Spyker C8 Aileron: The next generation luxury supercar

All-new, long wheelbase models continue heritage of performance, craftsmanship and exclusivity
The all-new Spyker C8 Aileron marks the next step in Spyker's evolution. Initially unveiled as a concept at the 2009 Geneva International Motor Show, series production is ramping up at a purpose-built facility - operated by world-class specialist coachbuilder, CPP - in Coventry, UK. Customer deliveries began in April and the order book stretches twelve months ahead.

Inspired by the company's aviation heritage, Spyker's second-generation sports car features cues from second-generation aircraft propulsion, highlighting the turbine blade, rather than the propeller which adorned many elements of Spyker's first generation, short wheelbase cars.

With sleek aerodynamics, a long GT wheelbase, luxurious and spacious cabin and worldclass ZF six-speed automatic transmission, the new C8 Aileron broadens the appeal of the Spyker brand while maintaining the marque's exclusivity.

Second-generation design exploits advanced computer aids The design of the hand-crafted Spyker C8 Aileron represents the latest evolution of Spyker's signature styling, which is heavily inspired by the company's aviation heritage. In the firstgeneration cars, the propeller design was consistently applied to many elements of the vehicles. With the design of the new Spyker C8 Aileron, the emphasis is shifted from
propeller propulsion to turbine propulsion. As a result, detailing on the car, such as the bright polished air inlets, are turbine-engine-shaped air scoops.

The C8 Aileron's beautiful lines are complemented by minimal 'shut' lines and an uncompromised design made possible by the use of superformed aluminium body panels. The superforming process heats aluminium to 500 degrees Celsius and then vacuum forms the metal onto an inverted mould over a 30 minute period. Additionally, there are no breaks along the entire path of the door ring seals, guaranteeing maximum integrity against the
elements.

At the front, the style of the C8 Aileron's headlights is particularly eye-catching as they flow seamlessly from the body design. This characteristic styling can be defined as a part of the next generation Spyker identity, first seen on the Spyker C12 Laturbie prototype and
subsequently in the Spyker D8 Peking-to-Paris prototype.

Latest-generation LEDs are used for the front and rear turn indicators and the sidelights within the sharply-styled headlight units.

Styling and functionality are harmonised in several characteristics of the car. The cockpit canopy, for example, is extended rearwards to optimise the aerodynamic performance of the car. Most of the shark-like gills of the C8 Aileron's predecessors have been abandoned, which results in a cleaner, smoother appearance. The front end is characterised by a large grille that has spectacular visual impact and also allows maximum flow of cooling air. The rear diffuser is crucial to the cars stability at speed, with a spoiler placed under the diffuser, providing additional downforce to boost the ground effect forces produced by the under-car airflow and the diffuser.

V8 powertrain and automatic drivetrain

The Spyker C8 Aileron's performance is visceral, vibrant and alive. Power comes from a naturally aspirated Audi 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine. This power unit features a 90-degree angle block, 40 valves (five valves-per-cylinder, three intake and two exhaust), and variable
valve timing.

Highly responsive, the V8 generates 400 ps at 6,800 rpm and an immense wave of torque (480 Nm at just 3,500 rpm), to ensure thrilling drivability.
Strong torque, high power, sleek aerodynamics, modest car weight and an excellent powerto-weight ratio all result in sensational acceleration: 0-to-100 kph in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 300 kph.

As standard, the engine is fitted with a long-life stainless steel exhaust system tuned to put the driver 'truly in touch with their senses'. This system uses noise-dampening reed valves to create a quieter drive below 3,500 rpm. The valves naturally open as engine speed rises
above this figure, allowing the exhaust gases to travel straight out of the tailpipes to improve exhaust flow, performance and depth of sound. An optional 'Sport mode exhaust system' can be fitted, allowing the driver to manually overrule the valves, for a sportier sound throughout the entire engine rev range.

Marking a 'first' for Spyker, the C8 Aileron's engine is mated to an automatic transmission that provides seamless, yet instant, progression through the gears. The highly regarded sixspeed ZF gearbox features a regular torque converter and offers drivers a choice of fully
automatic or clutch-less sequential manual gear shifting using the standard paddle shifts mounted behind the steering wheel.

The transmission selection operation retains Spyker's trademark exposed gear change mechanism that provides a sense of occasion and proves that aesthetics and function go hand-in-hand.

The aluminium paddle shift controls are substantive and easy to reach. They do not rotate with the steering wheel, allowing the driver to easily identify the up-shift and down-shift paddles, regardless of the steering wheel's angle.

In line with Spyker's philosophy of delivering an undiluted sportscar driving experience, the drivetrain is not equipped with a limited-slip differential or any other mechanical or electronic aids.

Spyker C8 Aileron top detail
Spyker C8 Aileron sideSpyker C8 Aileron doors
Spyker C8 Aileron frontSpyker C8 Aileron back
Spyker C8 Aileron topSpyker C8 Aileron interior

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