GENEVA — Spyker Cars introduced its prototype C8 Aileron sports car last year and has fine-tuned the vehicle up to production trim just in time for the 2009 Geneva Auto Show.
Under the hood is an Audi 4.2-liter V8 with 400 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, allowing for a 4.5-second 0-60-mph time and a top speed of 187 mph. The engine can be mated to either a six-speed Getrag manual or a ZF automatic transmission. AP Racing supplies the brakes, and a front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension system made of mostly forged aluminum is standard on the Aileron.
The vehicle is much longer and wider than the first-generation Spyker cars — its wheelbase is just under 6 inches longer, and its track is about 6 inches wider. It also has scissors doors, a small rooftop air intake, a large front grille and a rear diffuser. Optional 19-inch Rotorblade wheels reminiscent of a plane's propeller finish off the look of the Dutch sports car.
The interior gets a full-leather treatment by Dutch Royal Tanneries Hulshof, and a turned aluminum dashboard with Chronoswiss dials is an option. A Kharma sound system, air-conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity and GPS navigation will keep the ride comfortable.
Sales should begin just after production kicks off this upcoming May, with pricing starting at $238,500 for the manual and $246,000 for the automatic variant. The drop-top version is set to be launched at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in August.
Inside Line says: Spyker shows it is a supercar contender with its C8 Aileron. — Mike Lysaght, Correspondent
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