Pinin-up model

PITSTOP

This is what Pininfarina wants the next Ferrari to be. Called the Ferrari Superamerica, this concept will be unveiled at the Los Angeles and Detroit Auto Shows in January 2005.

Derived from the 575M Maranello, the Superamerica is a full-blown 12-cylinder seduction machine. The 5748cc V12 develops 540 prancing horses at 7250 revs and 60 kgm of torque at 5250 rpm, which can catapult this concept to a top speed of 320 kph.

While the powerplant is definitely the highlight, Pininfarina says that its innovative roof is no less a defining feature. The electric rotating roof movement of the Superamerica transforms it into a convertible in 10 seconds flat "� claimed to be the quickest in the world.

The electric roof, badged Revocromicro, uses a unique rearward rotation movement and Saint-Gobain's electrochromic technology that allows the driver to decide how much sunlight he wants in the car. That's a cool gadget to have in your car, all right, but we'll take a Superamerica even without it, thank you.

Avant one

You know that the new Audi A6 is being readied for an Indian launch in January 2005 with a special 218 bhp 3000cc V6. Here's something they could consider for our country.

Early this month, Audi introduced the estate version of the fabulous A6, the A6 Avant (yes, estates are cleverly sub-branded by the German automaker).

For Audi, estates mean big business. For instance, Audi has sold three times as many estates as Mercedes or BMW between 1997 and 2002 in Germany.

Besides, for any given model, Audi's split between saloons and estates is equal, compared to its arch-rivals, who hover around 25 per cent for estates.

And with Audi's estates offering great looks with immense space, they claim that their Avant buyer is 10 years younger and wealthier than the average sedan buyer. Looking at the A6 Avant, we're sure Audi will take the estate game a few notches upwards.

The A6 Avant's loading area is fitted with plenty of thoughtful touches to make sure your stuff fits well in and is extremely versatile and flexible too.

At launch, the newest Avant will come with three petrol and two TDI engines, including the 335 bhp 4200cc V8 petrol and a brilliant 225 bhp 3000cc V6 TDI. Interested? Pester Audi when they officially land up here.