Detroit Auto Show 2003 Highlights

Cadillac Sixteen concept
by Nick Hull

In a superb presentation in Detroit’s opera house, Cadillac unveiled the spectacular Sixteen concept to rapturous applause.

In form, power and opulence, the 2003 Cadillac Sixteen embodies the timeless qualities of an exceptionally luxurious super-sedan with its sleek, gemstone appearance and new V-16 engine. “The Sixteen is a modern interpretation of everything that made Cadillac the standard of the world and can again,” said Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman for product development and chairman of GM North America. “It’s a reminder of a glorious past as well as a progressive statement”.

As an exterior statement, the Cadillac Sixteen’s proportional composition is bold. The aluminum hood is long, giving the Cadillac Sixteen tremendous dash-to-axle dimension; the wheel arches were designed to accommodate immense 24” polished aluminum wheels. The four-door hardtop incorporates an all-glass roof and is without B-pillars. The crisp-edged lines of the aluminium body panels accentuate the Cadillac Sixteen’s striking appearance. No less than 30 layers of paint were applied to achieve the midnight silver body colour.

“The Cadillac Sixteen proportions were crafted with great attention to detail and homage to classic design,” said Brian Smith, the Cadillac Sixteen’s exterior designer. “We wanted a heroic look with a slightly dropping beltline. The Cadillac Sixteen evokes an era when luxury cars were hand-built.”

One of the centrepieces of the design is the engine compartment, with its sculpted design. With dual panels hinged about a centre spine that runs the length of the expansive hood, it makes an event out of opening the engine bay. The hood panels are power-operated.

“The engine bay really pays tribute to the V-16,” said Wayne Cherry, GM’s vice president of design. “It’s like a setting for a diamond, clean and simple. The under-hood was designed with the same care and attention as the interior” The Cadillac Sixteen’s 32-valve V-16 concept engine displaces 13.6 litres and produces no less than 1000horsepower and 1000 lbs.-ft. of torque.

“The lighting is architectural, enhancing the mood and desirability of the Cadillac Sixteen’s interior space, complementing its shapes and colours,” said Eric Clough, interior designer. “Technique combines with technology for a sophisticated, pampered ambience.”