With its 16-cylinder quad-turbocharged engine and four-wheel drive, the 2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport may well be the most sophisticated production vehicle of all time. Most of the components tucked beneath its hood are ingenious innovations that were formerly deemed possible only by visionaries.

It is immediately recognizable by its high windscreen and stylized daytime running lights. Classified as "open-topped," it has a removable and lightweight transparent polycarbonate roof.

Boasting a maximum speed of 225 mph with the roof removed, the Veyron reaches velocities that would literally lift the car off the ground if it weren't for its ingenious aerodynamics. Adjusting the back spoiler, reducing ground clearance, and opening and closing the lids all contribute to the perfect balance between propulsion and downforce.

Such a super sports car may not seem to be brought to a halt easily, but the Veyron's ceramic brakes slow it down faster than it can accelerate. While it takes this exceptional car only 2.5 seconds to go from 0 to 100 mph, it needs even less time - a mere 2.3 seconds - to come to a standstill from 100 mph.

The doors of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport are made of carbon fiber and house an integrated longitudinal beam. In the event of an accident, this transfers the load from the A to the B pillar, thereby dissipating impact energy. Furthermore, the two redesigned air intakes for the 16-cylinder mid-engine now feature 10 centimeter- wide carbon fiber elements to offer protection in the event of a roll.

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport has been dubbed "the most outrageous car ever built." The production run for 2008 was only 150 units. Their base prices ranged from $1,700,000 - $2,400,000.

• Wheelbase, inches: 106.3
• Weight, lbs: 4,162
• Length, inches: 174.2
• Width, inches: 77.9
• Height, inches: 47
• Production: 150
• Base price: $2,128,230

• Type: Quad-Turbocharged W16
• Displacement: 7.993 liter / 487.8 cu in
• Fuel system: Fuel Injection
• Compression ratio: 9.0:1
• Horsepower @ rpm: 986 hp @ 6000 rpm
• Suspension: multi-link, coil springs, anti-roll bar
• Torque @ rpm: 922 ft lbs @ 2200 rpm
• Transmission: Semi Automatic

• Top Speed, mph: 252 mph
• 0-60 mph, sec: 2.5 seconds