GTM Spyder

SPYDER OVERVIEW          SPYDER SPECS          SPYDER SUSPENSION

Like the Libra the Spyder is a very special car, designed and built for the enthusiast who wants a true convertible sportscar that can be driven without compromise. The Spyder came three years after the launch of the highly successful Libra, benefiting from all the innovations that had been tried and tested in the production of the Libra. Many of the detail components used on the Libra are carried through into the Spyder plus many more that have been made specifically to create the stunning looks of this mid-engined convertible. The original concept of a minimalist design, low component count, with emphasis on performance and aesthetics have been retained in the creation of the Spyder.

 

The GTM Spyder, although almost technically identical to the Libra, was completely styled by Richard Oakes. A further two years development have been put into the Spyder to create a true British open top sports car. The central monocoque of the Spyder is the most dramatically changed moulding requiring major modifications to the closed box sections within the tub to replace the rigidity lost from removing the roof section. Further strengthening to the floor pan was added along with a redesigned rear bulkhead. In all about 30 kilos have been added to the weight of the central tub, unfortunately the additional strengthening and modifications to the rear bulkhead have removed the option of fitting the KV6 engine.

A beautifully crafted soft-top has been designed into the bodywork to complement the lines of the car and offer real weatherproof protection. Chrome over centre catches secure the front header rail to the top edge of the screen and the full folding frame collapses flush behind the roll bar enabling a tight hood bag to enclose the whole assembly.

The boot section located behind the engine offers a separate boot area accessible from outside the car. The hinged flush fitting lid opens to give easy access to a wide useful storage area essential in an open top sports car for items that need to be stored secure and out of sight. A number of the inner trim panels have been redesigned to accommodate the styling changes to the exterior, these have all been done in line with the original design concept of the Libra.

As with the Libra, the Spyder suspension is unique and purpose-designed using computer modelling to give outstanding road holding and handling combined with a ride quality seldom found in such a lightweight sports car.

The front suspension is a relatively conventional unequal length wishbone set up, accurately designed and manufactured to ensure the best possible geometry. The wishbone bearings are made to a GTM design ensuring that the exact characteristics required are obtained. The steering rack is mounted forward of the front axle line so as to create the maximum possible space inside the car. This also produces a true mid-engined driving position making the car feel "special" to drive on every occasion. The rear suspension is truly innovative. It came about from the joint requirements to be minimalist and find a solution to the complex situation created by the mid-mounted transverse engine / gearbox unit.

  

The conventional solution of a space frame attached to the back of the tub was tried but this proved extremely difficult to triangulate around the engine/gearbox unit and added weight and complexity. The solution was to have trailing wishbones pivoted on the back of the tub with the coil and shock absorber load taken into the rear face of the tub. This solution gave a very elegant minimalist design where the heart of the car consists of a tub, 8 wishbones and 4 coil over shock absorber units.

The remaining composite mouldings are principally cosmetic apart from the radiator ducting which is designed to form a collapsible energy-absorbing zone at the front of the car. You can be assured that the safety of the occupants is fundamental to the whole design of the Spyder. The design is total; no standard part has been used which in any way compromises the design dynamically or ethically.

The attention to detail goes down to the smallest item. Seats, door locks, panel fasteners etc. have all been designed, tooled, and manufactured as the standard items were seen to compromise the total design ethos. Above all the Spyder was designed to be driven. Its light weight, combined with the high power outputs of the 'K' series and Honda engines, makes a truly exhilarating car to drive.