by Adrian Hearn

This is the Covini C6W – a six-wheeled Italian supercar which is expected to go on sale later this year.

First appearing at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show as a prototype, the thought behind two sets of front wheels is to increase braking comfort and directional stability.

Inspired by the 1970's Tyrrell F1 car, the front of the Covini has two sets of 15-inch wheels while the rear wheels are 20-inch, using Brembo brakes for stopping power.

Under the bonnet of the surreal supercar is an Audi-derived 4.2-litre V8 engine which develops 431bhp and 346lb/ft of pulling power, channelling this oomph to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox.

Thanks to its carbon fibre and glass fibre body, the Covini weighs just 1,150kg – enabling a claimed top speed of 185mph.

The last 18 months has seen some sensational supercars announced from the Lamborghini Reventon and Nissan GT-R to the Audi R8 and Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport.

But if the rumours of the Covini C6W are true then the Gumpert Apollo looks set to lose its place as the world’s craziest looking supercar.

Video: Watch this great clip of a host of Italian supercars including the Pagani Zonda and Covini C6W.

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