Spyker Unveils The C8 Preliator

Spyker C8 Preliator (Credit: Spyker)

Spyker’s back and it wants everyone to know it. What better way to make that obvious than to roll into Geneva with a car that wows. That’s exactly what the C8 Preliator is all about.

» Related: Spyker Starts Playing With Electricity

The C8 Preliator looks an awful lot like the B6 Venator, and that’s a good thing. It also packs the 4.2-liter V-8 that Spyker’s been relying on for some time. That might be a disappointment for some, because the rumor was the company was going to reveal an EV in Geneva.

Spyker C8 Preliator (Credit: Spyker)

The Dutch boutique automaker did slap a supercharger on the V-8, bringing top output to 518 bhp. It’s also into saving the manuals, mating the engine to a six-speed Getrag manual, with the linkage exposed for quirky fun. For those who aren’t into that sort of thing, Spyker says a six-speed auto with flappy paddles will be available.

Lest you think the C8 Preliator is just a pretty face, the car can dash from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Top speed is impressive at 201 mph.

Spyker C8 Preliator grille (Credit: Spyker)

Under the skin, the entire chassis is made of aluminum. Spyker turned to Lotus for the suspension, which means the car likely can rip through turns pretty well.

It wouldn’t be a Spyker without lots of crazy-cool aviation-inspired design cues, like NACA duct air intakes, ailerons, a swooping canopy and optional 12-spoke 19-inch wheels that are made to look like turbine blades. The interior features plenty of throwback gauges and switchgear, plus virtually no plastic. There’s even a HUD with satellite navigation. Soft leather covers large swaths of the cabin, couching the driver and passenger in sumptuous comfort. Spyker will supply bespoke colors and trims, catering to people with specific tastes.

Spyker C8 Preliator interior (Credit: Spyker)

The Spyker motto shows the company’s a scrapper. “Nulla tenacia invia est via” translates to “for the tenacious, no road is impassable.” Even though this time around the rumored EV model didn’t materialize, it’s good to have Spyker and all of its quirky goodness back.