© Mercedes-Benz USA, © Ferrari S.p.A, © BMW AG, © Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S.
Extreme Exclusivity
Some cars are designed simply to get you from point A to point B — these are not those cars. The average purchase price of a new car in the U.S. is around $34,000 — the least expensive car on this list is more than seven times that figure. The following vehicles are extremely exclusive, and in some cases so rare that even if you had the money you couldn’t obtain one. These cars are not your typical daily drivers, although a few buyers will drive them with some regularity — but let’s face it, for those possessing the means to own one of these rarities, they likely have other options in their driveways. So what do you get when you pay more for a car than most will pay for their house? You get extreme power, ultimate performance, lavish amenities and exclusivity. Here’s a look at the cars (and SUVS) at the top of the automotive food chain.
© Bentley Motors
Bentley Flying Spur W12 S
$244,600
Bentley has been building cars since the 1920s, and has become one of the most widely recognized luxury brands in the world. The W12 S is the new flagship of the Flying Spur line, providing an excellent combination of luxury and extreme performance. With its massive 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine under the long hood putting out 626 horsepower and 605 lb-ft of torque, this is the first 4-door Bentley to have a top speed of more than 200 mph. Facilitating these incredible performance stats are a new suspension, optional carbon-ceramic brakes and all-wheel drive. As much fun as the W12 S would be to drive, the back seat is not such a bad place. Rear seats get swathed in premium-quality soft leather with 14-way adjustments as well as heat and ventilation. Almost 10 square meters of sustainably sourced natural wood is used per car in mirror-polished veneers for the fascia panels, consoles, waist rails and picnic tables.
© Ferrari S.p.A
Ferrari 488GTB
$245,400
The 488 GTB is the latest V8 Ferrari, and for the first time ever the Italian automaker has added a turbocharger. The 488 GTB’s engine displacement is small at 3.9 liters, but it manages to put out an amazing 660 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. Speed is impressive; 60 mph comes up in less than 3 seconds and in just over 8 seconds you’ll be passing 125 mph on the way to a top speed around 205 mph. The 488 GTB can lap Ferrari’s Fiorano test track in just 1:23 — almost two seconds faster than the legendary Enzo, and just as fast as the vaunted F12 Berlinetta. It also beats its predecessor — the Ferrari 458 Italia — by about 2 seconds.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-AMG S65 Cabriolet
$247,900
If you’re looking for ultimate luxury and performance in an open-top car, this might be the ride for you. The Mercedes-AMG S65 Cabriolet bolsters the Mercedes V12 lineup, powered by an AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine that produces 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, combined with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission. The first open-top 4-seat S-Class since 1971, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet features all the technology of other S-Class models, as well as a complete system for top-down warmth and wind control. The sleek, elegant design makes for one of the most exclusive S-Class models ever, with a coupelike profile when the soft-top is closed. The top. The three-layer acoustic fabric soft-top can be lowered in 20 seconds at speeds up to 35 mph, and is available in four colors with a high-quality Nappa leather lining and DINAMICA microfiber.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 Spyder
$262,450
If you’re going to be driving a Lamborghini, chances are people will be looking your way — what better way to be seen than with the top down? The LP 610-4 Spyder is the latest version of the Huracan featuring a lightweight soft-top for open-air driving. Powered by the same 610-horsepower 5.2-liter V10 engine as the coupe, the Huracan Spyder will accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds and achieve a top speed of 201 mph. Power for the Spyder is delivered through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and a new electronically-controlled all-wheel-drive system. The cloth top opens in 17 seconds, and with the top stowed two fins start behind the seats and run toward the rear of the car to continue the roofline, maintaining the sleek shape and optimizing airflow through the engine compartment.
© Ferrari S.p.A
Ferrari 488 Spider
$272,700
The 488 Spider is the open-top version of the powerful Ferrari 488 GTB. Since the debut of the 308 GTB in the 1970s, Ferrari has offered a V8-powered mid-engine 2-seat sports car and an open-top version since the targa-top 308 GTS. The 488 GTB and 488 Spider continue that tradition, powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine that produces 660 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque, teamed with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. The Spider’s power-retractable hardtop operates in 14 seconds, with two panels stowed behind the seats. The electric glass rear window can be placed in three different positions with the top up or down. Acceleration is extreme — 62 mph comes up in a mere 3 seconds, 124 mph in 8.7 seconds with a top speed exceeding 200 mph. Driving dynamics are enhanced by F1-Trac traction control, E-Diff 3 electronic differential, SSC2 side slip angle control and Magnetorheological suspension control.
© Ferrari S.p.A
Ferrari GTC4 Lusso
$300,000 (est.)
If the GTC4Lusso looks familiar, it’s because this vehicle used to be known as the Ferrari FF. Redesigned and renamed, the GTC4Lusso is still the family-sized Ferrari with room for four occupants, incorporating a hatchback design and usable cargo space. Simply because this Ferrari is more practical does not mean it is any less of a supercar. With a 6.3-liter V12 engine producing 680 horsepower and 514 lb-ft of torque under the hood, the GTC4Lusso puts that power to the pavement via a 7-speed dual-clutch F1 transmission and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. Massive brakes, high-performance tires and a new a rear-wheel steering system add to the impressive overall performance. Sixty mph comes up in just over 3 seconds and you’re in triple digits well before 10 seconds pass. Top speed is more than 200 mph — a thrill for the entire family.
© Aston Martin
Aston Martin Vanquish S Volante
$312,950
The Aston Martin Vanquish is the grand touring flagship of the Aston Martin line, and the Volante S is the ultimate open-top version. With a beautifully sculpted body trimmed in carbon fiber and new quad exhaust outlets, the Volante S looks fast even when standing still. Under the hood is power that complements the looks — a 6.0-liter V12 engine putting out almost 600 horsepower. The Touchtronic III ZF 8-speed automatic transmission has been tuned for faster shifts, and the suspension, dampers, spring rates and anti-roll bars have been set up to give the Vanquish S added performance and handling while retaining the smooth ride expected in a grand touring car.
© BMW AG
Rolls-Royce Wraith
$320,550
No other brand exemplifies luxury better than Rolls-Royce, and the Wraith embodies a unique offering from the legendary British marque. Rather than the stately sedan we’re accustomed to seeing from Rolls, the Wraith is a fastback with sleek lines and the most powerful Rolls-Royce engine ever offered. Rolls-Royces have always been advertised as having “adequate” power — the 624 horsepower produced by the Wraith’s V12 is clearly more than adequate. Rear-hinged coach doors allow for easy entry and exit, and upon ingress you’ll be surrounded by the softest leather and Canadel Paneling. A unique feature to Rolls-Royce is the Starlight Headliner — 1,340 fiber-optic lamps are hand-woven into the roof lining to give the impression of a glittering, starry night sky.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible
$322,600
The Supersports resides at the top of the Bentley Continental lineup as the British marque’s ultimate example of 2-door luxury and performance. Available as a 4-seat coupe or convertible, the Continental Supersports boasts a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 engine that generates an immense 700 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque. Teamed with a fast-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission and full-time all-wheel drive, the new open-top Continental can reach 60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds. Top speed is listed at 205 mph. The Supersports sets itself apart from the “common” Continental with unique front and rear bumper designs incorporating a carbon-fiber splitter and diffuser, as well as new side sill extensions and hood vents that are also finished in carbon fiber. The convertible features a multi-layer top with high levels of acoustic insulation providing the luxury and refinement of a coupe. Inside, the seats and door panels feature a new diamond-quilted design, and checkered carbon-fiber fascia panels are a new addition to the existing list of 10 veneers and technical finishes available.
© Bentley Motors
Bentley Mulsanne EWB
$335,600
Bentley debuted the next-generation Mulsanne in Geneva last year and for the first time is offering an extended-wheelbase version of the marque’s flagship sedan. The ultra-luxurious Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase can be equipped with airplane-style extended legrests for the rear seats, a rear sunroof and focuses on the comfort of rear-seat passengers with 10 inches of additional rear-seat legroom. The new Mulsanne features a more prominent grille, new front fenders, a new hood, floating all-LED headlights and a revised one-piece bumper — all integrated to give the Mulsanne a fresh, modern appearance.
© BMW AG
Roll-Royce Ghost EWB
$345,125
It’s hard to think of anything Rolls-Royce as being “entry level” — almost a contradiction in terms — but the Ghost is likely what you’ll buy when you’re ready for your first Rolls-Royce sedan. Almost $100,000 less than the imposing Phantom, the Ghost will still provide that feeling of having arrived. In fact, Rolls-Royce claims the Ghost is the most popular car in the $250,000-plus range. With its iconic grille and famous Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, you are sure to get noticed as you relax in utmost comfort in the extended rear seat.
© Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC
Rolls-Royce Dawn
$346,475
The Dawn is the latest ultra-luxury 4-seat convertible joining the Rolls-Royce lineup. Perhaps Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, the CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, describes the Dawn best: “Quite simply, it is the sexiest Rolls-Royce ever built.” The new Dawn convertible top operates silently, and can be opened or closed in 22 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph. Rolls-Royce engineers refer to the operation as a “silent ballet.” Many 4-seat convertibles accommodate just two people, given their limited rear-seat space. The Dawn makes no compromises — it carries four passengers in the utmost comfort. Powered by Rolls-Royce’s twin-turbo 6.6-liter V12 engine producing 563 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque at a low 1500 rpm, Dawn is Rolls-Royce’s most powerful full 4-seat drophead offered to date. Most Dawns will be individually ordered, and Rolls-Royce Bespoke allows owners to customize virtually every aspect of the car from paint, trim and wheels for the exterior to materials, patterns, textures and colors on the inside.
© McLaren
McLaren 675 LT
$353,600
The new McLaren 675LT was developed with an emphasis on optimized aerodynamics and light weight, along with increased power and track-focused dynamics. The LT designation reflects the long-tail design that improves aerodynamics. Power comes from a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 666 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, teamed with a 7-speed SSG transmission. The 675LT can reach 60 mph in around 2.8 seconds and can stop from that speed in about the same amount of time. It takes only 5.5 seconds to reach 100 mph and top speed is listed at 205 mph. With wider front and rear tracks, as well as lighter, stiffer springs, the 675LT also features an updated suspension designed for a better feedback on the track, but retains the adjustable ProActive Chassis Control for drivability and comfort on the street. Only 500 of this special McLaren will be built, so if you don’t have one on order you’ve unfortunately missed out.
© Ferrari S.p.A
Ferrari F12 tdf
$490,000 (est.)
Paying homage to the legendary Tour de France road race that Ferrari dominated in the 1950s and 60s, the Italian car company introduced this extreme version of the already extreme Ferrari F12. Designed to be equally at home on the track as it is on the road, the F12tdf is powered by a 6.3-liter V12 that exudes a massive 770 horsepower and 520 lb-ft of torque. Performance is as impressive, as expected — 62 mph arrives in just 2.9 seconds, 124 mph in under 8 seconds and top speed is more than 200 mph. The tdf boasts 87 percent more downforce than the standard F12, which combined with considerable weight savings and additional updates makes for impressive road holding and agility. Only 799 tdfs will be built.
© BMW AG
Rolls-Royce Phantom LWB
$492,425
It’s hard to top the commanding presence and status that comes with the Rolls-Royce Phantom. This is the ultimate luxury sedan — one where you can lounge in the rear seat and enjoy the incredibly smooth power of the big V12 engine under that long, iconic hood. Rear doors are rear-hinged for easy access, and each door jamb stores an umbrella should the weather not cooperate with your outing. Each Phantom is hand built with the finest materials — wood veneers are matched perfectly and the leatherwork is hand stitched. Most Phantoms are personalized to the wishes of their owners — Rolls-Royce has a Bespoke team to help you create the perfect vehicle. The Phantom really is one of the best ways of stating “I’ve arrived.” However, the last of this generation Phantom has now left the factory, making way for the next-generation Phantom expected to arrive in the next year or so.
© Mike Meredith
Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce Roadster
$535,500
Sports cars don’t get much more extreme than Lamborghini, and the Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce takes extreme to a whole new level. According to former Lamborghini President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann, “The Superveloce is the purest, most sports-oriented and fastest series production Lamborghini ever.” As the name indicates, this open-top Lambo gets a crazy 750 horsepower from its 6.5-liter normally-aspirated V12 engine, putting all that power to all four wheels. If you happen to be one of the 500 lucky buyers (since 500 will be built), you’ll want to hold on when that right foot goes down — 60 mph comes up in less than 3 seconds and top speed exceeds 217 mph.
© Koenigsegg AG
Koenigsegg Regera
$1,900,000
Designed to offer more luxury than the typical extreme offering from Swedish carmaker Koenigsegg, the Regera features memory-foam power seats, a 9-inch display screen, Wi-Fi connectivity, Apple CarPlay and ambient lighting. But no matter how this car is appointed, the Agera is all about performance. Powering this supercar is a twin-turbo V8 engine teamed with two electric motors via a unique direct-drive system. With more than 700 horsepower from the electric motors alone, combined output exceeds 1500 horsepower and 1475 lb-ft of torque. Weighing just 3,500 pounds, the Regera will reach 60 mph in 2.7 seconds and — even more impressive — almost 250 mph in less than 20 seconds.
© Ferrari S.p.A
Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta
$2,000,000 (est.)
Ever since Ferrari took the wraps off the extreme LaFerrari, there have been rumors that an open-top version was in the works. No longer a rumor, the LaFerrari Aperta made its official debut last fall in Paris. The open-top hypercar maintains the same torsional rigidity as the hardtop and utilizes the same V12 hybrid powerplant that produces an astounding 949 horsepower. Drivers and passengers will need to hold onto their hats in this convertible — 60 mph arrives in under 3 seconds, 120 mph in less than 7 ticks and top speed is close to 220 mph. Only 209 Apertas will be built — 200 for customers and nine that will be kept by Ferrari for shows and other promotional opportunities. Don’t fret too much about the hefty price tag: Ferrari says that all 200 have been sold.
© Pagani Automobili S.p.A
Pagani Huayra BC
$2,500,000
If a Lamborghini or Ferrari is a bit too pedestrian for your tastes, perhaps a Pagani Huayra would best please your palate. And if you’re going for the Pagani, you may as well get the special BC edition. Looking unlike anything else on the road, the Huayra is an extreme sports car that makes use of a unique active aero system — four flaps at the front and back of the car automatically actuate to increase downforce or reduce drag depending on the situation. This special edition was created to honor Pagani’s first customer, Benny Caiola. The BC is an even more extreme version of the Huayra, which says a lot. Its twin-turbocharged V12 engine gets bumped to 789 horsepower, and the car sheds almost 300 pounds. A new gearbox weighs less and drops shift times to a mere 75 milliseconds. Only 20 of these special editions will be produced, and all are reportedly spoken for.
© Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S.
Bugatti Chiron
$2,570,000
When the only car you sell is a 1200-horsepower 250-plus mph exotic sports car, building a successor is a bit of a challenge. Bugatti managed to improve on the original with the brand-new Chiron. Powering the Chiron is a newly-developed 8-liter quad-turbo W16 engine producing 1500 horsepower and an insane 1180 lb-ft of torque, available as low as 2000 rpm. The Chiron uses a new 2-stage turbocharging system that starts with two turbos engaged for quicker acceleration, and at 3700 rpm the other two turbos kick in. Performances numbers are staggering: The Chiron reaches 62 mph in less than 2.5 seconds, 124 mph in around 6.5 seconds and — most amazing of all — 186 mph in less than 13.6 seconds. Good for more than just straight-line speed, this super sports car can achieve 1.5 g in lateral acceleration, and with new high-performance carbon-ceramic brakes the Chiron can reach a full stop from 62 mph in a little more than 100 feet. Only 500 Chirons will be built, and about one-third have already been spoken for.
