How to beat recession: make a few super-expensive, super-desirable products that super-rich customers will line up to buy. Thus Lamborghini felt confident enough at this week’s Frankfurt motor show to unveil its €1.1m Reventón Roadster, which does 0-60mph in 3.4 seconds. It will make only 15, most already pre-sold.

So much for bling being in bad taste. Bugatti, Maserati and Bentley also rolled out high luxury models. Koenigsegg, a Swedish maker of €1m supercars, has also turned the auto world on its head by buying Saab.