Caparo T1 news - Super Brit packs a 500bhp punch - 2006

We get the impression the Caparo T1 will be aimed at a certain type of buyer, with the news that the British supercar will be unveiled at the Monaco Top Marques motor show on April 20.

Of course, Caparo has not roped in just anyone to pull back the covers. Oh no. The manufacturer has rounded up His Serene Highness Prince Albert II.

We'd have done it for a packet of pork scratchings just to get a first glimpse of the 1,000bhp-per-tonne T1.

Tipping the scales at less then 500kg, which is lighter than a Caterham 7, and with a 500bhp V8 engine, the T1 is claimed to be able to destroy 0-60mph in a mere 2.5 seconds.

The British-designed and -built car will also be able to manage 0-100mph in five seconds and top 190mph, while the sophisticated chassis and suspension made from lightweight materials helps the car corner with the same ability as a Le Mans racer.

And before the tree-hugging community start getting their dreadlocks in a twist, the Caparo T1 will also be able to turn in a very respectable 32.5mpg. Try that in a Bugatti Veyron.

Caparo says it has taken firm orders for the car before a production model has even turned a wheel, but it promises the T1 will be the most affordable supercar in the world. Join the queue just behind us.