Apr 2001
In this issue:
Spyker C8 Spyder
Dutch sports car proves to be the real star of new movie, War
Issue: Oct, 2007
In an early scene in the new martial arts flick, War, the hired assassin played by Jet Li cruises through some suitably mean streets in a stunning, if slightly odd-looking silver convertible. In fact, it’s probably the best special effect in the entire movie. And there’s not a computer graphic in sight – the car really does exist.
It is the Dutch-built Spyker C8 Spyder, a mid-engined $200,000 sports car from the same stable as the newly Arab-owned Etihad Aldar Spyker F1 team. Hand-built in aluminium, it is one of the most innovatively designed cars currently on the road, with retro-styled rear, flat 1970s-style engine hood and polished twin air ducts demonstrating that individualism isn’t that something that died with the DeLorean.
Okay, so it does go a little Aston Martin at the front, and a little Corvette with the extreme air-sucking vent in the bonnet, but this proves that the Dutch know more about automotive industry than big trucks called DAF. Even if the F1 team is pitiful. Of course, being Dutch, this model is actually officially known as the Shpyker Shee 8 Shpyder, just in case you get confused the next time you’re in Amsterdam. Sorry, Amshterdam.
Engine
The car is powered by a naturally-aspirated, 4.1-litre Audi V8 engine, with four overhead camshafts and an incredible five valves per cylinder.
Transmission
The nifty, chrome-rimmed rear-wheels are powered through a manual six-speed gearbox with no electronic intervention.
Suspension
Using the F1 technology – and considering the C8 also boasts a Le Mans version – the suspension is fully independent and built from stainless steel. Koni provide the shocks.
Performance
This little belter propelled Jet Li towards a flat-out 300kmh, and got him to 100kmh in around 4.5 seconds. Which is quicker than a roundhouse to the Adam’s apple, we’re told.
Design
The most notable features, other than the profusion of grills and vents, are the tilting hinged doors. The coupe version also has a jagged roof line slicing into the engine hood.
Accessories
The interior is fitted out with Connolly leather º which is a good thing, apparently – and there are two luggage compartments in front and rear. They even throw in two Connolly suitcases.
