Rare 2023 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing Watkins Glen IMSA Edition Is a Fun BMW M3 Alternative

Cadillac introduced the current-generation CT4-V back in early 2019, as a direct replacement for the ATS-V, except it wasn’t much of a successor. The ATS-V was a genuine BMW M3 rival, thanks to its 488 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. The CT4-V on the other hand is more of an M340i rival, seeing as how its 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four unit can only muster 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque.

That’s where the CT4-V Blackwing comes into play. This baby is powered by a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, good for 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque. While you can also get it with a 10-speed automatic, the standard box is a 6-speed manual. As you can imagine from these numbers, the Blackwing will absolutely demolish the standard CT4-V to 60 mph. The latter needs 4.8 seconds to get there (still quick), while the Blackwing can do it in 3.9 seconds.

The top speed favors the flagship spec as well, as it can max out at 189 mph (304 kph), as opposed to “just” 156 mph (251 kph).

It all sounds good so far, right? Well, get a load of this Electric Blue CT4-V Blackwing, which also happens to be one of just 99 Watkins Glen IMSA Edition models built for the 2023 model year.

Aside from the model-specific hood and carbon fiber elements (splitter, canards, diffuser, decklid spoiler), this speedy Caddy also comes with Watkins Glen IMSA Edition badging, LED headlights and taillights, mesh grilles, heated mirrors, quad exhaust outlets, a rearview camera, and a set of 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. Like any other CT4-V Blackwing, this too comes with a performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes.

Meanwhile, interior highlights include the heated, ventilated, massaging, and 18-way power-adjustable Signet leather front seats with carbon fiber seat backs, red seatbelts, carbon fiber center console trim, Watkins Glen IMSA Edition door sill plates, metal pedals, a heated steering wheel with a red centering stripe and carbon fiber trim, wireless phone charging, a head-up display, sat-nav, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, plus a 15 speaker AKG sound system.

When new, this car retailed for $84,515. Today, you can get it for a lot less than that if you hurry. I’m not saying it’s better than the equivalent BMW M3, but on average, it should be cheaper – especially with such few miles on the odometer.