IF I have a personal favourite in the world of engines it has to be Audi's 4.2 V8.
Built with Nth degree accuracy, this classic power unit packs the punch from heaven, all delivered with a husky rumble.
It is seen probably at its best in the Audi A8 quattro, which combines its power with a heady mix of aluminium construction and four-wheel-drive.
At the wheel of this car recently, the message was certainly driven home that the A8 is probably the most underestimated car in its class. And it does have immense competition from BMW and Mercedes.
However, having driven the competition, there is little that can deliver the exact blend of qualities that is the A8 4.2 quattro.
The reason why this car is so special lies at the heart of its construction - a space-frame consisting of extruded aluminium sections and castings.
It is constructed almost like an aircraft with the aim of mimimum mass and maximum stability.
And don't be fooled into thinking that the aluminium body is less strong than steel. Despite a body weight of just 215 kilograms it has tremendous rigidity.
Then just add the V8, stacks of luxury and Audi's splendid all-wheel-drive quattro system and you are at the wheel of the big car that wants to be a jet fighter. There really is nothing on the market that can quite match it.
As far as pricing is concerned, my test car weighed in at £54,985. At that price it has to be special and it is. This executive express can reach 62 mph from a start in 6.3 seconds, attain an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph and can manage an officially measured average of 23.5 mpg.
For no-compromise driving pleasure in total comfort it cannot be faulted. Massively equipped with the latest electronics it is aimed at the younger sector of the top management and director sector the luxury market serves.
This is truly dynamism all the way.
FAST FACTS
Audi A8 4.2V8 quattro
Price: £54,985
Mechanical: 335bhp, 4,172cc, V8 petrol engine driving all four wheels via 6-spd tiptronic gearbox
Max speed: 155mph
0-62mph: 6.3 secs
Combined mpg: 23.5
Insurance group: 19
CO2 emissions: 288g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 12yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint