The French automobile manufacturer Venturi is one of those exciting "now you see them, now you don't" kind of companies. The first question any journalist researching an article on the company will ask is, "are they still in business?".

The answer is 'yes', and there are strong signs that the famous luxury car maker, which started off in 1985, is on the verge of shipping a successful product to dealers' showrooms in the next few months.

The Venturi Fétish is a GT light, meaning that it isn't a sports car, but more of a miniature GT car. At least that's what the makers say. Whether or not the small two-seater is really suitable for long tours is another question.

The noise level created by the centrally-located engine is likely to force the crew to make frequent stops. Nevertheless, the Fétish is an interesting alternative to many established sports coupés, even if it is just because of the lean curves.

Specifications:

4-cylinder - 16 valves

180 PS at 6500 rpm

5-speed transmission

Rear centre engine - two-seater

2000 ccm cubic capacity

0 - 100 km/h in 6.0 sec.

Top speed: 140 mph

Price: approx. Euro 35,000