FOLKS who are enamoured of the generous curves found on older cars but prefer the amenities and driveability of modern machines can look forward to a happy compromise soon.

Automobil Manufactur, the Pagani importer here, has secured the rights for Wiesmann, a German boutique brand that makes BMW-powered 'classics'.

The first right-hand-drive model - a 367bhp Wiesmann MF4 GT - will debut in the first quarter of the coming year. Capable of hitting 100kmh in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 290kmh, the 4.8-litre V8-driven fibreglass sports car is expected to cost $658,000.

Founded in 1985 by brothers Martin and Friedhelm Wiesmann, it rolled out its first car in 1993. It has since delivered about 800 cars.

Unlike Mitsuoka, the Japanese manufacturer that turns mass-produced Nissans and Hondas into period pieces through extensive modifications, Wiesmann makes its own chassis and bodies.

It merely sources its engines and transmissions from BMW.

The MF4 GT has classic proportions, with a long shapely bonnet section that seems to go on forever. This is capped by a chrome grille flanked by modern headlamp clusters. At first glance, it reminds you a bit of the Bugatti Veyron's face.

If the MF4 is too tame, there is 507bhp MF5. It is powered by a 5-litre V10 mated to a seven-speed sequential gearbox. It hits the century mark in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 310kmh.

The car should arrive by the middle of next year. It is expected to cost more than the MF4.

Chief executive Jack Yeo expects to sell 10 to 15 cars a year.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on May 10, 2008.