Since Porsche released introductory details of their high-performance [cough] hybrid [cough] supercar in early 2010, the buzz has centred around one question: “when can we see it?”
Initial prototypes of the 918 Spyder have now been completed. So, with great pleasure, we say “Now!”
Clearly time has not weathered the sultry looks of the new hybrid supercar, although astute eyes will notice there are a few differences from the concept that landed in Geneva two years ago. No surprise that the camera side mirrors are long gone, and new air intakes behind the front wheels have led to a rethink on panel design.
Still, even though they’re no longer side-mounted, the exhaust pipes now run straight through the (let’s say) roof right behind the driver and passenger. One can only dream how THAT noise will sound when it plays just four inches from you ear.
No doubt these images will already have you twiddling your fingers but let’s throw a few more details into the mix: alongside the 80kW lithium ion-electric motor, there’s a 562bhp 4.6l V8 snarling at the leash, leading to a combined 770hp output.
When it originally chucked the bait in the water in February 2010, Porsche mentioned a standstill to 100kph time of 3.2s and a top speed of 320kph. They also mentioned the 918 Spyder would lap the Nordschleife in 7m 30s, which has since gone down to 7m 22s. The daddy – the Porsche Carrera GT – has been royally felled.
We’re still way off the September 2013 production date, but these latest offerings suggest Porsche are confident enough to throw another morsel into the automotive pond.
