A 2011 Spyker Aileron was recently on display in Clearwater, Florida during a Spyker of Tampa Bay event at the Dirty Martini Club. Photos © Tom LaPointe
When it comes to celebrities and their cars, the more unique and exclusive they are, the more they are attracted. Sure, many are happy tooling around in near anonymity in their SUVs, but when they want to be noticed, the forthcoming 2011 Spyker C8 Aileron will be just the ticket. Pittsburgh Steeler quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, and singers Missi Elliot and Busta Rhymes are known to drive current models, and the Aileron is sure to attract more.
Though not exactly a speed demon, the Aileron is definitely poised to take its place as one of the most beautiful exotic cars ever produced. The company describes its buyers picking the Aileron as an ‘and’ car, rather than an ‘or’ car – meaning that they will have a Ferrari, Bentley, or Lamborghini AND the Aileron. While the others easily surpass the Aileron in performance, the Spyker is tops when it comes to design, beauty, craftsmanship, and exclusivity.
The latest Spyker model continues the airplane design motif, now with a focus on turbine jet engines, rather than the propeller queues on the smaller C8 Spyder and Laviolette coupe. It also continues its absolutely stunning interior, complete with diamond-tufted hides, aviation-style switchgear and exposed stainless steel shift linkage.
It has 400 horsepower on tap from an Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V8 that drives the rear wheels through a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission. I was able to drive a pre-production model thanks to Spyker of Tampa Bay and their Manager, Chris Warren. The ride and handling are definitely in the grand-touring category, which is exactly what Spyker is looking for. While my drive in the million-dollar prototype was only on city streets, the car seemed very responsive and absorbed bumps and pavement undulations with confidence.
It’s not quite as responsive as a Ferrari 599 GTB, but more spry through the twisties than the much-heavier Bentley Continental GT.
Pricing is likely $225k and up, and annual Aileron production could be in the 100 to 200 range, so the car will always have exclusivity. And the novelty of the stunning design will ensure it is the center of attention in any valet line. First deliveries are targeted for summer 2010, so call us now for help getting to the top of the list.
Video of Spyker models on the track at Miller Motorsports Park
Comments
You and I both feel the same way about this car... it looks like lust personified.
Shared your link on facebook and on twitter @cafecars.
Happy Thanksgiving, Tom! All our best to you and the family.
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