Porsche Carrera GT

   The Porsche Carrera GT was produced since 2004. It is available as a roadster.

   This supercar is powered by a 5.7-liter V10 engine, developing over 600 horsepower. It hits a 100 km/h (60 mph) mark in under 4 seconds. The Porsche Carrera GT has a top speed of over 300 km/h (180 mph). Even past 200 km/h (125 mph) acceleration is impressive. It is worth mentioning that The Carrera GT has very little mass. It outperforms most of the supercars with only the McLaren F1 is notably faster. The Carrera GT also copes well with the traffic as it pulls smoothly. Engine is mated with a manual 6-speed gearbox.

   Despite it's impressive performance the Porsche Carrera GT is not just a guided missile blasting past everyone else on the Autobahn. It has a fabulously connected and sensational drive. There is an impressive grip and collosal braking force. Sure the ride is firm, but it still manages to knock the harshest edges of a bad road better than many other sports cars. Long wheelbase and center of gravity gives it a superb agility. The Carrera GT is superb through tight corners.

   Wind noise and buffet is an issue when the roof is down, however with the hard roof in place wind is well isolated. Furthermore it is not just a temporary roof, but is a serious year-round proposition.

   The Porsche Carrera GT is a very expensive proposition. Furthermore only of these 1 500 cars were built. It still remains a sensational object of desire, hence it's strong resale values. The Carrera GT was designed with durability in mind and it is a German supercar, so reliability and long service life guaranteed.

   Interior of the car shares steering column and instruments with the Porsche 911. Build quality is very close to perfection with even gaps between panels and only the most expensive materials used.

   An ultra-light drivers seat holds you well, but the only adjustment is fore-aft, not even recline. Forward visibility is pretty good, however it is awkward to look past the shoulder, while the rear visibility is limited. At high speed the rear spoiler rises and chops the mirror view in half.

   Manufactures claims that the Porsche Carrera GT is ment to be useable everyday, however it is very limited on practicality. It can easily accommodate two tall occupants, but there is an issue with the luggage space. The boot is tiny, but the split roof occupies it entirely.

   On the standard safety list there are front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes and traction control. However the main safety edge of the Porsche Carrera GT is an extremely tough carbonfiber tub and an impact-absorbing steel rails ahead of it. Deadlocks and alarm are fitted, however such an expensive car could do with a GPS tracking device as well.

   The Porsche Carrera GT comes with a phone, stereo and satellite navigation. Climate control is optional though.

   Production of the Carrera GT ended in 2006.

   Advantages: The Porsche Carrera GT has a gut-wrenching performance and brilliant handling. It also looks nice and has fine interior design.

   Disadvantages: Very expensive and built in limited numbers only. Limited equipment level.

   Verdict: A hypercar from Porsche, that's about sensations.

   Also consider: Koenigsegg CCX, Lamborghini Murcielago.