The American high-performance sedan is a dying breed. V8 engines, manual transmissions and a rear-wheel-drive platform reward everyday drivers on the commute and experts on the track. TRUE, hybrids and electrified vehicles Sometimes they’re faster and more powerful, but there’s nothing like a classic high-performance V8 car with a beefy exhaust.
Since the original CTS-V in 2004, Cadillac has spent more than 20 years perfecting this specific model. It was a bold move for a brand that, at the time, was still largely associated with the smooth-riding cruisers your grandparents drove on the early bird special (2008 DTS, anyone?). The Series V didn’t just change that retirement reputation; It burned all the way across Bob Evans’ parking lot.
On that journey, the V Series badge evolved from a niche experiment to a world-class performance sub-brand. Along the way, Cadillac wasn’t afraid to get ambitious, if not downright crazy. We saw the 2006 STS-V with its hand-built supercharged Northstar V8, followed by the 2011. CTS-V wagona long-roofed, 556-horsepower unicorn that remains one of the most sought-after collector cars today.
Later, the 2016 ATS-V proved that Cadillac could master precision handling with a twin-turbo V6, paving the way for the current Blackwing era. Enter the luxury automaker once considered the world’s standard Formula 1The CT5-V Blackwing F1 Collector series is the ideal farewell.
- Basic tuning motor
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3L V6 ICE
- Base Fit Transmission
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10 speed automatic
- Base trim powertrain
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rear wheel drive
The most powerful Blackwing yet
Improved supercharger devised by GM engineers
With a production run of just 26 units (referring to the year Cadillac joined F1), this one-off Blackwing is arguably more exclusive than most modern supercars.
The Blackwing represents the ultimate package for Cadillac loyalists and American muscle car enthusiasts. While members of that group no doubt have their favorite Series V car, who wouldn’t want to be one of the lucky 26 to have their hands on the wheel and feet on the pedals of it?
Working alongside GM Motorsports team members, Cadillac engineers created the most powerful Blackwing to date. The 6.2-liter V8, which produces 685 horsepower and 673 lb.-ft. of torque, has an upgraded supercharger with a CNC-machined shroud and a laser-etched FIA logo, created in-house by GM Motorsports staff.
All 26 cars come exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, while aerodynamic tweaks and thermal management improvements are the result of data collected during Cadillac’s endurance races.
- Radar band detection
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X, K, Ka
- Companion App
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Drive smarter
The Escort MAX 360c MKII is the follow-up to the standard MAX 360c radar detector. This upgraded version features longer range detection with its updated dual antenna platform and greater false alert filtering through Blackfin DSP integration.
Chassis, braking and suspension.
Precision package offers track-focused upgrades
As its name suggests, the CT5-V Blackwing F1 Collector Series was developed in conjunction with Formula 1 and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body of global motor sport. As Mark Reuss, president of General Motors, noted, each car is “selected to be a centerpiece in any collection and a true celebration of Cadillac’s new era in Formula 1.”
It’s fitting then that every Collector Series car comes with the Precision Package, a set of track-focused upgrades that includes:
- Carbon ceramic brakes: Improved rotors provide consistent stopping power while reducing unsprung weight. The braking system is completed with custom calipers in metallic port gray.
- Custom Chassis Tuning: Specialized front steering knuckles and rear toe links provide more precise turning for high-speed cornering.
- Magnetic ride control: GM’s old suspension system has been calibrated for the higher power of the F1-inspired Blackwing. Other suspension improvements include firmer springs and an 11% stiffer stabilizer bar.
Exterior highlights and interior touches.
Cadillac F1 decoration
Each car comes finished in Midnight Stone Frost, a matte black paint that reflects the Cadillac F1 Team livery. Exterior highlights include Carbon Flash Metallic wheels, monochromatic Cadillac logos, and carbon fiber lower bodywork accented by a Switchblade Silver pinstripe.
As the first American road car to feature the official F1 and FIA logos, branding is displayed throughout, including the doors, spoiler, rocker panels, sill, headrests and center console. The interior also features unique details, including a 3D printed F1 gear shift medallion and custom Cadillac Formula 1 door sill plate.
An American icon who is already in the history books.
By leaning into its Formula 1 future with a car that honors its V8 roots, Cadillac has created a permanent piece of automotive history, one that only 26 people will be able to experience from the driver’s seat.
“The CT5-V Blackwing embodies the best of Cadillac track performance,” said Reuss. “With the F1 Collector Series, we are channeling the energy and innovation of Formula 1 into a road-ready sedan that feels as special as our entry into the sport.”
