Donkervoort D8 GT in production, sales begin in June

/
Click above for a high-res gallery of the Donkervoort D8 GT.

When we first laid eyes on the Donkervoort D8 GT back in Geneva in 2007, we couldn't help but be compelled by the minimalist coupe's aggressive styling and performance potential. Now, just over a year since it's initial unveiling, the Dutch specialty automaker has begun production of the D8 GT, with sales beginning in Europe next month.

The GT model finds its inspiration from the original D8, but the changes aren't limited to the addition of a fixed roof. The roof, doors and other components are made of carbon fiber, and extensive use of aluminum along with 14-pound wheels allows the GT to tip the scales at just over 1,400 pounds. Motivation is provided by an Audi-sourced, turbocharged 1.8-liter four that can be tweaked to output 180, 210 or 270 hp. In top of the line guise, the G8 GT won't have any problems sprinting to 60 in less than four seconds.

Donkervoort is looking to produce 50 DB GTs each year, with the cost of entry pegged at 90,000 euros.

View 13 Photos

[Source: Donkervoort]

PRESS RELEASE

Dutch sportscar maker, Donkervoort launches production of D8 GT

LELYSTAD, The Netherlands - In the factory of Donkervoort Automobiles, production of the D8 GT has been launched. D8 GT was originally unveiled at the 2007 Geneva Show and its development process has just been completed. The first cars will be delivered to customers in August.

D8 GT was created utilizing Donkervoort's racing experience. It is based on the open-top D8 roadster, but the whole construction has significantly been upgraded. D8 GT features integrated headlights, a wider trak, a 8-inch longer wheelbase, custom-tailored braking system from Tarox and new 17" wheels. It is powered by a 1.8-liter Audi engine, which comes in various states of tuning from 180 to 270 hp.

D8 GT weights just 650 kg, thanks to the extensive use of carbonfiber. Due to its low weight the car conforms to stringent emission rules.

More Information