1964 Cadillac part

2004 Cadillac XLR

In less than 30 seconds the new Cadillac XLR transforms from coupe to a rocket roadster. GM selected the German based Car Top Systems to engineer and produce the retractable hardtop system and it is nothing short of an electro-hydraulic marvel. The precisely programmed choreography of body panels calls upon eight hydraulic cylinders powered by an electric pump to complete the opening or closing cycle. The opening sequence begins with raising the rear decklid with sturdy scissor arms. Because of the XLR styling, it was impractical to simply hinge the rear of the decklid just above the rear bumper as CTS has done with other systems for other carmakers.

With the decklid raised, the roof top and back window fold back in a clam shell manner into the trunk cavity. The quarter windows then fold inward followed by three separate tonneau panels which function to conceal the entire retraction mechanism and roof related panels. The XLR is a high profile, high price automobile and all parts have tight tolerances to ensure proper sealing under all weather conditions. And they also must have a class A finish. Sweating the details on the tonneau panels, for example, a special new ultra violet (UV) sealer is being applied to prevent gassing on the edges of these panels.

The Lingenfelter cars from the 2010 Concours d'Elegance at Meadowbrook

Lingenfelter Performance Equipment has become well-known for their ultra high performance General Motors products and owner Ken Lingenfelter is one of the most well-known car collectors in the world, so an event like the 2010 Concours d'Elegance is like the ideal venue for the Lingenfelter name to shine and shine it did.

Sneak Peek: 2013 Cadillac ATS

At first glance, this development car looks like nothing more than a standard CTS sedan.

Deal of the Week: 2010 Lincoln MKZ

For the 2010 model year, Lincoln updated its MKZ in an effort to drive sales and provide greater differentiation between the car and the Ford Fusion, the MKZ's platform-mate. These extensive revisions included freshened styling inside and out, a new Sport Appearance package, added convenience features and a new instrument panel and center stack.