The rare Bugatti W16 Mistral is a limited-edition open-top roadster designed to mark the end of the W-16 engine’s legacy. With a transaxle connected to the all-wheel drive super engine, capable of producing the same power as the Chiron Super Sport 300+, this car comes with a price tag of $5.1 million – a hefty sum, regardless. Nonetheless all 99 models of the rare W16 Mistral have already been sold out.
As the 21st century comes to a close, the era of Bugatti’s W-16 engine will draw to a close too. This 8-liter quad-turbo powerhouse was iconic, powering all of Bugatti’s 21st-century vehicles, from the original Veyron, to the Chiron Super Sport 300 +, capable of an impressive 1578 hp. Unfortunately, emissions regulations and the need to electrify have put an end to this legacy. But what better way to commemorate it than with the Mistral, the open-top roadster variant of the Chiron – the final resting place for W-16.
Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti Rimac, expressed that they had to design a roadster to mark the last journey of the renowned W-16 engine. “It’s remarkable to note that more than 40 percent of all the Bugattis made in history had a convertible body type. These classic automobiles are respected all over the globe, and still regarded as grand performance icons,” he added.
The Bugatti Mistral is equipped with a newly-designed carbon-fiber monocoque based on the architecture used in the Chiron. However, this frame has been designed to give the Mistral a very distinct aesthetic compared to the Chiron. In addition, it also houses a 16-cylinder engine, as seen in the Bugatti Super Sport 300+, that is hooked up to a dual-clutch transaxle, allowing power to be sent to all four wheels.
The Mistral’s design was largely inspired by the Type 57 “Grand Raid” Roadster, designed by Ettore Bugatti’s son, Jean. Taking cues from the Grand Raid’s memorable V-shaped windshield, the Mistral had its own low, wraparound version. Additionally, the show car’s black over yellow livery was inspired by a particular example of the Grand Raid.
Atop the headrests on the Mistral are two intakes that serve a dual purpose: not only do they provide air to the engine, but they double as rollover protection. Crafted from carbon-fiber, these intakes can handle the weight of the entire car. Out back, the X-shaped taillight motif first seen on the Bolide has been carried over to the Mistral, providing a unique look and ample ventilation for the scorching heat generated by the powertrain.
Inside the Mistral, the interior is reminiscent of Chiron, but incorporates certain new elements, such as quilted leather on the door panels and an homage to Rembrandt Bugatti’s elephant sculpture as the shifter knob. Customers also have the option for unlimited customization. The production of the Mistral is limited to only 99 cars, with each priced at € 5 million. All cars have been sold out, marking a bittersweet end to the age of the 16-cylinder engine.