2017 SPYKER C8 Preliator – Sharp 3rd-Gen Exotic is Coming to America!



The world’s most curious supercar made a glittery debut in Geneva and is now on the way to the New York auto show!

This return to the USA for Spyker is a pretty big deal.  As we all know, this market can be make-or-break for low-volume manufacturers.  Spyker’s new Coventry factory puts in in great company: Morgan, Aston Martin, McLaren and Jaguar are fairly closeby. Hopefully this localization helps Spyker navigate its way back onto US roads as well as our auto shows!

On to the main event: the new PRELIATOR!2017 SPYKER C8 Preliator 5 2017 SPYKER C8 Preliator 4

This means warrior in Latin and marks the third generation of the Spyker supercar.  And the most radical overhaul yet!

New carbon-fiber bodywork all around is instantly Spyker, yet also tastefully updated for 2017.  Previous round bulging intakes all around are replaced by slimline NACA ducts.  Everywhere!  The roof snorkel, twin side intakes, brake vents front and rear, plus an elaborate new hood all work the sharp NACA ductwork design element onto the familiar face.

We’re curious why Spyker chose to take such a conservative approach to their redesign.  If all the panels are new… why not go a bit wilder?  Design leads supercar sales more than performance — and a great look can transform anyone’s fortune.

Just look at the gorgeous new Apollo Arrow!  Shares much of its mechanicals with the Gumpert Apollo, but is about 1000X more appealing with its new tracksuit.

Whatever the reason, Spyker is keeping its deliberately-functional central grille, with its less-than-artful rounded edges.  That is part of the aesthetic, you see.  Harking back to a grander period of time… when exotic cars’ looks were secondary to its performance.  One look in the intricate, intensely luxurious cabin makes this whole steam-punk style make sense.

No more confusing this with a Boxster though, that is for sure.  The Preliator has very glamorous new LEDs all around.  A slash of light in the lower flanks forms a vertical edge to the very-rounded nose design.  Bright and pure LEDs line the lower part of the crescent headlamps this year too.  It looks very expensive, if not instantly beautiful or evocative. *(The lower LEDs are dot units. Ick)2017 SPYKER C8 Preliator Interior 1 2017 SPYKER C8 Preliator Interior 9

Around back, things improve even more.  New milled-alloy taillamps are cold, hard and dark metal when off.  But when lit?  Stunning afterburners!  A cliche if popular design choice, and certainly far better than any Spyker lighting tech until now.

And that’s not all!  Hit the brakes and the C8 Preliator’s new full-width LED lightbar singes the eyeballs.  It is bright, beautiful and quite exotic.  The red LEDs in their smooth, bubble-like arc over the rear end emphasize the dramatic Spyker look very, very well from the back.c8 preliator LEDs 2017 SPYKER C8 Preliator Debut 9

But who would buy this car over a F12 or 675LT?  A very select few.  Just 50 will be made in total.

Pricing for the C8 comes in at 330k Euros, or about $380k in US dollars.  Performance is improved: the 525HP 4.2-liter, supercharged V8 engine now shoots this cruise missile up to 62-mph in just 3.7-seconds.

Best news of all?  The C8 Preliator is offered in a stickshift or a ZF automatic transaxle.  Both are rear-mounted for balance in the aluminum spaceframe chassis.

 

2017 SPYKER C8 Preliator

WORLD DEBUT FOR THE SPYKER C8 PRELIATOR

Blaricum, the Netherlands, 1 March 2016 – Spyker, creator of meticulously hand-built sports cars since 2000, today proudly unveils its  third-generation sports car: the Spyker C8 Preliator.

Victor R. Muller, Spyker’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer said on the occasion of the unveiling: “The greatest man in our industry, Enzo Ferrari, once said: ‘What’s behind you, doesn’t matter’. What does matter is the fact that we have returned to Geneva today to unveil the worthy successor to the Spyker C8 Aileron, launched right here in 2009, of which the last five units are being assembled in our new production facilities in Coventry, the United Kingdom.“

The Spyker C8 Preliator’s design represents the ultimate translation of our aviation heritage to a “road jet”, a plane without wings, reflected among others in the Head-Up Display, fitted as standard to every car. It is the epitome of our unrivaled craftsmanship. By mounting a supercharger to the Audi V8 engine we have improved the performance of the Spyker C8 Preliator significantly as compared to its predecessor and its exclusivity is warranted since we will produce a mere 50 units.

The “Preliator” name, which means “fighter” or “warrior” in latin, pays tribute to that aviation heritage: “Fighters” are warplanes as made by Spyker between 1914 and 1918. But even more so, “Preliator” symbolises the uphill battles Spyker faced and won in the past couple of years.

The Spyker C8 Preliator is made for discerning owners who appreciate the attention to detail and bespoke features we have offered them for over a decade and a half now. Our dedicated crew will assemble the first cars in Coventry, UK, together with CPP Metalcraft, our very first partner since we started Spyker back in 2000, as of the last quarter of this year. 

When I designed the Spyker C8 Preliator I wanted it to ooze the sheer tenacity and determination with which we created a new dawn for our company and by launching it here today we pay homage to the latin axiom which has adorned the Spyker propellor logo since 1914 “Nulla tenacia invia est via” – for the tenacious no road is impassable”.

 

 

THE SPYKER C8 PRELIATOR 

Design

The Spyker C8 Preliator’s contemporary design is even more heavily inspired by Spyker’s aviation heritage than any of our previous models with a clear emphasis on the typical aircraft air intakes, the so-called NACA ducts, and represents the latest evolution of Spyker’s signature architecture.

In the first-generation cars, the propeller design was consistently applied to many elements of the cars. The second generation cars showed a transition to turbine engine inspired design. Within the design of the new third generation cars, the Spyker C8 Preliator, the emphasis has shifted to submerged air intakes, the so-called NACA ducts, as used in the aviation industry.

In order to enhance the aerodynamic performance of the car, several changes in styling were made so as to reduce drag such as the replacement of the air scoop on the canopy by a NACA duct. Small ailerons were added to the front splitter and side skirts to redirect the airflow optimally. The shark-like gills have been abandoned, which results in a cleaner, smoother appearance. The glass canopy has a reflective gold coating applied to it as used in jet fighters. The trademark V-shaped grille with honeycomb mesh is now characterised by the central pillar first seen on the Spyker B6 Venator concept car shown here in 2013. Also the rear diffuser was redesigned for improved functionality. Small winglets mounted on the front splitter and side skirts optimize the airflow.

The CNC-machined stainless steel  rear lights are made of LEDs (light-emitting diodes) emulating fighter jet afterburners. LED lights were also used for the indicators and the sidelights in the headlight units.The brake light has been sculpted into the rear panel so as to ensure smooth flowing design lines. Elegantly aggressive 19” Turbofan™ wheels are shown in a mirror polish finish.     

The Spyker C8 Preliator is available in 16 standard colours, but customers may choose any colour they wish as an option, as well as the sporty Spyker Squadron GT2 colour scheme. The C8 Preliator shown here has a new colour called Satin Jet Grey. Spyker will meet any demand of its discerning owners to create an absolutely bespoke car of which he or she will never find another one. 

 

All-Aluminium Space Frame Chassis


The Spyker C8 Preliator’s all-aluminium space frame composed of extrusions and folded sheet aluminium and extruded aluminium side-impact bars and integral rollover bars was redesigned with the objective to further increase torsional rigidity and to incorporate the Lotus supplied suspension system. These characteristics provide an ideal foundation for enhanced vehicle dynamics. 

Moreover, the C8 Preliator’s dimensions have been optimised, the car is longer than its predecessor, providing for more driving comfort and stability at high speeds.  

Spyker has put tremendous efforts in the space frame performance of the C8 Preliator, specifically the structure’s efficiency. The utilisation of modern finite element and numerical optimization methods has allowed Spyker’s engineers to arrive at an exceptionally stiff structure of 24.000Nm/degree, a 10% improvement over the previous model. Rigid-node and load-path technology has been employed in order to ensure that the minimum amount of aluminium is used to achieve this performance, thus reducing the overall weight of the vehicle. The dynamic stiffness characteristics of the structure have been carefully tuned in order to minimize unwanted cabin noises and vibrations, which may otherwise detract from the driving experience. These technologies and measures have allowed Spyker to arrive at the most efficient chassis in its history.

The Spyker C8 Preliator will use the Audi 4.2 litre V8 engine Spyker has used since its inception but now boasting 525 bhp as a result of a supercharger and will be available with two transmission alternatives. The Spyker C8 Preliator will be fitted as standard with a 6speed Getrag manual gearbox, with ratios perfectly matched to the V8 supercharged engine. A ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox, which comes standard with paddle shifts behind the steering wheel to progress smoothly through the ratios is an option. Both transmissions retain Spyker’s trademark exposed gear change mechanism.  

Interior


The Spyker C8 Preliator has more interior space, which results in a higher comfort level and improved ergonomics. The interior, with its typical Spyker attention to detail, is made of the highest quality leather available in the market. The leather interior is available in 14 standard colours, but any other colour – if desired by the customer – can be ordered as an option. The car on display has a Saddle interior with white honeycomb stitching (matching the mesh in the grille) and an ivory leather headlining. 

The dashboard was redesigned to suit the new exterior design and to improve ergonomics and functionality. Air vents are designed in turbine style and the performance and distribution of the air conditioning was improved significantly. A multifunctional Head-Up Display is integrated and placed atop the dash board. Machined Chronoswiss dials and switches are available as an option. 

In-Car Entertainment


With larger numbers of cars going into the market and the increased popularity of the Apple iPhone and similar products, the demand for a standard sound system fitted by the factory increased. As a result, every Spyker C8 Preliator will be equipped as standard with a highend sound system, incorporating a digital radio, Bluetooth interface and Apple iPhone connectivity. The navigation system is operated from the Head-Up Display.

Suspension & Wheels


The C8 Preliator is fitted with a Lotus front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension system. This suspension system includes a new kinematic layout of the front and rear suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, mono-tube dampers, coil over damper steel springs, anti-dive and anti- squat setup for improved handling properties. The suspension components are made of forged aluminium where possible, to keep the vehicle’s unsprung weight as low as possible. Shock absorbers are placed vertically within the wishbones.  

The Preliator has newly-designed 19-inch alloy Turbofan™ wheels as standard. These wheels are inspired by the turbine blades of a jet engine, which hints at Spyker’s aviation heritage. The Michelin 235/35 size tyres at the front and up to 295/30 at the rear provide the necessary road holding.  

Brakes


Brakes are supplied by AP Racing, a partner from day one. Black brake calipers with Spyker script are standard. Colour-coded calipers with Spyker script can be ordered as an option. The car on display has Satin Gold calipers which match the air box. Carbon ceramic brakes will be available as an option.

 

 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Body Style

Two-seat, two-door body made in carbon fibre. Hood and rear deck lid in aluminium. Xenon headlights with LED sidelights and indicators. LED taillights. NACA ducts provide cooling and air intake. Small winglets on the front splitter and side skirts redirect the air flow along the car. Chassis number plaque on sill (1 of 50). 

 

Engine 

Type                        90 degree V8 with VVT and compressor
Capacity                 4.2-litre, 4172 cc 
Bore & Stroke  84.5 x 93.0 mm 
Compression ratio  11.0:1 
Max power           525 ps (386 Kw) @ 6800 rpm 
Max torque          600Nm (443 lb ft) @ 3500 rpm 
Max revolutions  7200 rpm 
Valves                     40 (5-per-cylinder) 
Fuel system   Multi-point fuel injection 
Exhaust system  Stainless steel with active bypass valves 

 

Drivetrain & Transmission

Rear-wheel drive with a Drexler limited slip differential. 

Standard

Transmission   Optional  Rear-mounted Getrag 6-speed manual gearbox
Transmission   Rear-mounted ZF Tiptronic 6-speed automatic
Type                        Torque converter with fully auto and sport/semi-auto modes 
Gear shift              Steering wheel-mounted paddle shift controls

 

Suspension 

Fully independent system supplied by Lotus Cars.

Front   Forged independent aluminium double wishbone suspension system,  with new kinematic layout, stabilizer bars, mono-tube dampers, coil  over damper steel springs and anti-dive and anti squat setup for  improved handling properties. 
Rear 

 

Forged independent aluminium double wishbone suspension system,  with new kinematic layout, stabilizer bars, mono-tube dampers, coil  over damper steel springs and anti-dive and anti squat setup for  improved handling properties. 
   

Steering 

Type                      Servotronic speed-sensitive hydraulic power assisted rack & pinion Gearing                        3.0 turns of steering wheel lock-to-lock 

 

Brakes 

Brake calipers available in various colors with Spyker logo. 

Front   350 mm diameter vented and cross-drilled steel discs with four-piston

AP Racing brake calipers and high performance pads

Rear   332 mm diameter vented and cross-drilled steel discs with four-piston

AP Racing brake calipers and high performance pads

Balance  Default setting 60/40% front/rear balance 
Safety Aids 

 

Wheels 

Standard 

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
Front   8.5J x 19 in Bright Silver in alloy wheels 
Rear  

Optional* 

10.0J x 19 in Bright Silver in alloy wheels 
Front   Turbofan™ directional 24-spoke 8.5J x 19 in forged alloy wheels 
Rear   Turbofan™ directional 24-spoke 10.0J x 19 in forged alloy wheels 

*available in choice of 4 finishes 

 

Tyres 

(For fitment to both Standard and Optional wheels) 

Front   235 / 35 ZR19 
Rear  

 

Dimensions 

295 / 30 ZR19
Length  4628 mm  182.2 in 
Width   1953 mm  76.9 in (excluding mirrors) 
Height   1202 mm  47.3 in 
Wheelbase  2725 mm  107.3 in 
Front track  1625 mm  64.0 in 
Rear track 

 

1645 mm  64.8 in 
   

Weights & Capacities 

Kerb weight         1390 kg                   3065 lbs 
Fuel tank               57 litres                   15 gallons (US) 
Luggage capacity 

 

Performance

120 litres                 32 gallons (US)
Acceleration   0-100 kph (62 mph) – 3.7 seconds 
Max speed           322 kph (201 mph)  

Interior  

Full-leather interior. Brushed aluminium dashboard. Turned aluminium dashboard and Chronoswiss dials are optional. Air conditioning. Driver and passenger airbags with passenger airbag deactivation switch. 

Additionally, complete bespoke and unique finishes are available for the discerning connoisseur. Customers may also order a 5-piece Louis Vuitton luggage set exclusively made for Spyker. 

 

High-end sound system incorporating a digital radio, Bluetooth interface, iPhone connectivity. Twin screen Head-Up Display including  navigation system. 

 

Price 

Production limited to 50 units. 

European retail price excl. taxes €324,900.- (with manual gearbox, excluding options and taxes)
 €330,990.- (with automatic gearbox, excluding options and taxes)  

 

www.spykercars.com 

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