Netherlands based manufacturer Spyker chose the 2009 Geneva
Motor Show as the venue to unveil the C8 Aileron, a second generation
sports car from the company which has been producing high-end
sports cars since 2000.
Victor R. Muller, Spyker Cars' founder and Chief Executive Officer
said of the car. "The C8 Aileron's design is heavily
inspired by Spyker's aviation heritage, as was the case with
all previous models, but with a clear emphasis on the second-generation
aircraft propulsion: the turbine rather than the propeller that
adorned so many elements of the first-generation cars. Similarly
the "Aileron" name pays tribute to that aviation heritage.
It is the device that makes an aircraft turn and symbolizes
the turning point that the Aileron is for Spyker: the car which
will turn the company towards long-awaited profitability."
The Spyker C8 Aileron's all-aluminium space frame was completely
engineered from scratch with the objective to increase torsional
rigidity and to incorporate an all-new suspension system. This
complete redesign has allowed the designers to increase the
dimensions of the car to improve interior space. The wheelbase
of the C8 Aileron is 150 mm longer than the previous model,
which provides superior comfort and stability at high speeds.
The front track has increased by 155 mm. The total dimensions
of the front and rear track are now 1625 mm and 1645 mm respectively
In order to improve the aerodynamic efficiency of the C8 Aileron,
several changes to the exterior styling were carried out, such
as extending the canopy backwards. Most of the shark-like gills
have been removed, which results in a sleeker, smoother appearance.
The front end is now dominated by a larger grille that provides
additional cooling. Also the rear diffuser was redesigned for
improved performance. An additional spoiler has been positioned
under the diffuser, providing extra downforce to boost the ground
effect created by the diffuser.
The split side windows which featured on the previous model
have been replaced by more practical single-pane side windows
that are fully retractable, improving driving comfort.
Much of the lighting on the Spyker C8 Aileron is composed of
LED units including the taillights and indicators. The headlights
also feature LED strips which act as daytime running lights.
Powering the Spyker C8 Aileron is an Audi-sourced 4.2 litre
V8 engine which provides 400 horsepower. Two transmission choices
are available, a 6-speed Getrag manual, and a 6 speed ZF automatic
which comes as standard with paddle shifters mounted behind
the steering wheel. The 0-60 time is a very respectable 4.5
seconds while the top speed is 187 mph.
Inside the same exquisite level of trim and engineering is carried
over from the previous Spyker models, although the design has
been significantly altered. The interior is made of the highest
quality leather, from the Litano range of the Dutch Royal Tannery
Hulshof. The leather interior is available in 14 standard colours,
but any other colour can be specially ordered.
The dashboard of the C8 Aileron was completely redesigned to
suit the new Spyker identity and to improve ergonomics and functionality.
Air vents are designed in turbine style and the performance
and distribution of the air conditioning was improved significantly.
A multifunctional LCD display is integrated between the speedometer
and the odometer. The middle console accommodates the standard
Kharma sound system. Chronoswiss dials and switches are available
as an option.
Similar and related vehicles:
Spyker C12 Zagato
Spyker C12 LaTurbie
Spyker C8 Laviolette
Spyker C8 Spyder
Spyker C8 Double 12S
Spyker C8 Spyder GT2R
Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85
Source: Spyker
|
