Spyker C8 Aileron news - Come on, Aileron - 2008

This beauty has slipped under the radar somewhat, upstaged by a recent spate of supercar howlers. But what we've got here is the C8 Aileron, the latest creation from the Dutch dudes at Spyker.

A longer wheelbase version of the Laviolette, the Aileron gets Spyker's signature architecture (mid-engine/aluminium panels and space frame) but an extra 10cm on the wheelbase. The front track is wider and the torsional rigidity up by 40%.

Interestingly, Spyker has reduced the polished aluminium content on the Aileron, citing a 'trend Spyker sees in general: more sober designs, less exuberant'. However, Spyker's delicious Aeroblade wheels remain, as does a diamond-pattern leather and turned aluminum interior.

Power comes from Audi's 400bhp 4163cc V8, delivering 187mph and 0-60mph in just under 4.5 seconds.

Interestingly, 80% of all Spykers have been ordered without sound systems. Why? 'The basic reasoning being that the engine provided all the sound one could possibly wish for,' says Spyker. However, the Aileron gets a Kharma sound system, with GPS, Bluetooth, CD player and an iPod jack.

It's a beguiling car. A plucky, pretty, design-homogenous effort from the Dutch. They're racing what they call a 'Squadron' at Le Mans this year, too; they won't win, but the spirit of independence lives on at Spyker like no other team at the 24 hour classic.