Cadillac produced 1250 units of the XLR roadster for the 2008 model year, part of a run of 15,460 vehicles sold throughout a production run of six years. That was likely a severe disappointment for the folks at Cadillac, as Mercedes sold 5464 examples of the SL-class roadster in America that same year. A small percentage of these were destined to become Cadillac XLR-Vs, as part of Cadillac’s successful V-series line of high performance offerings. In the XLR, the V-Series sported dynamic componentry akin to that of AMG-grade Mercedes SLs, from bigger brakes to a supercharged Northstar V-8 making 443 horsepower. That’s a lot of motivation under that power-bulge hood, but sadly only a reported 392 V-series were sold in 2008.
Rarity is only one part of the XLR V-series’ equation. That’s because the star-crossed, Corvette C6–inspired, high performance droptop was also a stellar performer with styling touches that took Cadillac’s Art and Science design aesthetic even further than the base XLR did. As you see in this example for sale on Hagerty Marketplace, the mesh grille and bigger wheels give this special Cadillac even more road presence.
The XLR’s hallmark folding roof looks almost as good in the up position as it does folded down. The V-series exclusive 19-inch wheels do a fantastic job filling up the wheel arches, and the black paint wraps it all up in an aggressive and sinister cloak.
It’s a shame that so few XLRs were ordered with the V-Series package, but seeing is fully appreciating. And there’s no mistaking the fact it is roughly 500 pounds lighter than the AMG-fettled Mercedes SL 55. Putting both on a racetrack could make the driver wonder why the Cadillac is rarer than the Mercedes.
The V-Series telltales are more subtle inside the vehicle, yet similarly impressive. There are suede inserts in the heated and cooled bucket seats, and the V-Series emblem is emblazoned on the tachometer. Suede also graces the door cards, and Zingana wood trim with aluminum inserts represents a significant upgrade from a base XLR.
But the pièce de résistance in this package is of course the supercharged Northstar LC3 motor under that impossibly long hood.
A whopping 414 lb-ft of torque is nothing without control of a bespoke sport car chassis, especially one that’s been well maintained. This rare gem sports new brakes, front Magneride struts, and new tires. And that’s just for starters, as this modestly-higher mileage example (76,341 miles reported) has clearly lived a charmed life beyond that of a garage queen.
This XLR-V is so impressive in its detailing that it makes you wonder if more product mix should have been routed to this vehicle instead of its more sedate XLR brother. Perhaps not, but it’s clear which trim level is more appealing today—and not just because of the performance, but because of its rarity.
That isn’t always a good thing, as parts and service for all XLRs will likely continue to be difficult for the average consumer. Luckily Travis Wolfe restores electronics unique to Corvettes and XLRs, including those famously rare and expensive LED tail light assemblies.
As we previously discussed, Cadillac’s XLR is an homage to the custom built Cadillacs of their past, be it Allanté or Eldorado Brougham, and it fits nicely with its modern-day moonshot, the Cadillac Celestiq. But not XLRs are created equal. This black V-series with the optional chrome wheels is a rarity amongst an already exclusive selection. Its next owner must know they are buying something truly special—something truly evocative of the era, with only 391 peers sharing that title.
The current price is very reasonable but there is still time for this thing to lift off to Saturn. If I were closer I would think very hard on this one but long distance car shopping is not my thing
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