05 Mar 08
Dutch sports car-maker Spyker is revealing a long-wheelbase version of its C8 Laviolette coupe.
The C8 Aileron keeps the same mid-engined layout and aluminium spaceframe structure, but its wheelbase has been extended by 10cm to give better cabinspace and its track widened for more secure handling. It has cleaner, smoother panels, with the polished-aluminium details deleted: Spyker cites a trend for 'more sober designs' and 'reducing the "bling" element considerably'. Instead, there are polished alloy details, which can be colour-coded with the interior. The 'propellor' styling motif has been replaced by a turbine symbol, in a nod to Spyker's aeronautical heritage, which appears on the wheel hubs.
The roof canopy has been extended rearwards, giving improved headroom, and the radiator re-angled; the LED headlights with now-standard xenon main-beams are more streamlined. There are longer doors, and single-pane glass side windows, offering better sound-proofing and insulation.
Power comes from the Audi-sourced 4.2-litre V8 (400bhp) with the choice of six-speed manual or new six-speed automatic transmission. The suspension is all-new, and the AP Racing brakes come with the option of carbon-ceramic discs.
Further new kit includes an iPod-compatible Kharma sound system, and buyers can opt for Chronoswiss dials and choose from 14 different colours for the leather upholstery and 14 paint colours. Bespoke finishes are also available.
Spyker has announced that it will compete in the 2008 and 2009 Le Mans Series and Le Mans 24 Hours, using the new Laviolette GT2R. Spyker Squadron has secured sponsorship for these events. Drivers for the team are Alexei Vasiley, Ralf Kelleners and Peter Dumbreck in one car, and Andrea Cheisa, Benjamin Leuenberger and Phillipe Camandona in another. The team has been testing in Estoril and Le Castellet, and will compete in the 2000km de Catalunya in Barcelona later this month. The sale of Spyker's F1 team has not yet been finalised, however.
