The Malaysian automotive scene, typically known for accessible vehicles, is witnessing a remarkable shift with the introduction of the Bufori CS8. This new luxury coupe marks a bold departure for Bufori, a brand previously recognized for its vintage-inspired creations. The CS8 is a formidable machine, powered by an impressive 810-horsepower supercharged Hemi V8, capable of blistering acceleration from a standstill to 62 mph in just three seconds. Constructed with a lightweight carbon-kevlar body, the vehicle also promises exceptional handling and stopping power through its adaptive suspension and high-performance Brembo brakes. While certain components are sourced from Stellantis, Bufori emphasizes the bespoke nature of the CS8, offering extensive customization options to ensure each unit is distinct. Positioned as a direct competitor to high-end sports cars, this meticulously hand-built coupe carries a substantial price tag of over half a million dollars.
Established in Australia during the 1980s before relocating to Malaysia, Bufori has historically carved out a niche in the automotive landscape with its distinctive, retro-styled roadsters and sedans, often drawing comparisons to classic marques like Morgan. However, the CS8 represents a significant evolution in their design philosophy, embracing a more contemporary, high-performance aesthetic. The heart of this beast, a supercharged 6.4-liter Hemi V8, delivers a staggering 750 horsepower to the wheels and 717 pound-feet of torque, all managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Despite its substantial power output, the CS8 maintains an optimal 50/50 front/rear weight distribution, contributing to its claimed three-second sprint to 62 mph.
While the mechanical prowess of the CS8 is undeniable, its exterior design, according to some observers, presents a more conventional appearance. Notably, certain elements, such as the wheel design, bear a resemblance to those found on Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat models, and the interior, though largely unseen, features a steering wheel that appears to be a direct import from Dodge's parts bin. Nevertheless, Bufori asserts that only about 10% of the CS8's components are derived from Stellantis. Beyond the range-topping supercharged Hemi, Bufori intends to offer a selection of other powertrains, including a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter Hemi producing 475 horsepower, a supercharged 3.6-liter V6 with 455 horsepower, a naturally aspirated V6 delivering 320 horsepower, and a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six generating 550 horsepower, possibly a variant of the Hurricane engine seen in the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack.
The meticulous craftsmanship involved in each Bufori CS8 underscores its exclusivity. The company's owner, Gerry Khouri, revealed that each vehicle demands an astonishing 9,000 person-hours for completion, indicating a painstaking attention to detail and a low production volume. Unveiled to the public in 2019, the journey to production has been extensive. With a starting price reported to be around 2.188 million Malaysian Ringgits, or approximately $518,000, the CS8 enters a competitive luxury segment. For comparison, an Aston Martin Vanquish, which offers similar horsepower figures from a twin-turbo V12, presents an alternative. Bufori has not yet disclosed any plans for official importation of the CS8 into the United States, suggesting that acquiring one may prove to be a challenge for enthusiasts outside of its primary markets.
Ultimately, the Bufori CS8 stands as a testament to Malaysian ingenuity in the realm of high-performance automobiles. This distinct coupe blends powerful American-sourced engines with an exclusive hand-built approach, offering a compelling blend of speed, luxury, and customization. Its entry into the elite automotive landscape signifies a new chapter for Bufori, moving beyond its vintage roots to embrace modern performance benchmarks, all while maintaining its commitment to artisanal quality and individualized ownership experiences.