Bugatti EB 16.4 Veyron Tops 400 KM/H!

According to Bugatti, production of pre-run models has been underway at the carmaker's studio in Molsheim, France. A

When the Veyron does become available, it will be the most powerful production sports car on the planet. (Photo: Volkswagen AG)

pilot lot was supposed to have been initiated at the beginning of this month, which should mean production models will be forthcoming this summer, or at the very latest, fall. Bugatti is targeting its first order by the second half of 2005.

When it does become available, it will be the most powerful production sports car on the planet. Its 8.0-litre W16 engine currently produces 1001 PS (metric horsepower), which is the equivalent to 987-horsepower as we calculate it here in North America. And what about torque? A total of 922 lb-ft should make for quick sprints to 100 km/h, let alone up to its top speed of 400 km/h.

The car also boasts the most advanced braking system around, which not only incorporates a state of the

There is little doubt Bugatti will sell every example it can build. (Photo: Volkswagen AG)

art carbon-ceramic/titanium conventional disc/caliper setup, but also uses a unique cooling system for what Bugatti describes as "extremely fade-resistance". What's more, the rear wing acts as an airbrake when at speeds over 200 km/h - taking only 0.4 seconds to initiate.

The impressive car will bring new meaning to the word expensive, but its owners will have the knowledge that they're in possession of the fastest, and most sophisticated road car ever made. No doubt, Bugatti will sell every example it can build.