2010 Oullim Motors Spirra

Oullim Spirra: A Korean Dream Realized (Article for gearheads)

The Oullim Spirra is a Korean sports car with a fascinating story. Envisioned in the mid-1990s by Han-chul Kim, a designer at SsangYong Motors, the Spirra journeyed through several iterations before hitting the road in 2008. This article dives into the car's development, production models, and its unique electric variant.

From Dream to Reality: A Korean Exotic is Born

Kim's dream of a Korean supercar led him to leave SsangYong and co-found Proto Motors. The initial design featured a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout powered by a Ford Mustang V8 engine. A prototype, codenamed PS-II, debuted at the 2000 Seoul Motor Show. However, insufficient funds halted production.

The project received a lifeline in 2007 when Kim met Dong-hyuk Park, an IT entrepreneur with a passion for cars. Park's Oullim Motors acquired Proto Motors, and the Spirra was revived.

The Spirra Lineup: Unleashing Korean Performance

The production Spirra offered four trims: N, S, Turbo, and EX. These housed potent, modified V6 engines delivering exhilarating performance. The top-of-the-line Spirra EX boasted a staggering 500 horsepower, propelling it from 0-to-100 km/h in a blistering 3.5 seconds!

A Spirited Evolution: The Spirra CregiT

Later, Oullim introduced the CregiT series, featuring an even more powerful V6 engine. The CregiT variants offered impressive performance upgrades, with the CregiT EX reaching a remarkable 0-to-100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h.

Pricing and Availability: A Glimpse into Exclusivity

The Spirra's price varied depending on the market but ranged from $74,000 to $175,000 USD. This exclusivity was further accentuated by the car's limited production run (2008-2017).

Electrifying the Future: The Spirra E

Oullim partnered with Electric Power Holland to develop an electric version of the Spirra. While official specifications remain elusive, rumors suggest a top speed of 201 km/h and a driving range of 200 km.

A Legacy of Innovation: The Spirra's Impact

The Oullim Spirra stands as a testament to Korean automotive ambition. It challenged perceptions and showcased the country's capability to produce high-performance sports cars. While production has ceased, the Spirra remains a sought-after vehicle for car enthusiasts, a reminder of a Korean dream that became reality