1985 Cadillac Cimarron CART PPG Trackside Concept

The Cadillac Cimarron CART PPG Trackside was developed by Cadillac Design Studios as a design study, exploring numerous technological, aerodynamic, and design features. It was built on a 1985 Cadillac Cimarron platform with a five-inch extended wheelbase and equipped with a specially built front transversely-mounted 2.8-liter multi-port fuel-injected V6 engine with heavy-duty cooling. Its Dual Cowl Phaeton configuration was intended for VIP (Very Important Person) courtesy use during the CART/PPG Indy Car World Series of Racing Events. The 'DC' (Dual Cowl) phaeton configuration was reminiscent of classic 1930s styles when the 'DC' phaeton body styles were popular, especially on the Fleetwood bodied Cadillacs, including its V8, V12, and V16 models. The 1930s Cadillacs were among the most luxurious, powerful, opulent, and stylish vehicles of their era, with price tags that guaranteed their exclusivity. The dual-cowl allowed for protection from the wind for rear occupants while enjoying open-air motoring.

Among the numerous innovative and futurist features include the one-piece molded front and rear panels, door latch handles on the interior only, and specially designed windshield for both the front and rear compartments. The wipers were concealed beneath a rising panel. The interior housed lightweight, low-back bucket seats in the front and rear compartments, covered in soft leather. A vest-type, four-point seatbelt with 2-inch webbing added a Plethora of safety for all CART PPG Cimarron occupants.

High-tech electronics include Panasonic commercial television sets front and rear in unique, full-length consoles. There is a cellular telephone controlled by a fixed hub steering wheel. The phone could be used 'hands-free' or with a conventional handset. Also included was a two-way radio, with twin headsets in the front compartment. The passengers riding in the rear compartment were kept informed by an information panel that displays the status of various engine functions and outside temperatures.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2021