The 2009 Cadillac CTS V is already a formidable machine straight from the factory, but for true automotive enthusiasts, the quest for more power and enhanced performance is a never-ending journey. This is the story of a 2009 Cts V pushed to its limits, showcasing the incredible potential hidden within this iconic vehicle. From minimal bolt-ons to comprehensive engine work, witness the evolution of this CTS V and the impressive results achieved at the drag strip.
Stage 1: Initial Enhancements and E85 Power
Starting with a solid foundation, the initial modifications focused on maximizing the potential of the stock engine with supporting mods and a tune. Running on pump E85 fuel, the CTS V retained its factory rims and was fitted with MT ET Street drag radial tires for enhanced traction. Crucially, no weight reduction measures were taken, maintaining the car’s everyday street configuration.
The modifications at this stage included:
- A6 Transmission with 2.55 Upper Pulley: Increasing boost for more power.
- ID850 Injectors: Providing sufficient fuel for E85 and increased power levels.
- Stock Exhaust Manifolds and Hollowed Catalytic Converters: Improving exhaust flow while retaining a relatively stock sound profile.
- Stock Heat Exchanger: Managing intake air temperatures.
- 4.5″ Intake with Green Filter: Enhancing air intake volume.
- 160 Thermostat: Running cooler for optimal performance.
- Flex Fuel Sensor: Enabling seamless E85 fuel integration and tuning.
- ZL1 Lid: Upgrading the supercharger lid for better airflow and potentially intercooler capacity.
- Formato Tune: Custom engine and transmission calibration to optimize all modifications.
These modifications, dyno-tuned on drag radials and E70 fuel in hot and humid conditions, resulted in an impressive 624whp and 640wtq. However, the true measure of performance lies in real-world track times. In this configuration, the 2009 CTS V achieved a best ET of 10.49 seconds with a top speed of 133.6 mph, and an eighth-mile time of 105.14 mph. All this with minimal modifications, stock camshaft and heads, and no weight reduction, proving the effectiveness of well-chosen bolt-ons and a proper tune.
Stage 2: Unleashing the Full Potential with Engine Internals
Not content with the already impressive Stage 1 results, the next phase involved significant engine upgrades to unlock even more power. This stage focused on the cylinder heads, camshaft, and supporting fuel and cooling modifications.
The extensive upgrades included:
- Formato Ported Cylinder Heads: Enhancing airflow into and out of the engine.
- BT3 Camshaft: Upgrading to a performance camshaft profile for increased power.
- Formato Ice Tank: Improving intercooling efficiency for sustained performance.
- Varimax Pump: Upgrading the intercooler pump for better coolant circulation.
- Ported Supercharger and Snout: Further optimizing airflow through the supercharger system.
- 2.31 Lower Pulley/8.66 Upper Pulley Combo: Increasing boost to significantly higher levels.
- Stainless Works Headers: Replacing stock manifolds with long-tube headers for improved exhaust flow.
- Formato Tune: Recalibrating the engine management system to accommodate all the new modifications.
With these extensive modifications and running on E72 fuel, the 2009 CTS V dyno-ed at a staggering 747whp and 730wtq on drag radials. At the track, the car achieved a best ET of 10.08 seconds at 139.5 mph, with a 1.51 60-foot time, even with some tire spin. This was achieved on stock 19-inch wheels with MT Street SS tires and E68 fuel, again with no weight reduction and driven in its regular street trim. The eighth-mile performance also saw a significant jump to 112.77 mph, demonstrating the substantial power gains.
The journey of this 2009 CTS V exemplifies the remarkable performance capabilities of this platform. From simple bolt-ons to internal engine modifications, the car showcases a clear path to significant power increases and impressive track performance, all while retaining its street-drivable nature. The pursuit continues, with sights set on breaking into the 9-second quarter-mile range on 19-inch wheels and hitting the coveted 140 mph mark, proving that the potential of the 2009 CTS V is far from exhausted.
