Bugatti Veyron

The Bugatti Veyron, known to most as the king of super cars. It is the work of some of the most specialized engineers that have made what people thought would be impossible, possible. The result of a 8.0 liter W16 quad turbo engine that develops 1001bhp and 1250Nm of savage torque. They have opened the doors to a new world, a world of 407km/h (253mph) and a 0-100km/h (o-62mph) in as little as 2.5 seconds. This then is the ultimate speed machine.

There are many super cars out there that have tried to compete with the Bugatti Veyron. The reality however is that not many come close. Lots of super cars can come close to the Veyron's top speed, and some have even beaten it (SSC Ultimate Aero), however there is a crucial difference. Many of the super cars that compete with the Veyron do not have even half of the Veyron's characteristics. I mean lots of them have similar amount of power, but its how usable that power is that really matters. With its sophisticated four wheel drive system, the Bugatti is able to deliver immense traction in dry or wet conditions, sophisticated differentials can transfer the power from rear axle to front axle, the advanced ESP system that it comes with is able to control all the power around sharp corners so that the driver remains in control.

The seven speed DSG gearbox that it comes with is fantastic because it is able to deliver the most seamless gear changes which is perfect for city traffic and for when you want to cruise in absolute comfort. It is able to deliver very smooth changes even with the ferocious amounts of power that is delivered from the engine. The interior is full of leather and luxury as well as absolute refinement. At speeds over 300km/h it is just as stable on the road as it was when it was traveling at 100km/h thanks to its advanced aerodynamics. There is no other car that can deliver this much power with such confidence and composure, and that is why the Bugatti Veyron is able to remain the king of super cars.

Audi

So where does Audi place in the world of the European super car? Well, the R8 blends in perfectly with the European super car club. We first saw the R8 lunch in 2008, and it safe to say that for the most part everyone loved it. It has the same FSI V8 420bhp engine as the Audi RS4, only now it is in the engine is located in the middle not in the front. Also, Audi have managed to build R8's with exceptional chassis that are very well balanced. It is a super car that is just so manageable, so useful, and so great to drive everyday. If you fancy it on a track day it an absolute treat, because of how well it is made. Its four wheel drive system will keep you out of trouble, and even when the grip lets go it is just so manageable. It is an all time great car.

The Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI which came out late 2009 is so far the ultimate R8. With its all new redesigned 5.2 liter V10, it stands at the top with some of the most desirable European super cars. The new V10 produces 525bhp, and its actually the same basic engine as the new Lamborghini Gallardo. I like to refer to it as a de-tuned LP 560 engine, because that's where it is coming from. With the increased power this thorough bread super car has engraved a name of its own. With its brilliant looks, outstanding handling capabilities, and with its unique super car looks, it shouts its name in the European super car club with authority.

Aston Martin

Perhaps one of the most elegantly desirable super cars of all time. Aston Martin is known for its sleek and elegant styling. It is a blend of power, soul, and beauty as displayed on the speedometer when the engine is ignited.

Aston Martin currently sells the V8 Vantage, the DB9, the DBS, the V12 Vantage, and the One-77. This exceptional lineup of models display the Aston Martin badge with absolute pride and display the styling and engineering capabilities. As all Aston Martin models are hand built in England, the quality and precision is up to very high standards as expected.

The V8 Vantage is the smallest Aston Martin and the most affordable. It has a 4.7 liter V8 that produces 420bhp @ 7000rpm and 470Nm @ 5750rpm. This means a sprint to 62mph(100km/h)in 4.7 seconds, and a top speed of 180mph(290km/h).

The DB9 is the bigger brother of the V8 Vantage, and its the more powerful and more expensive Aston. Its looks are nothing short of breathtaking and its exhilarating interior is a wonderful place to be in. It really sums up as to what a grand tourer is all about, with power, speed, and comfort all mixed in a perfect blend. The DB9 comes with a 6.0 liter V12 that develops one of the most wonderful engine notes. It produces 470bhp achieved at 6000rpm, and an impressive 600Nm of torque at 5000rpm. These numbers are able to launch the DB9 from 0-62mph (0-100km/h)in 4.6 seconds, and give it a top speed of 190mph (305km/h).

Next comes the Aston Martin DBS. Probably the prettiest Aston Martin on sale. It captures similar looks to that of the DB9 but with some slight re-styling in addition to some fenders specially designed rims and gills on the engine's hood to help cool the power plant. Speaking of power plants, the DBS comes with the same 6.0 liter V12 as the DB9, but it has been tweaked to produce 510bhp @ 6500rpm and a peak torque 570Nm @ 5750rpm. Acceleration to 62mph comes up in just 4.3 seconds and keeps on accelerating to a top speed of 193mph (310km/h). The DBS is also the first Aston Martin to be fitted with standard carbon ceramic brakes which significantly improve braking performance and virtually never fade.

The Aston Martin V12 is basically the same as the V8 Vantage styling wise, with a bit more flare. It has a more sporty look to it and just like the DBS it has a more aggressive look with its gills on the hood of the engine. The V12 Vantage carries one very specific characteristic as the DBS, and that is it carries the exact 6.0 liter V12 engine fitted in the DBS. However because the Vantage is naturally a lighter car, it is able to jump from 62mph in just 4.2 seconds (a tenth faster than the DBS)and carry on to a top speed of 190mph (305km/h). The V12 Vantage is also equipped with standard carbon ceramic brakes as the DBS.

Last but not least comes the most expensive and most exclusive Aston Martin ever build, the One-77. With only 77 units to ever be built, this is by far the most exclusive Aston we have ever seen. It will cost a whopping $2.4 million (US Dollars), which means that it will attract very exclusive clientele. It is also the most powerful Aston ever built, with a 7.3 liter V12 that develops a massive 750bhp. It is predicted that it will hit 62mph in 3.5 seconds, and have a top speed in excess of 200mph. Because Aston will build this car at a rate of 2 cars per week, it wont be ready for delivery until late 2010. The lucky owners will simply have to wait!