Porsche 918 Spyder

Introduction:

Porsche is known worldwide for producing high power vehicles and the Porsche 918 Spyder is yet another exceptional innovation by this elite German auto manufacturer. Spyder is a limited edition plug-in hybrid super car which was first introduced at the 80th Geneva Motor Show in March 2010 and ever since then, the car has been a big hit worldwide. The Spyder was completely sold out in December 2014 and the company further plans to manufacture 918 units in 2015. After tasting a sweet success in Europe, the car made its debut in Malaysia in 2014 and has been performing well on the sales chart throughout the country.

Engine, mileage & variants:

The car has literally got those racing genes embedded and can attain a top speed of a blazing 345 km/hr. The signature mid mounted engine employed in Spyder keeps the centre of gravity low and hence uniformly transfers load between the front and rear axles. The advanced V8 4.6 litre petrol engine can deliver a maximum power of 652 kW at 8500 rpm along with a peak torque of a stratospheric 1280 Nm. In addition to that, the car has also been packed with 2 electric machines which not only give high power and tremendous acceleration but also results in exceptional fuel economy. The car gives a combined fuel consumption of 32 kmpl which is truly phenomenal.

Exteriors:

Spyder has got enchanting looks all over the exteriors. The car gives a unique hunch at first sight. It blends perfect proportions with a contemporary, powerful look and a sportingly elegant exterior that appears to come from a single mould. The vertical contours of the headlights and the large imposing air intakes add to the sporty quotient. The sleek roofline, the front wings and the overarching front bonnet which extends over the elegant wings add to the aesthetics. The car comes employed with alloy wheels of rim size 20 inch at the front and 21 inch at the rear. The dimensions of the car are 4643 mm x 1940 mm x 1167 mm (L x W x H) and the wheelbase of the car measures 2730 mm. These dimensions impart perfect aerodynamics to the vehicle which is essential at such high speeds. The long wheelbase makes it stable and easier to cruise through corners.

Interiors:

The interiors of the 918 spyder gives the same adrenaline rush which is imparted by its engine. The cockpit resembles that of a fighter jet with three circular dials behind the steering. The steering itself is exceptionally sporty with all the buttons mounted on it or in its vicinity so that the driver doesn't have to get his hands off the wheel at high speeds. The centre console falls elegantly from the dash to the floor with an inclined touchscreen display and drive mode selector. The underlining aluminum throughout the cabin gives it the touch of luxury. Practicality is also maintained with sufficient storage spaces.

Safety, Braking and Miscellaneous:

The car has been embedded with the trademark Porsche Doppelkupplung(PDK) transmission system, which is available in manual and automatic versions and both ensure a phenomenal handling. It comes with Porsche Active Suspension System(PASM) that continuously regulates the damping force for each wheel depending on the type of terrain. The brakes on the 918 is the trademark Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) on all 4 wheels which do an efficient job of decelerating the vehicle. The German automakers have also kept in mind maximum safety of passengers. Spyder is equipped with standard full size airbags for driver and passenger that work in 2 different stages depending on the intensity of collision. Besides that the car has been incorporated with plenty of other safety features like Porsche Side Impact Protection System, Anti Theft Protection and Porsche Stability Management that are more than enough to ensure a safe ride.

Verdict:

Porsche Spyder is one of those rarest inventions on the planet that blends exceptional power, seductive looks and brilliant handling with a magnificent fuel economy. The only setback being the exorbitant price tag.