Donkervoort has been building a range of cars loosely based on the Lotus Seven chassis for the past three decades, starting with the Ford-powered S7 back in 1978 and culminating with the new Audi-powered D8 GT. The coupe was first displayed as a concept at last year’s Geneva Motor Show and officially entered production yesterday at a plant in the Netherlands.

The new D8 GT is based on the open-top RS model but features a new hard-top roof and wing doors. Only the front end of the frame remained unchanged with respect to that of the open D8.

The suspension has also been modified, causing the wheelbase to stretch 8cm, and the brakes have been given an upgrade as well. Extensive use of carbon-fiber was employed to keep the car’s kerb weight at just 680kg

Power comes from an Audi-sourced 1.8L four-cylinder engine developing between 180 and 270hp. The first cars are expected to be delivered in August with prices starting at 90,000 euros.

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