In a dazzling display of engineering prowess and speed, Bugatti has once again cemented its status as a global icon of automotive excellence. The W16 Mistral has set a staggering new top-speed record for an open-top car, achieving an unprecedented 453.91 km/h on the world-class ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg track in Germany.
This latest milestone is a continuation of Bugatti’s legacy, adding to its series of record-breaking moments, including the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, the Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse, and the Chiron Super Sport 300+. Each of these iconic vehicles has pushed the boundaries of innovation and performance, and the W16 Mistral is no exception.
The Making of a Record
Months of meticulous planning, testing, and collaboration led to the historic run on November 9. Bugatti’s legendary driver and Le Mans winner Andy Wallace piloted the custom-engineered W16 Mistral through its paces. Following a precision warm-up lap to optimize the vehicle’s high-performance tires, Wallace unleashed the full power of the W16 engine on Papenburg’s straight, open track, culminating in the record-breaking speed.
“From the moment I began testing, the W16 Mistral felt stable, powerful, and ready to go faster,” Wallace shared. “Breaking this record was more than just an achievement; it was an emotional experience, feeling the raw power of the open-top design combined with the unmistakable roar of the engine.”
A Milestone Witnessed in Style
For the first time in Bugatti’s history, the record-breaking moment was attended by the car’s owner, a distinguished collector from Punjab, India. This customer, who holds the only collection featuring all of Bugatti’s World Record Cars, was treated to an exclusive experience that included a thrilling high-speed passenger ride with Wallace.
Designing Speed and Elegance
The €14 million W16 Mistral World Record Car is a masterpiece of form and function. Its sleek black carbon exterior is accentuated by vibrant “Jet Orange” details, echoing the signature design of Bugatti’s earlier record-setters. The same theme flows into the interior, creating a unified aesthetic that celebrates the car’s historic achievement.
Bugatti’s Legacy of Innovation
Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti Rimac, reflected on the momentous occasion:
“Since 1909, Bugatti has redefined the limits of speed, luxury, and elegance. With the W16 Mistral, we’ve not just repeated history but made new history. This achievement is a testament to our team’s passion for perfection and innovation.”
The record-breaking run of the W16 Mistral marks not only the end of an era for Bugatti’s iconic W16 engine but also the continuation of a legacy defined by groundbreaking achievements. For the world of automotive excellence, Bugatti’s relentless pursuit of perfection remains unmatched.
