The Bugatti
Veyron is, by every measure, the world's most extreme production road
car. It's the quickest to 60, has the highest top speed, and can
absolutely dominate a track.
The original Veyron claimed 1,001 horsepower, which in itself was a
major technical achievement. Its engine, boasting 16 cylinders, was
essentially formed by joining two V8 engines at the crank.
The W16 power-plant displaces 8.0-liters and features ten radiators for
everything from the engine cooling systems to the air conditioner.
The standard Bugatti Veyron
Coupe ran a cool $1.3 million and could reach a top speed of 253 mph - a
speed it can maintain for 12 minutes before all the fuel is gone. Power
is transmitted to the pavement via four-wheel-drive and a seven-speed
dual-clutch automated manual transmission.
The car could hit 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, 100 mph in 5.5 seconds,
and 150 mph in 9.8 seconds. Getting to 200 mph took 18.3 seconds, and
250 mph takes 42.3 seconds.
A special key is required to "unlock" the Veyron's top speed of 250+
mph. The car is then lowered to just 3.5 inches from the ground. A
hydraulic spoiler extends at speed, and it can also serve as an air
brake.
The Veyron weighs a hulking 4,160 lbs, but even its harshest critics admit its handling is surprisingly sharp.