AutoRAI 2001

Porsche, Spyker and more

The "AutoRAI" auto-show is held every two year in the Amsterdam RAI buildings. This year it was open from 8 till 19 February and visited by almost 500.000 people (AutoRAI record). The Porsche stand had four cars on display. A Seal-Grey 996, a Lapis Blue 986 (2.7l) and first time on show in The Netherlands the Porsche Carrera GT and the GT2. The Carrera GT still as a concept car but a production start in 2003 is very likely. The Carrera GT impresses very much and was admired by an immense crowd. With the VIP card that Porsche sent me, I had the privilege to enter the stand and walk in between the cars. Please click on the pictures to see a larger version.

There is another car brand I would like to pay some attention to. The Dutch car manufacturer Spyker (i.a. known for being the first with a 4 wheel drive car and first with 6 cylinder engine). The brand ceased to exist in 1925. However the brand name Spyker now is re-born and connected to a new, exclusive and independent Dutch sportscar manufacturer that will start production this year in The Netherlands. Two types have been designed and are going to be produced. The C8 Spyder and the C8 Laviolette (a coupe). The Spyder concept car was introduced October last year in Birmingham (UK), the Laviolette made it's world debut at the AutoRAI 2001. According to plan, this year, 10 Spyders and 5 Laviolettes will be produced, next year 25 each. A race version of the Laviolette is being developed.

The first time seeing pictures I thought I did not like the design, too striking, too much eye-catching. However, after having seen these cars in real person and after seeing more pictures and reading the specifications, my appreciation is growing. Just look at a detail like this, wow isn't that wonderful. I believe it gives evidence of great courage when starting from zero and eventually bring out two very unique models. If you like to read a little bit more about the new Spyker types and a little bit about the history as well be sure to visit this link and while being there don't forget to watch the movie.

The beautiful former Spyker crest is used again and includes the appropiate Latin text: "nulla tenaci invia est via": for the tenacious no road is impassable.