For $85,000, you can have the most powerful Cadillac ever produced

[Cadillac CTS-V News]

The CTS-V is the fastest and most powerful Cadillac production car ever.

Equipped with a 640 hp supercharged V-8, it clocks a zero-to-60-mph time of 3.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 200 mph.

It is only a tenth of a second slower than the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG and much quicker than the BMW M5, which reaches 60 mph in 4.2 seconds.

Like the other V models, it is essentially a high-performance variant of the base model packed with race-bred technology. In this case that includes sophisticated aerodynamics and cooling systems and a stiffer chassis that keeps the car more composed around corners.

The CTS-V?s four drive modes?touring, sport, snow, and track?vary the shift points on the 8-speed automatic transmission. The drive settings also affect the ride quality, which ranges from soft and pliable in touring mode to planted and unshakable in sport mode. Regardless of the drive setting, the latest version of Magnetic Ride Control, Cadillac?s adaptive suspension system, adjusts almost instantly to keep the car on an even keel.

The most obvious visual differences between the CTS and CTS-V are the latter?s wider grille and larger air intakes, both of which increase airflow into the engine. A bulging vent on the carbon-fiber hood allows hot air to escape and improves downforce.

As fast and powerful as it is, the CTS-V is still suited to daily driving. To save fuel, its engine will automatically switch from running eight cylinders to four when cruising about town. The cabin is quiet thanks in part to technology that cancels out noise from under the hood. The 20-way adjustable sport seats are covered in leather and available in such color combinations such as jet black and saffron.

• Configuration: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sedan
• Engine: 6.2-liter supercharged V-8
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Power: 640 hp at 6,400 rpm
• Torque: 630 ft lbs at 3,600 rpm
• Curb Weight: 4,145 lbs
• Zero to 60 mph: 3.7 seconds
• Top Speed: 200 mph
• Base Price: $84,990

Read the original article on Robb Report.