BYD S8. 2009–10 (prod. n/a). 2-door coupé–convertible. F/F, 1991 cm³ (I4 DOHC). Instead of cloning Toyotas, BYD styled its convertible along Mercedes-Benz SL (R230) lines. The effort was actually more original, thanks to the FWD proportions that made it feel different to the Mercedes-Benz, but even in China it was criticized for being a copycat. Rear end looked more like Renault Mégane II CC. Car weighed in at a hefty 1,525 kg, so the 103 kW four failed to make it sporting. Also hampered by rear torsion beam suspension, and poor quality.

Manufacturing location: Xi’an, China

Marque: BYD

Off-site link

• Boitier Rouge on the BYD S8