A limited edition D8 GTO-RS has been revealed by Dutch sports car makers Donkervoort.
Following its predecessor - the D8 270 RS, which set the lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 2004 and 2006 - the new D8 GTO-RS has been 'completely redesigned' during the past three years and is described as more extreme and faster than ever. The D8 GTO-RS was announced as a limited edition of 40 units in early 2016, however after a large number of the cars were sold, Donkervoort says it chose to expand the RS series to a 'Bare Naked Carbon Edition' and a 'Race Edition'.
The Bare Naked Carbon Edition will be limited to just 15 cars. Naturally, all of the carbon fibre elements in the special edition models will be left exposed. Only 10 of the Race Edition will be built and will be optimised for track driving - with features that include a (non-street-legal) sequential gearbox and 'lap time-enhancing track day' features.
Power comes from an Audi 2.5-litre R5 TFSI, which has been updated to meet the latest environmental requirements while the engine management has also been optimised, giving ‘greatly improved torque throughout the rev range’, resulting in even faster acceleration.
The new model marks the first time the Dutch company has succeeded in creating ‘substantial downforce’, says Donkervoort. The new nose design, streamlined bodywork with a completely closed carbon fibre bottom plate and side skirt is joined by various small spoilers and vanes to contribute towards a downforce of 50 kg on the front and rear axle. Compared to the D8 GTO the air resistance has been reduced by 20 per cent. The aerodynamic improvements result not only in greater stability at high speeds but also aid an increased top speed.
For the real track day devotee, the RS offers several more extra features that improve the lap times as well as driving pleasure. These include the RS's brand new suspension system and a refined, fully adjustable racing ABS and traction-control system as well as an automatic double-clutching feature.
On the inside, a more ‘aesthetically refined and sophisticated’ interior includes plenty of visible carbon fibre in the bottom structure - consisting of the floor plate and tunnel. Additional functionalities have also been added inside, some of which can be found on the steering wheel.
With a starting price of €151,173 excl. taxes. (Approx. (£128,693) the first Donkervoort D8 GTO-RS models will be delivered at the end of 2016. Delivery for orders place in 2016 are expected by January 2018.