By Chris Irvine

IT'S THE vehicle that would have made James Bond green with envy, not to mention a trifle damp - the first-ever underwater car.

Self-confessed 007 fanatic Frank Rinderknecht created the sQuba', which will go on show at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

The 1million (£750,000) prototype can dive to a depth of 30ft.

Its three electric motors are capable of taking it to 75mph on land, to 4mph while cruising in "boat" mode and a leisurely 2mph while underwater.

Reader Poll Should more cars be allowed in town centres? Yes 63.8% No 34.6% Don't know 1.6%

Once beneath the surface, the driver and passenger breathe from an integrated tank of compressed air similar to that used by scuba divers.

While on the subject of unattainable cars, MSN Cars announced the Audi R8 was its car of the year in an online poll.

The new sports car crossed the finish line ahead of traditional favourites Ferrari and Rolls-Royce, taking 42% of the vote.

It easily defeated the second-place Ferrari 430 Scuderia, while the BMW M3 struggled into third place.

Cars and car chases have long been part of pop culture.

We fondly recollect fantasy cars such as the Batmobile, Scooby Doo's Mystery Machine and Del Boy's Robin Reliant.

We asked: If you could have any car, what would it be and why?

As underwater car is set to be revealed at top international motor show
SHAW ANDERSON, 45, Bearsden, Glasgow council: I'll be sad and go for one of the new Jags - the XF. It's stylish, luxurious, it suits the family, and it looks good.	CHRISTINA McGARVA, 20, Kelvingrove, student: I'd really love a light blue Mini with a white roof and white wing mirrors. Every time I pass them my heart melts.	GEORGE KERR, 63, Townhead, retired: I used to have one of those Ford Granadas, back then they were the Mercedes of their day.	VIKKI HIRD, 22, city centre, student: A Land Rover - they look really nice, they're handy if you've got lots of people to pick up. They're also good in the countryside.

JENNIFER CAYGILL, 22, Falkirk, student: I'd be quite happy with a Mini Cooper because its small, quick and very, very cute. My sister has one and they're fab wee cars.

DAVID MORRIS, 35, England, account manager: The Aston Martin DB9, it's just a classic British car isn't it? It's powerful, stylish - it sums up the UK to me - it's quality.

DEE COWAN, 50, Giffnock, communications support: Give me a small Toyota any day, a Yaris or Ay-Go and I'm happy. We've always had one and they perform so well.

JULIE BLACKWOOD, 56, Townhead,housewife: I like Jeeps because they're so comfortable, and they are safe for long distance travel.