REPRINT FROM #10 2003
TEST DRIVE OF SCHNELL D8 AWD-S
BARGAIN WITH FLAWS
Schnell has a rich tradition of building sports sedans. The legacy continues with the D8.
“Platform thinking” is a hot topic in the automotive industry at the moment. Having a whole range of model built on the same underpinnings saves both time and money for development. So, it may sound weird, but today a SUV and a sports sedan can be built on more or less the same parts underneath. Exactly that could be said about the Schnell D8, which is built on the platform first seen used by the D4 SUV.
Not only platforms are shared, sometimes even different brands shares parts with each other, like engines. The D8 has a Hakumai build V8, 5 litres and 372 hp which of course gives good performance, but the car is heavy so maybe not as extreme as it sounds. But a 0-100 time of 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 282 km/h should satisfy most buyers. Quartermile is said to be done in 13.86 seconds. Annoying, however, is the rev limiter that cuts off at 6600 RPM where the engine still has more to give.
The weight also takes its toll on braking, despite huge vented discs there is fading problems and 100-0 is done in 40.3 metres. Absolutely not bad but some competitors are better. The same could be said about the handling. It is neutral and pleasant to drive, and feels safe and secure, but even if it’s a decent figure, some competitors offer better rating at the skidpad than 0.94 G. Tyres could play a part in it, the Tyrelli P5100s mounted on the D8 is more a comfort oriented tyre for upmarket family sedans than for really fast, sporty cars.
Combine that with a thirst on fuel that can’t be ignored and a somewhat lacking safety equipment, and it becomes clear that despite its sinister looks, the Schnell D8 is not one of the top contenders in its class.
But, instead, it has a chance of becoming the real price fighter at only $36500 AMU. For a car in this class that is almost impressive, and you still get a fast, sporty car for that amount, that “almost” makes it even if it never reaches the top.
So, we are somewhat positive about the chances for Schnell to win the customers here. Because no matter how good a car is, you never get it sold to a buyer that can’t afford it. The D8 brings the sports sedans down to the people, and that will absolutely catch a customer or two.
Thanks to @interior for the car!