CT5-V Blackwing vs M5 CS: Super Sedan Showdown
Cadillac Blackwing vs BMW M5 CS comparison. American manual vs German DCT super sedans.
The Super Sedan Finale
The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing and BMW M5 CS represent the pinnacle of super sedan engineering—and possibly the end of an era. Both offer 600+ horsepower with track capability, but they approach the mission differently: the Blackwing with American character and a manual transmission option, the M5 CS with German precision and advanced technology.
These may be the last of the great gasoline-powered super sedans. This comparison helps you choose your final expression of the formula.
Detailed Comparison
The Ultimate Comparison
Power and Transmission
Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing:
- 6.2L supercharged LT4 V8, 668hp/659lb-ft
- 6-speed manual OR 10-speed automatic
- Rear-wheel drive standard, eAWD available
- 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds (auto)
BMW M5 CS:
- 4.4L twin-turbo S63 V8, 627hp/553lb-ft
- 8-speed M Steptronic automatic only
- M xDrive AWD (rear-bias)
- 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds
Powertrain verdict: Blackwing has more power and offers a manual. M5 CS is quicker with AWD.
Driving Character
Blackwing:
- Supercharger whine and V8 rumble
- Manual transmission engagement
- More traditional American muscle feel
- Magnetic Ride Control suspension
M5 CS:
- Twin-turbo response and precision
- Sharper, more clinical dynamics
- German engineering refinement
- Track-focused suspension and brakes
Track Capability
Both are legitimate track weapons:
- Blackwing: Carbon ceramic brakes available, manual engagement
- M5 CS: Lighter weight, sharper reflexes, standard carbon ceramics
The Manual Factor
The Blackwing's 6-speed manual transmission is unique in this segment. For enthusiasts who value three-pedal engagement, this alone may decide the choice.
Values
CT5-V Blackwing: $90,000-110,000 (MSRP)
BMW M5 CS: $142,000-150,000 (MSRP)
Vehicle A
Pros
- ✓ 668hp supercharged V8
- ✓ Manual transmission available
- ✓ Significant value advantage
- ✓ American muscle character
Cons
- ✗ Less refined interior
- ✗ Heavier than M5 CS
- ✗ RWD base (AWD optional)
- ✗ Cadillac resale concerns
Vehicle B
Pros
- ✓ Faster acceleration
- ✓ More refined dynamics
- ✓ Lighter weight
- ✓ BMW M pedigree
Cons
- ✗ No manual option
- ✗ Significantly more expensive
- ✗ Automatic only
- ✗ Limited production
The Verdict
The Verdict
Choose the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing if:
- Manual transmission matters to you
- American V8 character appeals more than European precision
- Value matters (significant price difference)
- You want more power per dollar
Choose the BMW M5 CS if:
- Ultimate acceleration is the priority
- You prefer German engineering refinement
- AWD confidence is important
- Track capability and weight savings matter
The reality: Both cars are magnificent. The Blackwing offers the last manual transmission in a super sedan—that alone makes it historically significant. The M5 CS is the faster, more refined machine but costs $40,000+ more.
For enthusiasts who understand what they're buying, the Blackwing represents remarkable value and a unique proposition. The M5 CS is the ultimate expression of BMW M if budget allows.