Koenigsegg CCX

Koenigsegg introduced its CCX hypercar to the world at the 2006 Geneva Auto Show. The CCX ships with a massively powerful dual-supercharged 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 806 hp and 678 lb-ft of torque. In order to achieve those impressive figures, Koenigsegg designed and built the motor themselves. Performance is on the comical side of baffling with 0-60 mph happening in 3.2 seconds and an unverified top speed of 259 mph. More impressive perhaps, is the CCX's ability to go from 0-186-0 in 29 seconds.

Made in Sweden, the CCX differs from some of its European counterparts such as the Pagani Zonda by being intended for the American market. As a result, the Koenigsegg CCX runs on readily available 91 octane gas, meets tough U.S. crash regulations and tougher California emissions standards. Owners can expect about 14 miles per gallon in mixed driving. And unlike cars built without the U.S. in mind, the CCX can take an American regulation license plate.

Out of either a concern for the U.S. market or the planet, in 2008 Koenigsegg introduced the "green" CCXR. Not only does the Koenigsegg CCXR run on corn-based E85 (or E100), but the environmentally friendly hypercar is actually more powerful than the normal car, producing a Bugatti Veyron rivaling 1,018 hp and 782 lb-ft of torque. And if Koenigsegg's top speed claim is ever verified, the CCXR would be the fastest production car in the world. A Koenigsegg CCX was clocked at 241 mph, breaking the long time record of the McLaren F1 as the fastest production car in the world before being dethroned by the 253 mph Bugatti Veyron.

The CCX's price tag, like its power and performance, is simply staggering. Depending on the exchange rate you can expect to pay around $550,000. Still, compared to competition in the hypercar realm the Koenigsegg CCX is a relative bargain. Both the Bugatti Veyron and Lamborghini Reventon retial for $1 million more. Even the 257 mph SSC Ultimate Aero TT costs $100,000 more. And yes, buying cars that cost as much as nice houses is ultimately silly.

We also find the Koenigsegg CCX to be beautiful, elegant in a way that other uber-sports cars are crudely aggressive. It never screams, "Look at me!" the way certain Italian cars do. Blame it on inherent Scandinavian restraint, though it's a welcome change of supercar pace in our book. Good looks, mega-performance, bragging rights and gas mileage on par with a Cadillac Escalade, the Koenigsegg CCX offers the extremely wealthy car enthusiast a lot to love. If you have the means, by all means...