THE State Tender Board last week awarded a R20-million contract for luxury cars for the country’s top politicians. The Sunday Times reports that for the first time, the deal provides for two cars for each for national Cabinet ministers and deputies. Ministers can choose two cars from a list which includes the BMW 528i, Mercedes-Benz E320, Audi A6 Quattro and Alfa Romeo 156 V6 – worth up to R280000 each. Provincial premiers can choose one. Deputy ministers can choose two from a list which includes the Audi A4 2,8, Audi A4 2,8 Quattro Tiptronic, MercedesBenz C280 and BMW 328i — worth up to R230000 each. Provincial MECs can choose one. Minimum specifications for all cars include leather upholstery, air conditioning, radio, tape deck and CD shuttle.