2003 Cadillac Sixteen Concept
Specifications
Engine: 830 C.I. V16 (13.6 L)
Horsepower: 1000
Torque: 1000
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Front Suspension: Double Wishbone
Rear Suspension: Semi-trailing Arms
Steering: 4-wheel steering
Weight: 5005 lbs
In 2003, Cadillac launched the V16 concept that paid homage to the original Cadillac V16 (on display). With its incredible styling and grand size, it helped kick start a new era for Cadillac. The V16 was designed by Wayne Cherry, Brian Smith, Tom Stephens, and the rest of the GM design team.
The V16 engine comes to life when the driver hits green button on the dashboard to the right of the
wheel. The entire interior of the car is finished off leather, polished wood and aluminum. The carpets of the car are woven in silk, and the car features a center mounted clock made by Bvlgari. “The car's design represents an updated, and somewhat more elegant, variation on Cadillac's crisp-edged design language; perhaps some of the Sixteen's themes will show up on the upcoming Seville/STS and the next-generation DeVille.” (Motor Trend, Aug 4th, 2003). The door can be opened from the outside of the car
by pressing a button on the key fob or squeezing a button on the microswitch.
The engine of the Cadillac is a 13.6L V16 that develops 1000hp and 1000 and is matted to a 4 speed automatic. Even though the engine of the V16 was so massive, it was quite revolutionary for GM. It featured a system to shut down cylinders to increase fuel efficiency, which GM called “Displacement on Demand”. The engine was able to operate on four, eight, and sixteen cylinders. The chassis of the V16 was constructed from aluminum to reduce weight and increase structural rigidity.
The design of the 2003 V16 follows the design language of the 1930s cars in terms of proportions. At over 18.5 feet long, it’s about a foot longer than a full sized DeVille. The wheels on the V16 are massive with a 24-inch diameter, which house the 16in brake rotors. Even though the V16 weighed over 5k pounds, turning the car was easy because it was fitted with a four wheel steering mechanism. The car is finished off with 20 coats of paint. The base layer is black and has 19 extra layers of thin pearl paint to give it is shine.
