There are literally dozens of new cars launched every year, but a new supercar is something very different. Sure, there are basic transportation necessities like the Ford Fiesta or Honda Civic, but a supercar is truly something special. Although they're ridiculously expensive to buy and maintain, supercars are perhaps the reason why many of us became interested in cars to begin with. So we've picked out the best supercars that had their big debuts in 2012. More than likely, they too will inspire a new generation of car lovers everywhere.
Lamborghini Aventador Roadster
Like its coupe counterpart that debuted last year, the Aventador Roadster is powered a 6.5-liter V12 that produces nearly 700 horsepower. But unlike its predecessor, the soft-topped Murcielago Roadster, the Aventador Roadster's roof consists of two carbon fiber panels that weigh just 13 lbs each. Once removed, they are stored in the front luggage compartment. The Roadster's top speed is identical to that of the coupe - an incredible 349 km/h - despite some added weight. Total cost off the lot: just a shade under $450,000.
Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
Our mouths dropped to the floor when Ferrari revealed its all-new F12 Berlinetta at Geneva last March. Smaller, lighter and more powerful than its 599 GTB predecessor, the F12 is also more fuel efficient thanks to its new engine and state-of-the-art construction and components. Powered by a new 6.3-liter V12 that produces 730 horsepower and 509 lb-ft of torque, it can blast from 0-100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds and has a top speed of 340 km/h. If you think the F12 Berlinetta is incredible, then wait until 2013 when Ferrari reveals is highly anticipated Enzo successor.
SRT Viper
This is the car that shouldn't have happened but did. Despite all of the financial troubles that parent company Chrysler has had, those involved with the creation of the SRT Viper knew how important it is for the automaker's prestige factor alone. Their work resulted in a world-class American supercar. Powered by an 8.4-liter V10 rated at 640 horsepower, the new Viper retains the traditional six-speed manual, but offers modern bits such as stability control and carbon-fiber construction for the clamshell hood. Its $97k base price isn't cheap, but it's still a bargain in the supercar world.
Aston Martin Vanquish
We were always impressed by the Aston Martin DBS, as was a certain fictional British secret agent in many of his recent films. But times change and so does the competition, and the DBS soon became outdated. Aston Martin's answer is the Vanquish, a 6.0-liter V12-powered British supercar that produces 565 horsepower. Its gorgeous new body is constructed of carbon fiber and the interior is once again a more luxurious setting than what's found in most people's homes. As always, something like this doesn't come cheap, with a base price just under $280k.
Mercedes SLS AMG GT Black Series
Mercedes' beautiful SLS AMG gullwing coupe recently became a little bit more interesting, to say the least. Revealed only in November at the LA Auto Show, the SLS AMG Black Series is the one we've been waiting for. Power comes courtesy of an improved 6.2-liter V8 that boasts 622 horsepower instead of the standard coupe's 563. It can go from 0-100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 315 km/h. Carbon fiber is the lightweight material of choice in its construction and the interior's multimedia system has been removed in order to further cut weight. Pricing starts around $200k.
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