Applying four huge composite ceramic brakes stopped that possibility in its tracks.

Compared to the A8 L W12, the S8 has sportier mechanical features such as a firmer suspension, larger wheels, and ceramic brakes.

The first development of the modern ceramic brake was made by British engineers working in the railway industry for TGV applications in 1988.

Bigger wheels and tires along with lightweight ceramic brakes were standard.

Today, ceramic brakes are of interest for their performance advantage - maintaining their stopping power even when extremely hot.

That may persuade more high-end automakers to offer ceramic brakes, which could help to reduce costs and make them available on more cars.

The test car was equipped with optional $13,000 ceramic brakes that stopped the LP640 almost as quickly as the engine could propel it.

This is worsened if you have the optional ceramic brakes (£9,729), which are erratic and groan loudly when dawdling.

The ceramic brakes also reduce unsprung mass by around 50% and thereby improve steering response and overall handling.

The ceramic brakes, too, are superbly honed to provide sublime levels of feedback and progression allied to immense stopping power.