The Swiss Army Knives of our Lives

Peter W. Frey

Cars are the Swiss Army knives of our lives; they get us from A to B, they convey social status, they provide sensory thrills.  Generally, the better a vehicle is at one thing, the less well it does others.  There are, however, a small, select group of such machines that do all those things superbly, and if there’s only room in your life – or garage – for one such tool, then read on.

Audi has been in business for a long time but only joined the ranks of world-class German cars in the last ten years or so.  They produce high-performance versions of virtually all their models, and the top-of-the-line model is the S8 ($92,000+).  Under the hood is a 5.2-liter, V-10 engine producing 450 horsepower and 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 4.9 seconds.  Power drives through a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic/manual transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. 

Standard equipment includes 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive air suspension and subdued but muscular bodywork that makes it look like a commando in a tuxedo.  And the icing on the cake is the award-winning, 1000-watt Band & Olufsen audio system ($6,300) that is a perfect accomplice to this semi-formal hot rod from Ingolstadt.

Probably the most well-known vehicle in the Swiss Army Car category is the BMW M5 ($82,900+), which has gone through four generations since its introduction in 1984.  Combining breathtaking performance, stunning agility and elegant luxury to create a unique driving experience, the M5 is powered by a 500 horsepower, V-10 engine with an 8,250 rpm redline and 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 4.5 seconds.  Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a choice of 7-speed SMG (sequential manual gearbox) or racing-style 6-speed manual transmission for tactile-type drivers who prefer to shift for themselves.

Interior appointments include an optional head-up instrument display, 20-way adjustable M sport seats, Merino leather upholstery and a choice of brushed-aluminum interior trim or two types of real wood.  Also part of the package is a 4-year subscription to the Real Time Traffic Information system, no small gift considering the state of roads in the Southland.

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