BYD S8
A rare Chinese hardtop convertible infamous for its derivative styling.
- Power
- 140 bhp
- Top speed
- 112 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$12k
About the BYD S8
The BYD S8 is a front-wheel-drive hardtop convertible that gained notoriety for its blatant design similarities to European cars, specifically the Mercedes-Benz CLK at the front and the Renault Mégane CC at the rear. Originally unveiled as the F8 prototype in 2006, it was the first sports car developed by a Chinese brand to feature a power-retractable steel roof. Despite its ambitious positioning, the S8 was a commercial failure, with production lasting only two years and resulting in just over 100 units sold. It remains a curious footnote in automotive history, representing an era of derivative design before BYD's pivot to original electric vehicle technology.
BYD S8 specs
The BYD S8 produces 140 bhp (104 kW) and 186 Nm (137 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).
| Make | BYD |
|---|---|
| Model | S8 |
| Trim | 2.0 |
| Years | 2009–2010 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Convertible |
| Country | China |
| Production | About 103 built |
| Engine | 2.0-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 140 bhp (104 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 186 Nm (137 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 112 mph (180 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,525 kg (3,362 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 92 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BYD S8 worth?
A typical BYD S8 is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $12,000 (about £3,700 – £8,900).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BYD S8 rarity in CarSpot
The BYD S8 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BYD S8 fun facts
- The BYD S8 was so unpopular that only seven units were reportedly sold in its final production year of 2010.
- The car's retractable hardtop mechanism was designed to open or close in approximately 25 seconds.
- While it looks like a sports car, its 2.0-litre engine and 14-second 0-100 km/h time meant it offered very little in the way of actual performance.