thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic specializing in older Cadillacs is absolutely crucial. Look for meticulously maintained examples with documented service records, as this significantly reduces the risk of costly repairs down the road. Be prepared for the possibility of significant repair expenses, even if it seems fine initially. It's a high-risk, high-reward proposition. If reliability is a top priority, you'd likely be better off with a different vehicle.
