Jason Cammisa's RetroSpective: 2008 V8 German Sedans vs. Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

The Peak Sport Sedan Era: 2008 German V8s

• 🎯 In 2008, three high-revving, V8-powered compact sport sedans emerged: the Audi RS4, BMW M3 (E90/E92), and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.
• 💡 The Audi RS4 (B7) featured a 4.2L V8 with an 8000-rpm redline, 420 hp, and Audi's first rear-biased AWD system, offering brilliant chassis tuning but lacking drama.
• 🚀 The BMW M3 (E90/E92) introduced a 4.0L V8 revving to 8400 RPM, breaking specific output records, with independent throttle bodies and a haunting exhaust note, aiming to replace the E39 M5.
• 🔥 The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (W204) packed a 6.2L V8 producing 451 hp, offering immense torque and drama, though it lacked a manual transmission and was the heaviest.

Media Reception and Modern Comparison

• 🏆 When new, the BMW M3 won comparison tests, praised for its overall competence, while the C63 AMG often took second due to its power and noise, despite a harsh ride and less refined styling.
• 📉 The Audi RS4 typically finished third, lauded for its chassis but criticized for understeer, lack of drama, and higher cost.
• 🚗 Today, Audi no longer makes an RS4 in the same vein, BMW's M3 has grown significantly, and the C63 AMG has transitioned to a hybrid four-cylinder, arguably losing its AMG soul.

Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing: The New Benchmark?

• ⚡ The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is presented as today's benchmark sport sedan, praised for its alive, communicative, and engaging driving experience, with a shifter and clutch that feel akin to the best BMWs.
• ⚠️ Despite its modern advantages like ride quality and MR dampers, the Blackwing suffers from significant road noise and a twin-turbocharged V6 engine that lacks the charisma and response of the older V8s.
• 🏁 In speed tests, the old V8s remain competitive, with the C63 AMG showing surprising pace, but the Blackwing's engine is a notable drawback compared to the V8s' specialness and sound.

Enduring Appeal of the Classics

• 🌟 The 2008 German sedans, despite known issues like rod bearings (BMW), head bolts (Mercedes), and intake valve deposits (Audi), retain their appeal due to their V8 engines, sound, and driving engagement.
• 🧩 The Audi RS4 is highlighted as a collector's item due to its rarity (1/16th of M3/C63 production) and timeless styling, though it's less suited for track use.
• 🥇 The BMW M3 is deemed the best all-rounder, offering a blend of luxury, utility, and track capability, especially in later facelifted versions with improved steering and iDrive.
• 🚗 Ultimately, while the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing excels in modern metrics, the 2008 V8 sedans offer a more visceral, analog driving experience that has been somewhat lost in today's automotive landscape.