The Kennedy family is one of the most iconic in American History, and it’s shown in Cadillac’s relationship, so to speak, with Jackie Kennedy.

A truly classic Cadillac model inspired by Jacqueline Kennedy went up for auction on February 5th in Paris.  The estimated selling price was judged to surpass the $250k mark, as predicted by Bonham, the outfit overseeing the auction of this beautifully styled Cadillac model.  As of the writing of this post, the actual priced paid at the event had not been released.

1961 Cadillac “Jacqueline” Coupe

This vehicle was a special edition designed the same year that John F. Kennedy was elected President of the United States.  It was made by an Italian coach designing company, Pininfarina.  If you are unfamiliar with this auto designer, they have been around since the 1930′s and have worked with many auto companies to design special edition autos, many of which are current collector’s items or may be found in museums, etc.  During the period of 1958 to 1961, Pininfarina designed several Cadillac models, including the one inspired by Ms. Kennedy.

Shortly after its manufacture in the early 1960′s, this model became a fixture in the Pininfarina museum, where an esteemed car collector eventually purchased it.  In the mid-90′s, the president of Cartier purchased the Jacqueline coupe and sent to the United States where some restoration was done to make it drivable on America’s roadways.  What is even more noteworthy about this Cadillac is that it hardly has any mileage on it and is fitted with the original interior.  Even though it’s a vehicle you won’t likely ever see at a Chicago Cadillac dealership, it’s undoubtedly a stand-out model of its time, inspired by someone who is very much a part of American culture even today.

Other features of the 1961 coupe

The Jacqueline coupe was a two door model that featured no back seating and two, front bucket seats.  Like the current Chicago CTS coupe on the market, there’s clearly a preference for Cadillacs that feature a two door styling.  The 1961 model also had a brushed steel roof and a very large grille that held the headlights. 

Check out the attached picture and give us your impression of this classic car.

Cadillac is coming up with new and improved models to entice new drivers along with keeping current ones happy.  There is everything from sporty coupes to large luxury SUVs with the Cadillac badge to appeal to all different needs behind the wheel.  For drivers who enjoy the more “typical” Cadillac design we’ve seen through the years, perhaps the 2011 STS is the sedan for them to drive? 

New Engines

Some STS models in previous years were fitted with V8 engines.  Now, with the 2011 STS, all the engine choices across the trims come with a V6.  We’re not sacrificing power, though, by saying good-bye to V8′s, but saying yes to better gas mileage and V6 engines with plenty of power.  Sounds like a good thing to us.  We even have a few STS models in the Chicago Cadillac used cars inventory found here at Patrick Cadillac.  These models all come with V6′s as part of the powertrain, so you can get a feel for what is standard across the board for 2011.

There are many resasons why you should test drive the STS now.  Here are a few more vehicle highlights from this sedan:

• Offers a very pleasant driving experience:  Really good pickup, handles very well in different driving conditions, and the steering is top-notch too.
• Driver and front passenger seating that is very comfortable and roomy
• Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Auto Climate Control System comes standard
• Heated Mirrors and heated wood grain steering wheel- can you say very useful during these long and cold Chicago winters!

Another feature found on the newest STS models is the Magnetic Ride Control.  This is a system developed by GM that provides an overall better ride, thanks to magnet-like features that help control the suspension.  This is the system that makes the handling and steering stand out.  It reduces the car’s noise, roll, and harshness resulting in a safer and more enjoyable ride.  For the availability of this feature in other Cadillac models, such as the Chicago SRX, please talk to the staff here at Patrick Cadillac.

The 2011 STS is a powerful and high performing sedan that you should check out now if you want a more traditionally styled Cadillac to cruise around in.

This renowned actor was featured in some Cadillac ads that ran during the Rose Bowl game on New Years Day and will also be featured in some ad spots that will run on Super Bowl Sunday, which is a great chance for a company to showcase its products, as this big game gets millions of viewers each year.  Cadillac is exciting to be working with Laurence Fishburne, as well as launching a new campaign of advertisements to showcase some of their great models, which are currently part of the inventory at a Cadillac dealer in Chicago, Patrick Cadillac.

2011 CTS models

The CTS coupe was shown to us a few years ago as a concept and many Cadillac fans have been anxiously awaiting its arrival.  It available here at our dealership in both Performance and Premium trims.  Both share many standard features including some of these listed:

• OnStar that includes one year of Directions and Connections Plan
• 18 inch Premium wheels
• XM radio and a three month trial package
• Advanced headlight system and fog lights
• Six-Speed Automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive
• Very high quality Bose Stereo System with 10 speakers

The 2011 Chicago CTS line up also comes with the choice of a sedan or the CTS-V coupe, which is a performance enhanced version of the CTS Coupe, including more powerful engines and a more aerodynamic design.

Other 2011 Cadillac options

If you would love a brand new Cadillac, there are other options in addition to the CTS available now at Patrick Cadillac.  You can check out the DTS, Escalade, STX, and STS models today.  These models give you the option of a large luxury SUV, mid-size SUV, sedan or coupe, sure to cater to all driving preferences.  Take a look at our inventory now!

If you are into big, luxurious SUVs that are sure to make your neighbors jealous to see sitting in your driveway, Patrick Cadillac has the perfect auto for you: the 2011 Escalade is in stock and there are plenty of trims to choose from.  Let’s see what makes this SUV a luxury you won’t want to pass up.

Fabulous Exterior

When you see a Chicago Escalade breeze down the highway or a side street, there’s no mistaking it’s a Cadillac.  You see the luxury that other auto makers cannot always compete with.  The large grille with the Cadillac logo in the middle is a standout feature, along with the 22-inch chrome wheels that seem to be a big hit with those who come into a local Cadillac dealer in Chicago.  Also, the front headlights are styled in a way that makes them flow very well with the grille.  Overall, the 2011 Escalade is one attractive SUV. 

Hard to Beat Technology

Those of us here at Patrick Cadillac know how important an auto with today’s technology features is to a driver.  If you check out our Premium or Platinum Collection Escalade models, you’ll find out that they come with Bluetooth connectivity, a 10 speaker Bose sound system, a Navigation system with map coverage in some areas even outside the US, and a Rearview Backup Camera to help see any pedestrians that might be in the auto’s track.  A lucky Escalade owner will also receive a 3 month trial for XM radio and one year of OnStar service. 

Convenience Features

The 2011 Escalade also has other amenities that make driving it so much fun.  Now that we’re into Chicago winters, the heated steering wheel in the Premium and Platinum models cannot be beat, nor can the heated driver or passenger seats.  In fact, both models even offer cup holders that can be heated or cooled, keeping hot beverages at your fingertips while running errands.  Other handy features include a memory seat and steering wheel memory, which is a perfect solution for multiple drivers of different sizes and heights. 

Have we persuaded you head out now to a Cadillac dealer in Chicago, namely Patrick Cadillac, and check this fantastic SUV out for yourself?

You don’t have to own a hybrid or full-on electric car to help the environment.  In fact, some everyday habits that Chicago DTS owners can follow will really make a positive impact on the world around us.

The first category of friendly tips fall under the Maintenance category.  It’s an area we know we need to keep up with, but owners of Cadillac cars, Chicago Escalade models, and beyond admit that routine maintenance is not always followed to a “T”.   First off, regular tune ups can pay off big, as they tremendously helps fuel economy.  Tune-ups include checking for low transmission fluid, dragging brakes, and aligning tires, just to name a few of the services.   Also, having your Cadillac’s emission control system checked regularly is a must-do to make sure your auto’s performance is top notch.

Moreover, driving your auto responsibly will also lessen the toll it may take on the world around us.  As hard as this is for some, driving the speed limit greatly increases the fuel economy of your Chicago DTS, SRX or other fine Cadillac model.  For example, driving the posted 65 mph speed limit instead of speeding up to 75 increases fuel economy by almost 10% and the lower speed lessens tailpipe pollution as well.  Avoiding stop and go traffic when possible and  eliminating hard and fast braking will decrease harmful emissions and other pollutants.

When heading to your favorite fill-up location, some gasoline savvy drivers remember these  important tips.  Use regular unleaded gas whenever you can, unless your Cadillac model specifically states that your use a premium or a higher octane.  Not only are these more expensive, but they don’t have any direct effect on improving fuel economy.   Furthermore, avoid topping off.  Gasoline that is spilled is not only wasteful, but it can run off into our drinking water supply and evaporates into the air, contributing to smog formation.

Some other suggestions for green driving include carpooling if you can, biking or walking to work, or taking advantage of any other workplace incentives for employees to reduce reliance on their autos.  Doing so is not only good for our environment, but may be a good way to get yourself moving more and feeling good!