Concourse Hall at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show was home to the exotic brands. On display were models from Morgan, Maserati, and Saleen. Other well-known manufacturers included Panoz, Lamborghini, and Spyker.

Spyker? What's a Spyker?

Some may recognize the name, but many are likely unfamiliar with this Dutch brand, despite an automotive and aeronautical history that dates back more than 100 years. Spyker hand-builds a small variety of two-seater sports cars for the world's automotive markets and, in fact, has a growing dealer network here in the States (most in California, with others scattered throughout the country).

Debuting at this year's L.A. Auto Show was the 2005 Spyker C8 Spyder, a 2,750-pound open-top sports car that features a 101-inch wheelbase, a lightweight aluminum frame, and a V8 engine borrowed from Audi's S8. The C8 Spyder is literally an open-top car - there is no top available. In response to this, Spyker officials claim the low seating position and abundance of glass help isolate passengers from wind and rain.

Mounted mid-ship, the 4.2-liter V8 is good for 400 horsepower, and is capable of propelling the C8 Spyder from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, and to a top speed of 187 mph. Power is managed by a Getrag six-speed manual transmission with a unique design; the shifter is linked to a bar that lies atop the center console. Supposedly, this setup provides smoother and more accurate shifts. Without driving the car, that's hard to verify, but it looks cool. Controlling the ride is a fully adjustable, independent, stainless steel suspension that features settings for comfort and competition. Braking is handled by 14-inch discs all around.

Inside, drivers benefit from an adjustable steering wheel and adjustable foot pedals. Leather and aluminum are used generously in the cockpit, and accessing the rich hides is easier thanks to the electric doors that open upward. Front and rear clips are formed as entire pieces, and also tilt upward. The exterior is characterized by sweeping lines and sensuous curves and, again, is heavily accented with aluminum.

The C8 Spyder has already undergone testing for U.S. safety and emissions certification, and company officials expect the 2005 Spyker C8 Spyder to be fully certified within the first few months of 2005. Worldwide, fifty cars will likely be built and delivered in 2005, though there are currently orders for more than 90 cars.

There is no word on pricing just yet, but if you're interested in a 2005 Spyker C8 Spyder, get ready to stand in line.

By Thom Blackett