Cadillac returns to prototype endurance racing with a real stunner
They really need to work on their naming, though. DPi-V.R? Come on.
After 14 long years, Cadillac has announced its return to prototype endurance racing, and it's got a hell of a race car for the job.
The new Cadillac DPi-V.R will compete in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in the Prototype class. Dallara built the chassis, as cars participating in this class must use a chassis from one of four approved constructors.
The bodywork and engines come from the manufacturer, and it's quite clear that this is a Cadillac from any angle. It borrowed a great deal of aesthetics from its current performance lineup, including the CTS-V sedan. The air intake was designed to mimic the Cadillac crest. And, of course, there are Cadillac badges and stickers galore.
Be still, my beating heart.
As for a power plant, the DPi-V.R uses a 6.2-liter, naturally aspirated V8 engine. It'll put out approximately 600 horsepower. All that power heads to the rear wheels by way of a paddle-actuated transmission. Brembo brakes will bring the car to a stop when necessary. The whole package is surprisingly light, weighing just 2,050 pounds, which is less than a new Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Of course, it wouldn't be a new race car without a bit of tech, as well. It's packing the same Rear Camera Mirror found on the CT6 sedan and other new Cadillac models. It's not exactly easy to see through the mess of bodywork behind the cockpit, so a camera is all but necessary.
We'll be able to see the Cadillac DPi-V.R in action starting early next year. Its first competitive outing will be at the Rolex 24 at Daytona on January 28, which is the IMSA season opener. Two different teams will field variants of this racecar -- Wayne Taylor Racing and Action Express Racing.
