Donkervoort Debuts its Limited Edition D8 GTO Bilster Berg Edition

2015 Donkervoort D8 GTO Bilster Berg Edition (Credit: © Donkervoort)

The DonkervoortD8 GTO may not be a household name here in the U.S., but it is nothing short of a whole lot of awesomeness in Europe. As one of the more successful cars patterned after the iconic Lotus Seven, the Donkervoort D8 GTO focuses on keeping the weight low and using a small-displacement engine to create ample power in order to deliver supercar-like quickness and agility. With Donkervoort opening a new branch nearby the Bilster Berg circuit, the company decided to take to the track and smash its record for a street-legal car. With the record in hand, the automaker created a special, limited-edition version of the D8 GTO dubbed the Bilster Berg Edition.

The look of the D8 GTO Bilster Berg edition is not much different than the typical D8 GTO, save for a few badges here and there. However, a closer inspection will uncover a few small changes. The first change that enthusiasts may notice is a reconfigured roll cage that not only increases torsional rigidity, but also enhances safety in case things get a little upside down. The other noticeable differences on the outside is the set of semi-slick tires from Hankook, which were specially developed for this model and will be produced in limited numbers, and the redesigned nose that is darker and made from carbon fiber.

Under the skin, the chassis gets some upgrades, as does the suspension system. Donkervoort is not too open about what changes took place within the chassis and suspension, but it does mention that there is a new roll bar in the rear and revised dampers.

2015 Donkervoort D8 GTO Bilster Berg Edition (Credit: © Donkervoort)

Under the hood is the typical Audi, 2.5-liter, TFSI engine, but Donkervoort is unclear on what changes were made to the powerplant. It does mention that the engine boasts improved throttle response. In the D8 GTO Performance guise — the model that the Bilster Berg Edition is based upon — this engine puts down 380 horsepower and 450 Nm (332 pound-feet) of torque with a lightweight flywheel and a racing clutch aiding in power transfer.  This drivetrain combined with the 685-kg (1,510-pound) curb weight — 10 kg (22 pounds) less than the Performance model — results in a 2.8-second run to 100 km/h (62 mph) and a top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph).

Inside the cabin, the changes are minor but noticeable, as the Bilster Berg Edition gains a data-loggins display with an LCD and GPS.

2015 Donkervoort D8 GTO Bilster Berg Edition (Credit: © Donkervoort )

As an added option, buyers can opt for various carbon-fiber parts for the cabin and body to help drive down the curb weight. Donkervoort does not specify which components buyers can replace, but it does mention “any visible interior or exterior parts.” Buyers can also take lightening to an extreme by opting for ultra-light carpeting, carbon-fiber seats and lightweight leather.

If you would like to own one of these fine cars, you had better acts fast and carry a thick wallet, as Donkervoort is limiting production to only 14 units and each one will run €194,000 ($232,036) including 21% VAT.