Live from Pebble Beach: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder Preview

By Viknesh Vijayenthiran

Viknesh Vijayenthiran

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Vik is an Editor at High Gear Media and contributor for a number of sites within the High Gear Media network. He was a co-founder of Motor Authority... More

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Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder

The C8 Aileron Spyder is essentially a long-wheelbase version of the existing C8 Spyder and like its smaller sibling it features a semi-automatic canvas roof. The design’s operation is electric/hydraulic and is secured by one central latch operated manually. Also, it comes with a glass rear window and is available in eight colors.

Once folded, the roof 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 (matching the car's interior) and featuring the company's motto "Nulla Tenaci Invia Est Via" (For the tenacious, no road is impassable).

Other special elements include a luggage rack, machined from solid billets of aluminum and mounted behind the roll hoops. The total dimensions of the front and rear track are 1,625 mm and 1,645 mm respectively, while the kerb weight comes in at 3,142 pounds.

Power comes from the same Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V-8 as the hardtop, rated at about 400 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Shifting duties are taken care of with a either a Getrag manual or ZF auto gearbox, both with six speeds, and drive sent to the rear wheels. The Aileron delivers a top speed of 187 mph and accelerates from standstill to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds.

Under the pretty sheet metal is a lightweight aluminum mid-engine chassis with independent double-wishbone suspension both front and rear. Stopping power is supplied by respected brake company AP Racing and these are fitted with black calipers with the Spyker logo. Carbon ceramic brakes will be available as an option.

Inside, the C8 Aileron Spyder gets a Kharma sound system, GPS navigation, and all the standard modern electronics connectivity - Bluetooth, MP3, etc. The trademark engine turned aluminum dash will be present, plus 19in Aeroblade wheels and a quilted leather cockpit.

Pricing should be revealed closer to the car’s launch next year though we know it will still come with an unlimited 3-year manufacturer's warranty.