You just need to look at the customer demographics at the time (1990's) and who actually drove these cars.

Most were not too concerned with BMW-like handling.

Fast-forward fifteen+ years, and second or third owners, usually (not always) come from a demographic that appreciates a better handling (usually stiffer) vehicle.

70's-90's Cadillacs were floaty soft, IMHO, but some of today's Caddy's ride just like a BMW and/or Mercedes.

:-) neil