We were sad to learn that model year 2019 will be the end of the CTS-V. What began in 2004 by shoving a Corvette Z06 drivetrain into an unassuming Cadillac has evolved into a supercharged 640 horsepower sledgehammer. From the factory, it offers 640 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque, but the engine is unchanged from its 650 hp and torque as rated in the Z06. But Hennessey has learned how to squeeze incredible power out of the stock bottom end.
I honestly expected them to start with a 6.8 (414 ci) stroker crank to achieve 1,000 horsepower and 996 lb-ft of torque. But all the modifications are done to the top end. Starting with a custom camshaft, their hand-ported heads have larger valves, springs, and retainers.
Lifters and hardened pushrods will answer the call of your right foot, as they are pressurized by a giant supercharger. A new intercooler and heat exchanger have been repeatedly tested in the Texas heat, and each car is tuned on the road and on their dyno. The exhaust headers and high-flow cats are stainless steel, and they are tuned to match the increased duration of the cam.
Check Out The Fastest Quarter Mile Cars
A CTS-V with over twice the power of mine makes me consider nitrous oxide, but perhaps a road trip to Sealy, TX will cure my blues. The HPE1000 package is available to all CTS-V sedans from 2016 to present, and it is backed by a 2-year 24,000-mile warranty. If you want a big & comfy Caddy that reaches 60 mph in 2.9 seconds, get ready to scare your passengers. Crossing the quarter mile at 10.5 seconds at 135 mph is no joke, so click the link below for all the details.
