Mate has an EL Gli Sapphire auto.
When he puts his foot down it takes about 2 seconds for the car to boot, I think its got something to do with his auto box but im not sure.

Any ideas?

I had a similiar problem with mine - fixed itself right away with a gearbox flush from the ford dealer $150. Dealer said the oil was half full and burnt. A common problem as it baically doesnt get done for ages....