Paris show: Carrera GT grabs the limelight

PORSCHE sprung a surprise at the Paris motor show by unveiling a stunning concept dubbed the Carrera GT.

Although yet to be officially confirmed, Porsche CEO Mr Wendelin Wiedeking said the roadster concept may spawn a production version in 2003.

European sources suggest the production Carrera GT would cost more than $630,000 in its home market. This would put the car up against the likes of the imminent Mercedes-Benz SLR.

Motivation for the car comes from a mid-mounted, normally-aspirated, 10-cylinder engine that generates in excess of 415kW.

The massive straight-line grunt is complemented by Porsche's all-wheel drive system - which should keep tyre-frying antics in check even with lead-footed drivers on board.

A video monitor at the show displayed the car hitting a top speed of 341km/h.

Visually, the Carrera GT appears to draw its inspiration from the Boxster and Lotus Elise.

The streamlined nose bears a strong resemblance to the Boxster and current 911, while the twin fairings behind the seats are reminiscent of the Elise.

The odds of the car going into production appear good as Mr Wiedeking said it would take just 500 sales over the entire model life to justify building it.

If the Carrera GT gets the green light, it would give Porsche a four-pronged model line-up. The other models are the Boxster, 911 and Cayenne sport-utility, due in 2002.