SPECS
Engine 4.2-litre V8, 40 valve, mid-mounted
Max Power 400 hp
Max Torque 354 lb-ft
Top speed 187 mph
0-100 Kph 4.5 sec
Coupe $214,990, Summer 2011
Spyder TBA, Fall 2011
Spyker C8 Aileron
By Annabelle Frankl
If you’re in the market for a two-seater, go-fast machine that does 0-60 mph in under five seconds, is gorgeous to behold, and will turn heads in a “What was that?” sort of way, why choose the obvious?
Spyker Cars’ C8 Aileron Coupe and Spyder are hand-built beauties characterized by a distinctive design that most definitely sets them apart from the sports car pack. A lightweight all-aluminum body and space frame keep the car incredibly light, and the 400hp 4.2L V8 engine is sourced from Audi (read: reliable) and makes 354lb-ft of torque. See 0-100 kph pass in a mere 4.5 seconds en route to a top speed of 187mph. Row through the cogs with a Getrag 6-speed, driving the rear wheels via a limited slip diff or, for the first time, opt for a ZF 6-speed automatic. An all-new suspension system, designed and supplied by Lotus, interacts beautifully with terra firma for a confidence-inspiring drive that won’t send you to the chiropractor after every bump.
The company’s aviation heritage is present in many of its design cues and the Aileron emphasizes turbine propulsion (as opposed to propeller in previous models) with details like the turbine-engine-shaped air scoops on the car. Its interior is a breathtaking mix of brushed aluminum and buttery-soft leather, all meant to evoke the feeling of being in a cockpit, with analogue dials and toggle switches. A metal shifter and exposed linkage add to the cabin’s exotic appeal.
According to reports, the soft-top Spyder will be limited to a very exclusive 99 units and, if rumors are true, will be usurping German power for good old American muscle in the form of the Corvette ZR1’s 6.2L supercharged LS9. Given Spyker’s recent acquisition of Saab from GM, it could happen. 638hp in a limited edition, hand-built Dutch sports car…you said you were looking for something special, right?
