BUGATTI VEYRON 16.4 253MPH

It was as if Volkswagen Group boss Ferdinand Piëch had plucked the Veyron’s target numbers out of thin air: 1000PS (986bhp), a 250mph-plus top speed and price of ¤1 million.

At launch, its W16 engine not only made the requisite 1000PS but also an eye-watering 922lb ft of torque, resulting in a top speed of 253mph.

Ten radiators had to be used to cool the 8.0-litre engine, which was left without a cover to release more hot air. In order to deploy all that power, a four-wheel drive system was created with a complex Haldex differential working on the front axle and a limited-slip differential at the rear.

Strangely, the Veyron’s cabin is the least intimidating of all our cars so far. Push the start button, select drive, accelerate away at a normal rate and I could be driving a slightly larger Volkswagen Golf. Wake all four turbos, though, and it sounds like a Boeing 747 on full thrust.

After some initial lag, the Veyron’s 1888kg is no match for the monstrous torque, and as I head towards turn one, the speed it reaches is nearsuicidal. Thankfully, the brakes are equally stupefying, and I get to live another day. Well, at least until I try the Bugatti Chiron…

TECH SPEC

Engine W16, 7993cc, all-alloy, DOHC per bank, four turbochargers, electronic fuel injection Power 987bhp at 4200rpm Torque 922lb ft at 2200rpm Gerabox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic, 4WD 0-62mph 2.5sec Top speed 253mph Price new £925,000 (£1,469,640)