Cadillac ATS-V.R: Another Race-Bound Cadillac
When GM launched its CTS-V sedan, we were quite surprised to see that it had the ambition to go up against the Germans, who were deeply entrenched in the sport sedan segment. However, to build a new sports car’s reputation, you have to bring it to the track. This is why GM commissioned the CTS-V.R. During the last few years, this car proved that the laurel wreath brand (which has lost said laurel wreath, by the way) could build a race car, winning 26 times, earning 91 podiums and winning the Pirelli World Challenge 5 times.
It’s now time for the ATS-V to prove itself, and Cadillac chose to use the same recipe by creating the ATS-V.R. However, this one won’t only dominate in North America: since it meets GT3 specs, it will race against the European race teams on their home soil.
With a modified version of the twin-turbo 3.6-litre V6, the ATS-V.R can output more than 600 horsepower, but for racing purposes it will be limited to 450. With massive use of carbon fibre (roof, trunk lid, fenders, doors, wing, front and rear bumpers, diffusers…), the whole car weighs only 1315 kg. A six-speed sequential gearbox with steering-mounted paddles is bolted to the rear axles, giving the racer a near-perfect weight distribution.
We will be able to see the car race against the rest of the GT3 pack at the start of the 2015 season.