Goodwood, UK – The Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024 became a thrilling stage for Bugatti’s remarkable fusion of innovation and heritage, despite unpredictable weather conditions. The event highlighted the brand’s future with the public debut of the Bugatti Tourbillon, while showcasing the W16 Mistral and Bolide’s performance prowess on the legendary hill climb, cementing Bugatti’s enduring motorsport legacy.
Over the four-day spectacle at Goodwood House in West Sussex, Bugatti’s top brass, from board members to design and engineering leads, delivered an extraordinary display that seamlessly blended cutting-edge technology, luxury, and performance. The centerpiece was undoubtedly the Tourbillon, which had its first public outing after being unveiled in Molsheim in June.
Symbolizing mechanical precision and sophistication, the Tourbillon captivated onlookers at the world’s largest automotive event. This hyper sports car redefines the genre with a new powertrain and platform, inspired by 115 years of Bugatti’s legacy and the vision of Ettore Bugatti.
For the first time, the W16 Mistral, Bugatti’s ultimate roadster, made a dynamic public appearance. Piloted by Bugatti Pilote Officiel Pierre-Henri Raphanel, the Mistral gracefully tackled the hill climb daily, showcasing its bespoke engineering and the definitive 1,600 PS W16 powertrain. Raphanel expressed his thrill, noting the car’s unparalleled sound and the joy it brought to spectators.
The Bolide, following its impressive runs at the 2023 festival, also participated in the hill climb each day. Driven by Bugatti Pilote Officiel Andy Wallace, the track-only hyper sports car featured a special livery celebrating the Type 35’s centenary. Wallace highlighted the significance of driving the Bolide in homage to the Type 35, a vehicle that set a standard of performance and engineering excellence.
Bugatti enthusiasts off the track enjoyed a stunning display of automotive history, including rare examples of the iconic Bugatti Type 57, such as the 1936 Type 57S Atlantic and the 1939 Type 57C Gangloff. This curated exhibit underscored the brand’s storied heritage.
The Goodwood Festival of Speed, attracting over 250,000 visitors annually since 1993, remains the world’s premier automotive celebration. Bugatti’s presence this year emphasized its commitment to pushing automotive boundaries and solidified its status among car enthusiasts worldwide. The Tourbillon, W16 Mistral, and Bolide showcased Bugatti’s unmatched innovation and enduring appeal.
