Donkervoort celebrates 40-year jubilee with introduction of D8 GTO-40
&w=3840&q=75)
The lightest and fastest GTO ever
On 1 July 1978, Joop Donkervoort (then 28 years old) started the engine of his hand-built S7, the very first car to bear his name. Marking the birth of Donkervoort Automobielen.
Over the past four decades Donkervoort has expanded from a childhood dream to an international brand synonymous with lightweight, (record) performance and pure driving experience. Pioneering, going against the grain, against the established order. The quest for even better, even lighter and even faster never ends.
After all, many more Donkervoort models followed hot on the heels of that very first S7. Such as the D10, which broke the world acceleration record in 1988. The popular S8 and D8 series, which competed in our own international gentlemen’s race series, the Donkervoort Cup, for nigh on a decade. Or the D8 270 RS, which broke the lap record on the Nürburgring Nordschleife and held it for over three years – not once, but twice. And the first hardtop Donkervoort, the D8 GT, which was victorious in the 24H Dubai in 2011.
&w=3840&q=75)
Anniversary model
The crowning glory of Donkervoort’s 40-year track record is the introduction of an exclusive jubilee model: the D8 GTO-40. The D8 GTO-40 marks the pinnacle of Donkervoort’s evolution. The ultimate supercar giving the purest driving experience and an harmonious connection between car and driver.
&w=3840&q=75)
The lightest GTO ever
To this end Donkervoort developed its patented carbon-fibre EX-CORE® technology in-house, which ensures that components are even lighter and yet more robust. So innovative is this technology that it was even nominated for the European Union Innovation Grant for High-tech Materials recently. EX-CORE® is extensively used in the D8 GTO-40.
Thanks to a collaborative effort with the R&D department of the renowned steel producer Tata Steel, the basis of the D8 GTO-40 – its steel tubular chassis – has been made even stronger. Torsional rigidity has been increased by at least 15%, despite the overall weight of the chassis having been reduced even further. Combined with the EX-CORE® body parts, the upshot is unrivalled safety and torsional rigidity.
Ultimately meaning that the D8 GTO-40 is at least 22 kg* lighter compared to the 2011 D8 GTO.
&w=3840&q=75)
The fastest GTO ever
In terms of design, the focus for the D8 GTO-40 was on enhancing downforce and aerodynamic balance. This is evident in the striking design as well as in the details of the aerodynamic elements. From the integrated front spoilers to the diffuser on the rear. Extra cooling for the power train, rear wheels and brakes has been achieved by means of the extra air ducts in the nose, rear mudguards and bumper.
&w=3840&q=75)
The most versatile GTO ever
Aside from all the technical and optical innovations, the D8 GTO-40 is above all a versatile Donkervoort. As well as being pure and fast, it’s also ideal for touring in comfort. To this end, the driver can select from a wide range of options.
Varying from a lightweight air conditioning system – an entirely new option in a Donkervoort – to a brand-new titanium exhaust and exhaust system giving the driver the option of switching between a racier or more comfortable sound. Another first is the unique, 100% carbon-fibre rims.
Each and every feature personal and bespoke, yet never making sacrifices in terms of the top performance and ultimate driving experience for which Donkervoort has been renowned for 40 years now.
&w=3840&q=75)
Limited edition
The D8 GTO-40 starts from € 159,600 excluding taxes and is limited to a symbolic 40 cars. More than half of these were already sold during the presale that started earlier this year.
*tare weight including lightweight options
Photo credits: G.F. Williams
Photo location: Lelystad Airport
About Donkervoort
Established in 1978 by Joop Donkervoort and now led by his son, Denis, Donkervoort Automobielen has sold approximately 1,700 cars. Operating from Lelystad, the Netherlands, with a team of more than 50 specialists, the company first gained widespread acclaim with the D10 in 1988, setting a world acceleration record. This was followed by the D8 270 RS in 2005, which set a Nürburgring lap record.
The F22, further integrating its patented Ex-Core carbon fibre technology, achieved an astonishing 2.3g of lateral acceleration at Circuit Zandvoort, exceeding the D8 GTO-JD70’s already impressive 2.1g benchmark. This milestone highlights Donkervoort’s relentless pursuit of performance and innovation.
Dedicated to crafting exclusive supercars fully tailored to their drivers’ preferences and ensuring the purest driving experience—whether an unfiltered connection to the road or track or a more refined balance of comfort and performance—the brand continues to embody the 'Living the Drive’ ethos. Looking to the future, Donkervoort has unveiled a new model, further reinforcing the brand’s bold evolution and unwavering commitment to innovation.
