A German model maker has paid homage to the new Lamborghini Aventador supercar by creating a scale replica that features solid platinum and gold.

The model is just 1:8 the size of the original but has been valued at a whopping €3.5 million (£3.03m), carrying a significantly heftier price tag than its full-size driveable equivalent, which has a recommended retail price of €255,000 (£221,000) in Europe.

Model maker Robert Gulpen explained that the replica cost so much because of its precious metal and gems features, which cost €2 million (£1.73m) alone.

The tyre rims and interior have been cast from solid gold and platinum, while diamonds are found in the seat, headlights and steering wheel.

But the largest proportion of the engineering wizardry has been applied to the car shell, for which Mr Gulpen wrapped 1/1000mm thin threads of solid gold around carbon fibres.

In a post on his website, Gulpen noted that his model is "extreme and uncompromising, exclusive, sensual, and challenging, just like a real Lamborghini".

However, an important exception is that car fans will be unable to drive the scale model.

<b>Source:</b>
<br/><br/>
<a href="http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2011-09/13/worlds-most-expensive-model-car">The world's most expensive model car (14/09/11)</a>
<br/><br/>
<a href="http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20105585-1/buy-a-$4.8-million-model-of-a-$380000-real-car/">Buy a $4.8 million model of a $380,000 real car (14/09/11)</a>
<br/><br/>
<a href="http://www.inquisitr.com/141508/cant-afford-the-380k-real-car-then-how-about-a-4-8m-model-of-that-car/">Can’t afford the $380K real car then how about a $4.8M model of that car? (14/09/11)</a>
 

&copy; Adfero Ltd