The Most Expensive Cars In The World

Forbes has unveiled its list of the most expensive cars of 2012. The magazine “scoured price lists from well-known manufacturers like Bugatti, Rolls-Royce and Lamborghini, and from lesser-known companies like Leblanc and Shelby Super Cars” to produce its annual report. Topping the list at $2.6 million is the Bugatti Veyron Supersport. According to the French automaker, the economic downturn of the last few years has not impacted their discerning clientele, Ferrari’s 599XX came in second place at $2 million.Two Scandinavian models finished 3rd and 4th, Denmark’s Zenvo ST1 at $1.8 million and Sweden’s Koenigsegg Agera R at $1.7 million. Even though Daimler canceled production of the Maybach Laundolet for 2013, its popularity with celebrities like Madonna and Jay Z has kept the car in the list for 2012. The new addition to this year’s most expensive cars is Italy’s Pagani Huayra, which sells for $1.3 million. The Porsche 918 Spyder rounds up the Top 10 at $845,000.

Owning one of these cars may sound capricious, and one may ask, why the exorbitant prices? “A combination of rare and high-performance materials used—carbon fiber, silver trimmings, ceramic brakes, exotic wood—extraordinary tuning, and exclusively low production numbers” are some of the reasons according to Forbes. But this is not all, buyers should be aware of maintenance costs, waiting lists and other expenses that come along with the new toy. For example the Ferrari 599 X is made to order by invite only and the Zenvo ST1 must be shipped to Denmark for any major repairs. The Pagani Huayra is made from carbo-titanium, but it will not be available in the US until 2013.

If you have can afford one these automotive jewels or know a Russian billionaire who does, chances are you would not mind the wait or the price, for the pleasure of seeing heads turn every time you step on the pavement.