2006 Spyker C8 Test Drive

Going Dutch

We take a wild ride in an obscure $250,000 Dutch supercar soon to make a splash in America.

Interior

Like spokes on the Aeroblade wheels, those of the steering wheel also carry the propeller motif. Quilted leather lining the interior also evokes Spyker's aviation history; likewise toggle switches on the dash. If the standard instrument gauges that ape the face of an expensive watch aren't bespoke enough, clients can order a custom dashboard designed by German watchmaker Chronoswiss: gauges match an available wristwatch, which costs more than $5,000.

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The C8's doors swing skyward and there's a wide sill to clear before settling into the supportive leather bucket seats, replete with racing-style four-point harnesses. The steering wheel and pedals are adjustable.

Exposed chrome bars of the six-speed manual Getrag transmission bisect the cockpit, a design that looks as cool — both retro and bespoke — as it is functional — facilitating gear changes.