McLaren’s devilish monster

"We knew it'd be quick. We now know how sensationally quick, in every way," says Paul Horrell on Top Gear's website. McLaren has unveiled its 675 LT a "lighter, harder and more powerful" version of its 650S.

The supercar maker says its new model is "fully track-focused" but also road legal so you get a combination of "devilish" performance and niceties such as a multimedia system, air-conditioning, and carpets. The 3.8-litre V8 engine has been overhauled to deliver more power and torque. That means you'll be rocketed from rest to 124mph in under eight seconds and onto a top speed of over 200mph.

McLaren promises an "electrifying, engaging and visceral driving experience", says James Mills in The Sunday Times. That sounds likely, given the performance figures, and will make the car a good proposition for drivers who like to put their cars through their paces on the race track. The McLaren will be hand-assembled in Woking, Surrey, for anyone who's got £260,000 to hand.

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Price: £260,000Engine: 3,799cc, V8, turboPower: 666bhpTorque: 516 lb ftTop speed: 205mph0-62mph: 2.9 seconds

The budget alternative

I wonder if we in the First World haven't gone mad, says Jeremy Clarkson in The Sunday Times. I drove a Porsche 911 GTS the other day, and it was good. I was also taken with the Bentley Continental. But what's the point of them? Because no car on the road is as good as a VW Golf. "This is a fact. There's no room for debate It's that simple."

Or is it? Because for about £9,000 less than the Golf GTI, you could have a Ford Fiesta ST Zetec S Red Edition instead. And that is more fun to drive, says Clarkson. More fun "than anything that's been fitted with four wheels". Of course, supercars are stupendous, but the little Ford is in the same league "it really is". If you had any sense, you'd forgo the McLarens of this world, save your money and buy a Fiesta.

When it comes to fun on a budget, the Fiesta takes some beating, agrees AutoExpress. By combining sharp handling with eager performance,this little Ford "guarantees drivingthrills whatever the occasion". It's also sleekly styled and has impressively low running costs.

Price: £16,145Engine: 999cc, 3 cyl turboPower: 138bhpTorque: 155 lb ftTop speed: 125mph0-62mph:9.0 secs

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