Cadillac Allante Convertible
The Cadillac Allante represented General Motors' most ambitious attempt to challenge European luxury roadsters like the Mercedes-Benz SL. Bodies were designed and hand-built by Pininfarina in Turin, Italy, then airlifted to Detroit aboard specially configured Boeing 747 aircraft in what became known as the 'Allante Airbridge' — the longest production line in the world. The 1993 final-year model is the most desirable, as it received the all-new 4.6-liter Northstar V8 producing 295 horsepower, transforming the Allante from a pleasant cruiser into a genuinely quick automobile. The Northstar engine, coupled with the sophisticated 4T80-E electronically controlled transmission and four-wheel independent suspension, finally delivered the performance that the beautiful Pininfarina body deserved. Standard equipment included a power convertible top, removable hardtop, leather interior, electronic instrument cluster, and Cadillac's complete range of luxury features. Despite its considerable qualities, the Allante never achieved its sales targets, and production ended after the 1993 model year. Today, the final-year Northstar models are the most sought-after by collectors.
The 1993 Northstar V8 models are the ones to have. Check for head gasket issues on the Northstar engine — a known Achilles heel. Convertible top mechanisms are complex and expensive to repair. Body panels from Pininfarina are hand-formed and expensive. Electronic systems can be troublesome.
Total production across all years was approximately 21,430 units. The 1993 model year with the Northstar V8 saw only 4,670 units before production ended. Bodies were flown from Italy to Detroit by Boeing 747.