The Spyker C8 Preliator 4.2 V8 40V (525 Hp) Tiptronic is a high-performance sports car produced by the Dutch manufacturer Spyker Cars. Introduced in 2016, the Preliator represented a significant evolution of the C8 series, blending handcrafted luxury with potent performance. It occupied the top echelon of Spyker’s model range, positioned as a direct competitor to established marques like Porsche and Ferrari in the exotic sports car segment. The “Preliator” name, meaning “predator” in Latin, reflects the car’s aggressive styling and dynamic capabilities. It is built upon a steel space frame chassis and features a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the C8 Preliator 4.2 V8 Tiptronic lies a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine, internally designated as the 4.2 V8 40V. This engine is sourced from Audi, but extensively modified by Spyker to meet their performance and aesthetic standards. The engine boasts a displacement of 4172 cm³ (254.59 cubic inches) and produces a maximum power output of 525 horsepower at 6800 rpm. Torque figures peak at 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) at 3500 rpm. The engine features a compression ratio of 11:1 and utilizes multi-port fuel injection. A supercharger and intercooler are integrated into the intake system to enhance power delivery and efficiency.
The engine employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with five valves per cylinder (40 valves total). This configuration optimizes gas flow and contributes to the engine’s high-revving nature. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis, contributing to the car’s balanced weight distribution. The power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission with a Tiptronic manual shift mode, allowing the driver to select gears manually for greater control.
Transmission Details
The Tiptronic transmission is a sophisticated unit offering both fully automatic operation and driver-selectable gear changes. It features a torque converter for smooth launches and low-speed maneuverability, while also providing quick and precise shifts when operated in manual mode. The transmission is calibrated to complement the engine’s power characteristics, delivering responsive acceleration and seamless gear transitions.
Driving Characteristics
The Spyker C8 Preliator 4.2 V8 Tiptronic delivers a thrilling driving experience characterized by its responsive acceleration, precise handling, and engaging dynamics. The combination of the powerful V8 engine and the quick-shifting Tiptronic transmission allows for rapid acceleration. Independent tests confirm a 0-60 mph time of approximately 3.5 seconds and a 0-100 km/h time of 3.7 seconds. The car boasts a top speed of 322 km/h (200.08 mph).
The mid-engine layout and rear-wheel-drive configuration contribute to excellent balance and agility. The suspension, comprised of double wishbones at both the front and rear, provides a firm yet controlled ride. The steering is precise and communicative, offering the driver a direct connection to the road. While the automatic transmission offers convenience, some enthusiasts prefer the more direct engagement of a manual gearbox, which was also available on other C8 Preliator models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Spyker C8 Preliator 4.2 V8 Tiptronic is a luxury sports car, and as such, it comes standard with a high level of equipment. The interior is meticulously crafted with premium materials, including leather upholstery, aluminum accents, and carbon fiber trim. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, and a high-end audio system. The seats are sport-bucket style, providing excellent support during spirited driving.
Optional extras included a bespoke interior customization program, allowing customers to personalize the car to their exact specifications. Other options included a navigation system, a rearview camera, and various exterior styling enhancements. The dashboard features a unique design incorporating aviation-inspired gauges and controls, reflecting Spyker’s heritage.
Chassis & Braking
The C8 Preliator utilizes a steel space frame chassis, providing a rigid and lightweight foundation for the vehicle. The chassis is designed to maximize torsional stiffness, enhancing handling and stability. The car’s kerb weight is 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs), contributing to its impressive power-to-weight ratio of 2.6 kg/Hp.
The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners. The front brakes measure 350 mm in diameter, while the rear brakes are 332 mm. The system is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced safety. The suspension features transverse stabilizer bars at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering system is a rack and pinion type with hydraulic power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Spyker C8 Preliator 4.2 V8 Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its striking design, powerful engine, and engaging driving dynamics. However, its high price tag and limited production numbers restricted its appeal to a niche market. Compared to other C8 variants, the Tiptronic model offered greater convenience for everyday driving, but some purists preferred the more involved experience of the manual transmission.
Fuel economy is not a primary concern for owners of this type of vehicle, but the Preliator offers reasonable efficiency for its performance level. Reliability is generally good, although maintenance costs can be high due to the car’s exotic nature and the use of specialized components. The Preliator’s main competitors included the Porsche 911, Ferrari 458, and Lamborghini Huracan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Spyker |
| Model | C8 Preliator |
| Engine Type | 4.2 V8 40V (525 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of Production | 2016 |
| Body Type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 3.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.5 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 322 km/h (200.08 mph) |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 2.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 2.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 525 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per Liter | 125.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 3500 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Maximum Engine Speed | 7200 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Displacement | 4172 cm³ (254.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 8 |
| Engine Configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression Ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of Valves per Cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk Space (minimum) | 120 l (4.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Length | 4628 mm (182.2 in.) |
| Width | 1953 mm (76.89 in.) |
| Height | 1202 mm (47.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm (107.28 in.) |
| Front Track | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Rear Track | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of Gears | 6 |
| Gearbox Type | Automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front Suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear Suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs, 350 mm |
| Rear Brakes | Ventilated discs, 332 mm |
| Front Tires | 235/35 R19 |
| Rear Tires | 295/30 R19 |
Legacy
The Spyker C8 Preliator 4.2 V8 Tiptronic, while produced in limited numbers, represents a high point in Spyker’s engineering and design capabilities. The powertrain, while based on Audi components, was refined and enhanced by Spyker to deliver a unique and exhilarating driving experience. On the used car market, these vehicles command a premium due to their rarity and exclusivity. Maintenance can be costly, requiring specialized expertise and parts. However, for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and high-performance sports car, the C8 Preliator remains a desirable and captivating option.
