Is the Cougatti Just the Purtiest 2002 Mercury Cougar you ever did see?

Sure, most people would love to have a Bugatti Veyron; sadly, at over a million bucks a pop we're talking a vehicle that's slightly out of reach for most consumers. Thankfully, one man and eBay have rectified this issue with something we'll call a Cougatti (or Bougar).

Based on a 112,000-mile 2002 Mercury Cougar with a V6 and automatic transmission, this one-of-one Cougatti has a starting bid of $89,000 and no takers as of this writing. Potential buyers get all the body work, 20-inch wheels, angel eye HID headlights, LED tails, two gas caps (one functional), and power windows/mirrors.

No pics of the interior just yet, but the seller says it is "in progress" and "very close to being ready for upholstery".

Is this cross-bred creature a crime against humanity or a bargain basement show car? Leave your comments down below.

By Phil Alex

Link: eBay

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Forbes' Top 10 List of the Most Expensive Cars in the World

For most people a $50,000 car is well out of reach, while others happily spend double or triple of that amount on a ride. However, even those enthusiasts might not be so keen to whip out their checkbooks when confronted with the price tag of these vehicles featured in a special list compiled by Forbes.

These are the most expensive cars in the world, usually bought by the kind of people who don’t even break a sweat amidst the worst economic crisis. Forbes' list in not without its flaws as the publication added two vehicles (the Enzo's successor and the upcoming Pagani Zonda C9) that have yet to be revealed, let alone be priced. Nevertheless, you can check out the complete list of exclusive toys for the real tycoons after the jump.

10. Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe – Price: $447,000

You can’t go wrong with a Rolls-Royce Phantom, but if you really want something special, than opting for the Drophead Coupe is a no brainer. Powered by the same 453-horsepower V12, the open top version with its optional teak deck made of 30 different pieces of fine-grain wood, is in a league of its own, just like the people who can afford it. Even so, it’s the least expensive car in the list.

9. Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SuperVeloce – Price: $455,400

A very different beast compared to the Drophead Coupe, the Lamborghini LP670-4 SuperVeloce is the swan song of the Murcielago series. Boasting a 6.5-liter V12 engine, capable of 670 hp, the four-wheel drive Italian supercar can reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in less than 3.2 seconds. Owner of this beast not only have to be rich, but capable as well, especially if they're going to specify the car with the six-speed manual transmission.

8. Ferrari SA Aperta – Price: $520,000 (estimated)

Showcased at this year’s Paris Auto Show, the SA Aperta (aperta means “open” in Italian) was Ferrari’s way of celebrating the 80th anniversary of Pininfarina. Based on the 599 GTO, the SA Aperta has a removable soft-top roof and features the same 670 hp V12 engine. With a 0-to-60 time of just 3.5 seconds, the sexiest 599 is quite a performer and a rare car, as only 80 will be built.

7. LeBlanc Mirabeau – Price: $728,000

The LeBlanc Mirabeau is a pureblooded Swiss racecar, which happens to be street-legal at the same time. Wealthy playboys aren’t going to be overwhelmed by luxury with this one, as leather and other comfort features cost extra. This machine is all about speed and handling, relying on a supercharged V8 for power, that delivers 700 hp and 850 Nm of torque.

6. SSC Ultimate Aero – Price: $750,000

Considered by many a Bugatti Veyron-killer, the SSC Aero Ultimate can reach a top speed of 273 mph (439 km/h), thanks to its 1,287 hp V8 engine. Unlike the LeBlanc Mirabeau, this beast comes with quite a long standard equipment list. Many body parts are made from carbon fiber, but the lightweight material has been also used in the cabin.

5. Ferrari F70 – Price: $870,000 [Estimated]

For some reason, the fifth place in Forbes' list is taken by a car that may be anticipated but has yet to be introduced or announced; the successor to the Ferrari Enzo. Forbes names the car F70 and says it is expected in 2012 with an estimated price of $870,000 - we have no idea how they came up with this price. The vehicle shown in the picture is Ferrari's Millechili concept.

4. Pagani Zonda C9 – Price: $1.3 million [Estimated]

The Pagani Zonda C9 may not be out yet, but it has been scooped and even teased by the company. Believed to feature a 700 hp engine from Merc's AMG division that won’t be a derivative of the V12 used for the SL65 Black Series, the upcoming Pagani C9 will have gullwing doors and more rounded body panels. Only 40 units will be built, each featuring a high-tech carbon-titanium chassis, almost 4,000 new parts compared to the outgoing Zonda and specially developed Pirelli tires. Forbes estimates that the car will be priced at around $1.3 million.

3. Maybach Landaulet – Price: $1.405 million

Initially presented at the 2008 Detroit Motor Show, the Maybach Landaulet is based on the 62S and it has a soft top that offers rear passengers an unhindered feeling of space. Powered by a twin turbo V12 engine, the Landaulet is a luxury apartment on wheels, complete with refrigerator, folding tables and two champagne flutes in hand-polished 925 sterling silver.

2. Koenigsegg Agera – Price: $1.5 million (estimated)

With a body made out of carbon fiber and aluminum, the 910 hp Koenigsegg Agera can accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 3.1 seconds. It’s a proper supercar and then some, as the Swedes claim it offers the most luggage space in this segment. Not the highest priority when buying a vehicle of this kind, but for one and a half million dollars, it's a welcome plus.

1. Bugatti Veyron Super Sport – Price: $2.6 million

It’s hard to pinpoint the raison d’etre of the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport, given that the “stock” Veyron is also ridiculously fast reaching a top speed of 407 km/h (253 mph). True, the Super Sport did reach a Guinness World of Records-certified top speed of 431 km/h or 268 mph, however the car shipped to clients are restricted to 415 km/h (258 mph). So, you have to pay a hefty premium over the less capable Veyrons (the Bugatti 16.4 Grand Sport costs $1.86 million and the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 $1.59 million) for a mere 8 km/h (5 mph) increase in top speed . But in the rich man’s world, prestige is very important, and we’re quite sure that billionaires will happily fork out the dough for the 1,200 horsepower supercar.

Is a car worth that much money? It’s a tough question to answer, but you can voice your opinion in the comments section below, as we’re curious to see which one would you choose.

By Csaba Daradics

Source: Forbes

Bugatti Veyron Super Sport Debuts, Will Hit 10mph Less Top Speed than Record

Bugatti showed their stuff to the public at the Concours d'Elegance, when they brought out the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport.  The new world's fastest car was seen wearing blue colored carbon fiber body panels during the weekend event when it also served as the pace car for the Bugatti Rally at the Laguna Seca Raceway.

In the presence of the German TUV and officials from Guinness World Records, the Bugatti Super Sport was tested on the VW circuit in Ehra-Lessien, where it managed an average speed of 431 km/h. At first attempt, the Bugatti has reached a top speed of 427.933 km/h and on the way back recorded a speed of 434.211 km/h. TUV and Guinness World Records have calculated an average speed of 431.072 km/h (268 mph).

Bugatti says the consumer vehicle will have identical specs, but the limitation was necessary to protect the car's tires.  Its engine is tuned to deliver 1,200 hp (882 kW), a 20 percent gain over the already massive Veyron 16.4, and up to 1,500 Nm (1106 lb-ft) of torque.  The extra power comes from bigger turbochargers and intercoolers, which meant the chassis needed to be adjusted to cope with the added power and speed.

Besides the larger air intakes at the front the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport has received a series of redesigned components at the rear end, which are both meant to improve aerodynamics and distinguish it from the previous version.




Press Release

Bugatti Presents Veyron 16.4 Super Sport to Public

World record car to be pace car at Monterey Historic Races

Further versions to be seen at The Quail and the Concours d'Elegance at Pebble Beach Molsheim/Monterey, August 13, 2010 - On the 3rd of July, the new Veyron 16.4 Super Sport achieved a new landspeed world record with 431, 072 km/h (268 mph) on Volkswagen Group's proving ground at Ehra-Lessien, close to the Wolfsburg headquarters. Bugatti presents this new car for the first time to the public at the three events The Quail, Monterey Historic Races
at Laguna Seca, and on the Concept Lawn of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. On Saturday, Bugatti's Pilote Officiel will drive in the world record car as a pace car for the historic Bugatti Rally at Laguna Seca.

The climax of the Veyron series: the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport

In the past, had a model been especially popular or highly successful in races, Ettore Bugatti's customers often pushed the master to tease out a few more horsepower for their future car. Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. was in a similar situation when their existing customers asked the company, not only to design their "next model" optically different but also to create a sportier version with a more extreme driving experience. The result is an extremely powerful car with 1,200-hp (882 kW) and a maximum torque of 1,500 Newton meters, offering experienced drivers a whole new dimension of excitement. Top speed is limited to 415 km/h, to protect the tyres, but the specifications of the Super Sport will be identical to the world record car. The first five Super Sports to come off the production line will constitute a special series, with the same configuration as the land speed record car.

The Super Sport is a result of the continuous development of the classic 1,001-hp Bugatti Veyron 16.4, launched in 2005. This model offers a stunning set of specifications, such as the twin clutch gearbox with seven speeds, the precise driving performance and excellent stability when braking and accelerating.

Constant development over the past 10 years has lead to advances, which have enabled the engineers at Bugatti S.A.S. to develop the Veyron to reach new dimensions. Every modification is designed to produce greater performance and a more agile ride. Larger turbochargers and bigger intercoolers have been used to increase the power of the eight litre, 16-cylinder engine. The chassis has been extensively tweaked to remain safe, in order to cope with the additional power and increased speed. Revisions include a slightly raised main-spring travel, stronger stabilisers, and new shock absorbers with a complex architecture similar to which used in racing. This gives the car a more precise control of the wheels and the car as a whole. With lateral acceleration results of up to 1.4 g and improved interaction between the tyres and the intelligent all-wheel drive system, the Super Sport offers perfect handling and even more powerful acceleration.

The body has been fine-tuned to improve aerodynamic efficiency and maintain perfect balance in every situation, while the new fibre structure of the all-carbon monocoque ensures maximum torsion rigidity and passive safety - at a reduced weight. The skin is made entirely of carbon-fibre composites, and the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport is available in full body clear-lacquered exposed carbon on request.

Dynamic exterior

Every detail of this car, and not just its use of advanced motorsport technology, stems back to the pioneering spirit of company founder Ettore Bugatti. This brilliant designer came from a family of artists, and his philosophy was always to combine mechanical perfection and exterior beauty. This ethos remains alive and well at the company today, where every modification to the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport serves to coax greater performance from the car.

The Super Sport's flat, elongated silhouette distinguishes itself from the standard car. Rather than scoops above the engine, the 16-cylinder engine is now fed air from two NACA ducts integrated into the roof. The front air intakes have been expanded and reshaped, with the lower one extending elegantly around the sides to the wheel arch. The revised rear end looks sportier due to the double diffuser and a centrally arranged exhaust system.

Bugatti has a tradition of making super sport versions of successful models, usually with racing chassis and supercharged engines. These cars were considered as true racing machines for diehard Bugatti devotees. The most successful versions was the type 55 and type 57S; with around forty of each built.

Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. has now sold 260 Veyrons and 35 Grand Sports, of which 249 Veyrons and 22 Grand Sports had been delivered. The Super Sport will begin production this autumn at Molsheim along with the Veyron and the Grand Sport. The first five cars - known as the World Record Edition - are in a special black exposed carbon and orange finish, and have already been sold.

Bugatti has unveiled the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport [Video]

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport achieved a new landspeed world record for production cars. the Veyron Super Sport set an average top speed rating of 431,072 km/h (268 mph). Piloted by Bugatti test driver Pierre Henri Raphanel, with German inspection officials (TÜV) keeping watch, the car topped out once at 428 km/h and second time at 434 km/h. A representative of the Guinness Book of Records was on hand to witness the new world record.

With output bumped up from 1,001 horsepower to 1,200 horsepower, torque swelling to 1,106 pound-feet and a revised aerodynamic kit, Raphanel managed runs of 265.9 and 269.8 mph for an average terminal velocity of 267.81 mph and a new world record for a production car.

The Veyron 16.4 Super Sport comes with four enlarged turbochargers and bigger intercoolers that have been used to boost the power of the 16-cylinder engine to a total of 1200 HP, the chassis

Out go the large overhead air scoops, replaced by deep air ducts. The front air intakes are wider, the rear diffuser is larger and the double exhausts are now big enough for large animals to hibernate in. And get this: Bugatti has played with the engine to develop even more power.
The headline figures: 1183bhp, 1106lb ft, 268mph

The new Super Sport, which Bugatti plans to produce in a limited run of no more than 30 units, is set to be the last hurrah for the Veyron 16.4, taking overall production of the flamboyant, quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter 16-cylinder supercar to 300 units since its introduction in 2005.




Press Release

Land speed world record with the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport

The new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport takes production sports cars to a whole new dimension

Wolfsburg/Molsheim, July 4, 2010 - on a beautiful sunny day at 25 degrees the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport achieved a new landspeed world record for production cars, on the proving grounds of the Volkswagen Group at Ehra-Lessien (nearby its headquarters at Wolfsburg). In the presence of the German Technical Inspection Agency (TÜV) and a representative of Guinness Book of Records the Super Sport achieved an average top speed of 431 km/h.

Saturday, 2 pm - Bugatti's Pilote Officiel Pierre Henri Raphanel puts his helmet and gloves on, pulls the safety belts tight whilst the engineers check the car a very last time: tyre pressure, temperature, all systems go. Then the orange black Super Sport crosses the light barrier, from now on the time will be taken, within one hour the car has to drive from South to North and then in the opposite direction. No one but the driver is allowed to touch the car during this time. The tension rises. A few minutes later we can hear from the left side the sound of a starting jumbo jet coming closer towards us. First we perceive the headlights of the Veyron, then we can recognize the shape of the car, a loud wooosh.... and Raphanel dashes in top speed past us. The GPS-tachometer stops at 427, 933 km/h. Now the same procedure from the opposite direction. This time the car reaches 434, 211 km/h. As average top speed the representatives of the "TÜV"and Guinness generate a value of 431, 072 km/h (268 mph). This even hit Bugatti's engineering team by surprise.

"We took it that we would reach an average value of 425 km/h," explains Bugatti's chief engineer Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber, "but the conditions today were perfect and allowed even more."

The climax of the Veyron series: the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport

Had a model been especially popular or highly successful in races, Ettore Bugatti's customers often pushed the master to tease out of the engine a few horsepower more for their future car. Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. had been in a similar situation when their existing customers asked the companyto not only design their second model optically differently but to also create a version with a sportierand more extreme driving experience. The result is a car with a uniquely high performance of1,200-hp (882 kW) offering experienced drivers a whole new dimension of excitement, with a maximum torque of 1,500 Newton metres and a limited top speed of 415 km/h (to protect them tyres) but, the technique of the Super Sport is identical to the record car. The first five Super Sports to come off the production line will constitute a special series of their own, with the same configuration as the landspeed record car.

The Super Sport is a consequent of the further development of the classic exclusive 1,001-hp Bugatti Veyron 16.4, launched in 2005. This model offers a stunning set of specifications, such as the twin clutch gearbox with seven speeds, the extraordinarily precise driving performance in bends and excellent stability when braking and accelerating.

Continuous work in extreme performance ranges lead to constantly new conclusions, which enabled the engineers at Bugatti to develop the Veyron into a direction in which the driver can reach new dimensions. Every modification is designed to produce an even more powerful car for an agile ride. Four enlarged turbochargers and bigger intercoolers have been used to boost the power of the 16-cylinder engine, and the chassis has been extensively redesigned to maintain safety at extreme speed - thanks to slightly raised main-spring travel, stronger stabilisers, and new shock absorbers with a complex architecture originally developed for racing cars. This gives noticeably more precise control of the wheels and the car as a whole. With lateral acceleration of up to 1.4 G and improved interaction between the tyres and the intelligent all-wheel drive system, the Super Sport offers perfect handling and even more powerful acceleration of 1,500 Newton metres on corner exits.

The body has been fine-tuned to improve aerodynamic efficiency and maintain perfect balance in every situation, while the new fibre structure of the all-carbon monocoque ensures maximum torsion rigidity and passive safety - at reduced weight. The skin is made entirely of carbon-fibre composites, and the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport is available in 100 per-cent clear-lacquered exposed carbon on request.

Dynamic exterior

Every detail of this car, and not just its use of advanced motorsport technology, harks back to the pioneering spirit of company founder Ettore Bugatti. This brilliant designer came from a family of artists, and his philosophy was always to combine mechanical perfection and exterior beauty. This ethos remains alive and well at the company, and the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport is wholly unmistakeable, with every external modification serving to coax greater performance from the car.

The Super Sport's flat, elongated silhouette is immediately recognisable. The 16-cylinder engine gets its air from two NACA ducts integrated into the roof, rather than from scoops above the engine. The front air intakes have been expanded and reshaped, with the lower one extending elegantly around the sides to the wheel arch. The revised back looks sportier due to the double diffuser and a centrally arranged exhaust system.

Bugatti has a tradition of making super-sport versions of successful models, usually with racing chassis and supercharged engines. These cars were considered as true racing machines for diehard Bugatti devotees. The most successful were the type 55 and type 57S; only around forty of each were built.

Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. has sold 260 Veyrons and 35 Grand Sports by now, of which 249 Veyrons and 22 Grand Sports had been delivered. The Super Sport will begin production this autumn at Molsheim along with the Veyron and the Grand Sport. The first five cars - known as the World Record Edition – are in a special black exposed carbon and orange finish and have already been sold.

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport will appear for the first time in public in California at the Pebble Beach Concours weekend in mid-August and will be featured at The Quail, Monterey Historic Races at Laguna Seca and on the concept lawn of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.