Porsche achieved a publicity coup by arranging for its Carrera GT concept to be driven up the Champs Elysee early on the morning of press day at the show. According to Porsche insiders, the model could go into production in 2003.

Dr Wendelin Wiedeking, Porsche chief executive, described the concept as “an outstanding expression of technical skill and performance so typical of our engineers”. The Carrera GT has a 5.5-litre, V10 engine developing 558bhp and a top speed of more than 180mph.