2012 Lamborghini Aventador

The Lamborghini Aventador replaces the Murcielago, and those are some pretty big shoes to fill. As one of the world's preeminent supercars, the Murcielago was devastatingly quick and, despite its demure-for-Lambo looks, loud and brash. The Aventador takes a big step forward, technologically speaking: its seven-speed transmission uses only one clutch but is lighter than comparable dual-clutch setups, and it snaps off gearshifts like a machine gun. Power comes from a 6.5-liter V-12, which manages to be cleaner and more efficient than the old engine while amping up the power to a mind-blowing 691 horses. The Aventador uses carbon-fiber construction throughout its body (the passenger cell is one solid tub of carbon fiber), which keeps weight down despite the car's hulking size. With styling reminiscent of the Sesto Elemento concept car, the Aventador draws visual comparisons to a jet fighter, but it could draw performance comparisons, too. Lamborghini claims that the Aventador can go from 0 to 60 mph in less than three seconds and tops out in excess of 200 mph, putting it in an elite club of supercars. The Aventador is the ultimate metamorphosis of the Italian sports car. For those with the money to spend, having an Aventador in the garage is a one-way ticket to a world of speed and striking looks.