Spain is well known as a holiday destination, for its cuisine and culture, but not for producing supercars. GTA Motor would like to change that view. We first saw renderings of its car back in 2008 and last Thursday in Monaco the Spano was officially unveiled.

While it may not have the brand recognition of some rivals it certainly has the right credentials in other areas. Power comes from a supercharged 8.3-litre V10 with 769bhp. That is enough for a 0-62mph time claimed to be less than three seconds and a 217mph top speed. To slow from those speeds six-piston callipers grip carbon ceramic brake disks and the structure includes exotic materials like Kevlar and titanium.

According to the manufacturer, the Spano's interior has 'a sporting look which also renders luxury and comfort'. It will suit those who like plenty of carbon fibre and leather. The driver should not be cramped either, with accommodation designed for those over two metres tall. Information is conveyed by LCD screen, rather than conventional instruments - allowing the layout to be customised - while another LCD display takes the place of the rear-view mirror.

The company plans to sell cars around the world. Although with production limited to 99 units the GTA Spano will never be a common sight.

John Lambert - 19 Apr 2010