Vector Aeromotive Corporation, the controversial boutique supercar firm, had been in existence for more than 20 years under different corporate entities when its W8 was introduced. With 19 cars produced, it was by far the most successful vehicle in the company’s history. After the W8 production run, Vector was acquired by MegaTech, an Indonesian firm based in Bermuda that also owned Automobili Lamborghini. MegaTech ousted Vector founder Gerald Wiegert from the company and went on to produce the Vector M12 before dissolving.

The Vector W8 was a mid-engined, rear-wheel drive, two-seat sports car with an absurdly angular wedge-shaped design that looked like an exagerrated version of the already fantastical Lamborghinis of the day. The W8 was technologically advanced for its 1989 prototype debut, using aerospace-grade materials including aluminum honeycomb, kevlar and carbon fiber.

Engine power came courtesy of a 6.0-liter Rodeck aluminum block V-8 that was based on the venerable GM small block engine but fitted with twin Garrett turbochargers and direct port fuel injection. The engine was transversely mounted and mated to a three-speed Vector AutoMated automatic transmission purchased from Oldsmobile. Horsepower was rated at 650 while running eight pounds of boost from the turbos. Boost was driver-adjustable and Vector claimed 1200 hp if the driver was brave enough to dial it up to 14 pounds of boost. Torque was commensurate at about 650 lb-ft. at 8 pounds of boost, and acceleration stats included a 0-60 time of about 4.2 seconds.

Retail pricing on the Vector W8 was about $450,000 depending on the year of manufacture, but resales in recent years have been all over the board. With so few cars produced, collectors will have to wait for one to become available and then gauge current interest to establish a purchase price.