VW's 2007 Triple-White Beetle

For some car enthusiasts, nothing inspires desire quite like a limited-edition model.

Auto makers are only to happy to oblige, presenting cars that have special features like unique paint colors or an update of a car already proven to be catnip to collectors.

While Ford’s 2007 Shelby GT500 came in a batch of 10,000 (8,000 coupe/ 2,000 convertible), the 2008 Shelby GT500 KR (King of the Road) may come in as few as 1,000 models, according to Ford officials. But racing legend Carroll Shelby disputed that number in an interview with automotive blog Stansunleashed.com. “Somebody said 1,000. I haven’t signed off on that yet,” Mr. Shelby said. (See the video interview.)

Pricing for the GT500 KR is not set yet but Ford officials said that they have seen GT500s sell for as much as $40,000 above sticker price. The very first 2007 GT500 sold for $600,000 at auction.

The Volkwagen Beetle also has a cult following. The 2007 Triple White Beetle convertibles update the 1976 - 1979 models. The crisp white-on-white interior and exterior is complemented by the white convertible roof boot. Unlike its ’70s cousin, the new Beetles have practical black convertible top, which is likely easier to clean than the original white top. Only 3,000 will be available, starting at around $26,000.

Last night, Mercedes Benz premiered one of the smallest batches of limited editions: in honor of the high performance AMG’s line’s 40th anniversary, there will be only 40 2008 CL65 AMGs worldwide. Only 20 will wind up stateside. The CL65 comes with a unique paint, AMG Alubeam, described as “liquid metal” or “luminescent chrome” by Mercedes officials. Each car is numbered with a “xx out of 40″ on the handrest. Pricing is not finalized but is expected to start at $180,000 to $200,000; the cars go on sale this October.