Ares Design S1 Project Spyder: A Unique Mid-Engine Sports Car
Perhaps an unintended consequence of the Chevrolet C8 Corvette’s existence is that Chevrolet has put a mid-engine sports car blank canvas with a big V-8 in the hands of anyone who can come up with $59,999 (assuming you can find one for that price). Enter the Ares Design S1 Project Spyder, the roofless version of the S1 Project.
The Italian coachbuilding company, led by ex-Lotus head Dany Bahar, recently released images of the S1 Project Spyder. This model, along with the fixed-top version, is based on the C8 Corvette’s architecture, yet they clearly look nothing like a C8. In fact, the S1 Project Spyder resembles more of a McLaren Elva or a Ferrari Monza SP2.
Unique Design Features
In the spirit of true coachbuilding, not one panel has gone untouched. The bodywork is swoopier, and much like the one-off Lamborghini Aventador J, part of the hood flows into the cabin, creating the stem for the infotainment display while also contributing to the center console. With vents, scoops, and ducts integrated throughout, Ares emphasizes that this design is all about making a car that is “pure emotion.”
Powertrain and Performance
Resting just behind the driver and passengers’ heads is a naturally aspirated V-8 engine that produces an impressive 715 horsepower. We assume it’s a modified version of the Corvette’s 6.2-liter LT2 V-8. Ares Design states that these figures result from a custom exhaust and an ECU tune, which presents a substantial increase in output, and we eagerly await more details.
Power is routed through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and sent to the rear wheels. We suspect this is a heavily revised version of the DCT that exists in the current C8, modified to manage the extra power. The suspension mirrors that of the C8, featuring double A-arms both front and rear, equipped with magnetorheological shocks at all four corners.
Looking Ahead
To be frank, the design of the Ares Design S1 Project Spyder looks exceptional. Ares plans on a limited run at an undetermined price, and if the car does come to fruition, it will undoubtedly be a sight to behold.
