Scaffolding never went this fast.

Make: Ariel

Model: Atom

Lowdown: Originally conceived as part of a design project by a Coventry University student, this machine is a great piece of engineering. Powered by a 300 hp supercharged Honda engine, the ultralight Atom surges from a standstill to sixty in 2.7 seconds. That's almost as fast as a Bugatti Veyron, which will do so in 2.5 seconds. The Atom may look like a bunch of scaffolding with two seats and an engine strapped on the back -- which won't win much points from the ladies -- but that simplicity is what makes this little monster so good on the road. Also, a base price of $65k for the US version makes face-ripping acceleration and cornering affordable to us all. If you need help convincing the spouse, the second seat can be used to carry groceries, so running errands will become something you'll be begging to do.

Verdict: Fast!

4.7 seconds for $24k

Make: Subaru

Model: Impreza WRX

Lowdown: Heres one example of where racing experience really translates into increased performance on the road. The flat-four turbocharged power plant in this rally driver's dream produces plenty of pull when you put the pedal to the metal. Now what does that mean for us? When that streetrace moves from simply dragging greens to something a little more intense -- The Fast and the Furious, anyone? -- you'll be able to hang with the best of them. All-wheel-drive brings you all the grip you could ever ask for and delivers 0-60 times around 4.7 seconds. That's rediculously fast. A $130k Mercedes sl63 amg does it in 4.5 seconds. The Subaru costs $24k. Wow.

Verdict: Fast!

The epitome of greatness.

Make: Ferrari

Model: F430

Lowdown: I just plain love this car. According to Jeremy Clarkson from Top Gear, everything about it is just, "perfect." Built to thrive on windy back country roads, there's a reason this machine is the most popular with lottery winners. Carrying the Ferrari racing pedigree, this isn't just a wild car built for a crazy purpose. Every bit of the f430 was carefully engineered to create the ultimate sports car. The only question now is, are you going to go for the $30,000 carbon ceramic brake option?

Verdict: Fast!