Watch A 1,000-HP CT5-V Blackwing Destroy A Corvette Z06 In A Drag Race

Sep. 20, 2023 1:25 PM ET byJarryd Neves Tuning /4 Comments

亨尼西claims the H1000 CT5-V Blackwing is the fastest combustion-only luxury sedan in the world.

亨尼西has announced that production of its monstrous 'H1000'Cadillac CT5-V Blackwingis finally underway, and to celebrate, it put it up against America's supercar, the Corvette Z06.

The standard CT5-V Blackwing is a powerful brute. The 6.2-liter LT4 V8 produces an incredible 668 horsepower and 659 lb-ft of torque. Offered with a six-speed manual or ten-speed automatic transmission, the big Caddy can sprint to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, regardless of the chosen gearbox. With a top speed of 205 mph, it's one of the world's fastest production sedans.

But that's not enough for theTexas-based tuner, which has upped power to a whopping 1,000 hp. For a start, Hennessey has fitted the LTE motor with ported cylinder heads, enhanced lifters and pushrods, enlarged heat exchangers, and new intake and exhaust valves. The V8 also benefits from long-tube stainless steel headers.

The 'Vette may be down on power and torque compared to the Cadillac, but it's significantly lighteranda purpose-built supercar.

But the Cadillac shows the range-topping Corvette no mercy, leaping ahead of the coupe in the first round. The mighty supercharged V8 bellow drowns out the howl of the Z06'ssupercar-inspired flat-plane crank V8, and the Cadillac wins by a two-car length. Yes, the drag race isn't exactly fair, but it demonstrates the capabilities of a CT5-V Blackwing with the H1000 package.

The factory-installed supercharger makes way for a high-flow item, while the company's Hennessey Engine Management Calibration software is applied to the engine. The results are a satisfying 1,000 hp and a tire-shredding 966 lb-ft of torque. As you would expect, straight-line performance has benefitted tremendously.

A second has been shaved off the 0 to 60 mph time, meaning this heft Cadillac luxury sedan accelerates as quickly as a Bugatti Veyron. Hennessey says the CT5-V Blackwing H1000 can cover the quarter-mile in 10.1 seconds. That's quick but not as rapid asthe Renntech-tuned RIIIx AMG GT 63．The tuner notes the top speed is on the good side of 200 mph, and, based on the video below, it has no issues reaching high speeds.

Those interested in the package will be pleased to know the H1000 upgrade comes standard with a two-year/24,000-mile limited warranty. Unfortunately, Hennessey doesn't list pricing for the performance kit but notes that it can be ordered directly from the tuner or via authorized Cadillac dealerships.

"Cadillac's CT5-V Blackwing, fitted with GM's supercharged LT4, was a natural candidate for our Exorcist upgrade as it improves power considerably without affecting drivability. Resurrected as an 'H1000,' the four-door Cadillac is the fastest combustion-only luxury sedan on the planet. It is a rare high-watermark in a segment that will vanish by the decade's end," said John Hennessey, CEO and founder of Hennessey.