I never had a V8 AMG, but I did own a 2022 BMW M3 Competition xDrive, which is in the same ballpark. Stepping into the Cadillac CT-5 Blackwing, the first thing you notice is the interior. Let’s be real, the materials aren’t quite up to German standards, especially the armrests and dash leather – feels more like a $50k car in those spots. But then you sink into the seats, which are fantastic, and spot the carbon fiber trim on the center console and doors, standard no less! BMW charges extra for that sporty touch.
The thing with modern German V8s, especially from AMG and BMW M, is the sound. Turbos really muffle the exhaust note. The C 63 AMG is better than some, but still doesn’t have that raw, screaming V8 character like the Blackwing’s LT4. Funny thing is, the LT4 sounds best from outside the car, you know, when you’re not actually driving it. Inside the Blackwing, it’s a different story. The ride is surprisingly refined, with sound deadening on par with German luxury cars. You do hear that V8 rumble, and it’s a step up from a turbo German V8, but truth be told, it’s not as loud in the cabin as I personally would love. Still, engine for engine, the LT4 just edges out any German engine on sale today, unless you’re talking about Porsche’s 4.0L flat-six.
Honestly, the Blackwing just wins across almost every category against its German rivals, except maybe fuel economy and those interior material details. People say AMG is cooler? Cooler to who exactly? Anyone who knows a C 63 or an M5 probably also knows what a Blackwing is. AMG and M, those brands have become so diluted in recent years. I’m not sure how they still hold onto this “cool” factor.
Sure, someone might compliment your AMG or M car just because of the badge, associating it with prestige without really knowing anything about it. But a compliment on a Blackwing? That’s genuine appreciation. Plus, it’s a seriously good-looking sedan. The Blackwing is peak performance sedan, it’s an “if you know, you know” kind of car.
And if you see a Blackwing with a MANUAL transmission? Forget about it. That’s the coolest sedan you can buy today, hands down. Way cooler than any run-of-the-mill AMG.
Think of it this way: the Blackwing is maybe 70% of the German car in interior quality, but it’s 130% in driving dynamics, 120% in interior sound, and a massive 200% on exterior sound. Ride quality? 120% thanks to that amazing Magride 4.0. And the price? Around 70% of what you’d pay for a comparable German model.
Oh, and let’s not forget the better warranty and the fact that it won’t lose half its value in four years, plus potentially painful German repair bills down the line. That’s a huge plus if you plan to keep your car for the long haul.
If you don’t care about having a German badge on the hood, and you’re okay with skipping winter tires (maybe), and you understand the interior isn’t quite as plush as a German competitor, you will not be disappointed with a Blackwing. The only thing you might find yourself wanting is maybe just a bit more of that glorious exhaust note inside the cabin.
