After more than a decade in development, the new Bufori CS8 is ready with endless customization and an American heart
A new chapter has opened for Bufori, the Australian-Malaysian automaker best known for its eccentric handmade sedans. After more than a decade in development, the company has introduced the CS8, an “Ultra High Performance Grand Tourer” built from carbon-kevlar, stuffed with a loud and unapologetically American supercharged V8, and carrying a price tag that could make even the Italians blush.
The CS8 traces its lineage back to the CS prototype of 2019, which itself was derived from the BMS R1 racing concept of 2009. While the exterior design remains faithful to its earlier form, details have been sharpened for production. LED headlights now sit neatly within the front fenders, the bumpers feature sportier intakes, and a new rear spoiler stretches across the long deck.
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The wheelbase has been extended to 2,609 mm (102.7 inches), bringing the overall length to 4,568 mm (179.8 inches). As with every Bufori since 1989, the bodywork is built entirely from a carbon-kevlar composite.
Inside The Cabin
The interior pairs racing intent with luxury flourishes. Two electrically adjustable Recaro bucket seats dominate the leather-trimmed cockpit. A 13.6-inch infotainment screen spans the center console above unusually placed climate vents, paired with an analogue instrument cluster and a Dodge-sourced steering wheel. Modern driver assistance systems are included, along with a smart tag that allows owners to locate the car via GPS.
Power And Performance
True to its name, the CS8 draws power from a supercharged 6.4-liter Hemi V8 producing 810 hp (604 kW / 821 PS) and 973 Nm (717.6 lb-ft) of torque, with 750 hp reaching the wheels. The engine is paired with an eight-speed torque-converter automatic that sends power to the rear axle through a limited-slip differential.
With this setup, the car sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just three seconds, before hitting a top speed electronically capped at 330 km/h (205 mph).
Buyers who want something slightly less intimidating to drive have the option of a naturally-aspirated 6.4-liter V8 from Dodge with 475 hp (354 kW / 482 PS). Buyers can also opt for a Stellantis-sourced 3.6-liter V6 offered in two configurations, a supercharged version with 455 hp (339 kW / 461 PS) or a naturally aspirated one with 320 hp (239 kW / 324 PS).
Rounding out the choices is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter unit that delivers 550 hp (405 kW / 558 PS), which appears to be Stellantis’ newer Hurricane engine.
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Bufori has not disclosed specifics about the CS8’s chassis, though it confirmed the use of adaptive suspension and Brembo brakes. Curb weight is listed at 1,550 kg (3,417 lbs), with slight variations depending on the chosen specification.
Crafted By Hand
Bufori founder and owner Gerry Khouri said that over 9,000 man-hours are required for building a CS8, with each one being unique. The company offers various personalization options from bespoke shades and hand-stitched upholstery to unique materials for the trim. Furthermore, each owner will receive a matching scale model of their CS8 as a gift.
According to Paultan, Bufori is based in Kepong, Malaysia, and currently employs 150 people. Pricing begins at 2.188 million Malaysian Ringgit (about $517,000), positioning the CS8 among established grand tourers such as the V12-powered Aston Martin Vanquish, Ferrari 12Cilindri, and the latest Bentley Continental GT with its plug-in hybrid V8.
A video from the CS8’s Malaysian debut, filmed by our friend Theophilus Chin, can be seen below.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio
