2011 Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder debuts
Spyker Cars, manufacturer of handcrafted sports cars since 2000, has introduced the first prototype of the Spyder version of its all-new second-generation sports car, the Spyker C8 Aileron. The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder was unveiled at the 59th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on Sunday.
Spyker Cars announced the development of a convertible C8 Aileron Spyder in March at the Geneva Auto Show, during the introduction of the production version of the Spyker C8 Aileron. The car presented today is the first prototype for the open-top model, scheduled to go into production in the first half of 2010.
The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder sports a high-quality, semi-automatic canvas soft-top. The roof’s operation is electric/hydraulic, secured by one central latch operated manually. Once folded, the soft-top is totally enclosed within the body of the car, allowing for an undisturbed profile. The roof retracts under an aluminum tonneau, with two buttresses upholstered in quilted Hulshof leather.
The Aileron Spyder features a luggage rack, CNC-machined from solid billets of aluminum, mounted immediately behind the roll hoops, on which a wing-shaped aluminum case is strapped. The case is trimmed in the same quilted leather as the interior and buttresses.
The Spyker C8 Aileron is an advanced mid-engine, two-seat sports car, featuring a longer wheelbase than Spyker’s existing sports cars, the C8 Laviolette and convertible C8 Spyder.
The Aileron is characterized by a distinctive design, lightweight all-aluminum body construction and an uncompromising engineering package. The Spyker C8 Aileron is handcrafted,using only the finest bespoke materials to create a unique automotive statement.
The Aileron features an all-aluminium 4.2L Audi V8 engine producing 400 bhp and generating 354 lb-ft of torque at 3400 rpm. The engine is paired to a manual six-speed gearbox, driving the rear wheels via a limited slip differential. For the first time, Spyker is offering an optional automatic transmission on the C8 Aileron. The Aileron delivers a top speed of 187 mph and accelerates from standstill to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds.
Optional features include a turned aluminum dashboard fascia, elegant 19-inch directional rotor wheels, branded Rotorblade, quilted leather detailing for the cockpit and Chronoswiss dashboard instruments. Additionally, complete custom and unique finishes are available for the experienced connoisseur. Customers may also order a 5-piece Louis Vuitton luggage set exclusively made for Spyker.
The Spyker C8 Aileron’s all-aluminium space frame was completely redesigned with the objective to increase torsional rigidity and to incorporate an all-new suspension system designed and supplied by Lotus. These characteristics provide an ideal foundation for enhanced vehicle dynamics.
Moreover, the C8 Aileron’s dimensions have been optimised for more interior space and to accommodate the optional automatic gearbox. Compared to the short wheelbase of the first-generation cars – the Spyker C8 Laviolette and C8 Spyder – the wheelbase of the C8 Aileron is 150 mm longer, providing more driving comfort and stability at high speeds. Its front track has increased by 6.1 inches. The total dimensions of the front and rear track are now 63.98 inches and 64.76 inches respectively, which improves road handling significantly.
In order to enhance the aerodynamic performance of the car, several changes in styling were made. Most of the shark-like gills have been abandoned, which results in a cleaner, smoother appearance. The front end is now characterized by a larger grille that allows additional cooling. Also the rear diffuser was redesigned for improved functionality. An extra spoiler has been placed under the diffuser, providing additional down force to boost the ground effect produced by the diffuser.
The C8 Aileron is fitted with a brand new front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension system developed by Lotus. The new suspension system includes a new kinematic layout of the front and rear suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, mono-tube dampers, coil over damper steel springs, anti-dive and anti-squat setup for improved handling properties. The suspension components are made of forged aluminium where possible, to keep the vehicle’s unsprung weight as low as possible. Shock absorbers are placed vertically within the wishbones.
The 235/35 size tires in front and up to 295/30 at the rear provide exceptional handling. The C8 Aileron’s brakes are supplied by AP Racing. Black brake calipers with Spyker script are standard. Color-coded calipers with Spyker script can be ordered as an option. Carbon ceramic brakes will be available as an option soon.
The Spyker C8 Aileron will come with an unlimited 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.