Bugatti Delivers First W16 Mistral: The Grand Finale of the Legendary W16 Engine
Bugatti has reached a landmark moment in its illustrious final W16 era as the first W16 Mistral departs the Atelier. Named after one of the Mediterranean’s most formidable winds, the Mistral embodies sheer power while exuding an enigmatic allure that stirs nostalgia and anticipation. This swansong of the legendary W16 engine, the W16 Mistral¹, now embarks on its voyage into ownership, signalling a fresh chapter for Bugatti and an exciting journey of discovery for its fortunate custodians.
The W16 Mistral's roots stretch back through Bugatti’s storied past, paying tribute to the marque’s most iconic roadsters. It draws inspiration from the breathtaking 1934 Type 57 Roadster Grand Raid Usine and the equally captivating Type 57S Roadster by Corsica. These masterpieces instilled the essence of what defines the W16 Mistral: a harmonious blend of purposeful, flowing bodylines with an open-top driving experience unlike anything that came before.
That commitment to exceptional design and singular character endured through the decades and resurfaced in 2022 when Bugatti unveiled its latest open-top icon at Monterey Car Week. Revealed at The Quail, the W16 Mistral impressed crowds with its timeless design and groundbreaking innovations, hinting at a creation destined to enchant the world, just like the preceding roadsters.
Following its debut in the United States, the W16 Mistral embarked on a worldwide tour. It made its European premiere at Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille 2022 before journeying across the globe, from the sweeping deserts of the Middle East to the cultural centre of Tokyo, the bright lights of Singapore, and the winding roads of southern France – home to the awe-inspiring wind that inspired its name.
While the W16 Mistral’s elegant, flowing form captivates the eye, it also conceals phenomenal power: Bugatti’s iconic W16 engine. This mighty technological marvel pairs with an open-top configuration, delivering an experience defined by raw power and pure emotion. In 2024, it revealed its full potential when it claimed a new top-speed record for roadsters at 453.91 km/h, sealing its status as the fastest-ever roadster.
As the first chapters of its legend are already written, the story of Bugatti’s ultimate open-top supercar continues. The initial W16 Mistral models left the renowned Alsatian Atelier, were hand-assembled to meticulous standards, and were delivered to their new owners in the United States.
Each W16 Mistral reflects Bugatti’s signature elegance. One delivered car showcases a striking ‘Black Carbon’ finish, accented by ‘Bugatti Light Blue Sport’ highlights. Its nuanced, all-black bodywork radiates power and modern refinement. Matte accents on the engine cover pay homage to the engine’s extraordinary performance. The cockpit features luxurious ‘Bugatti Light Blue Sport’ leather, complemented by ‘Black Carbon’ matte details and ‘Beluga Black’ stitching, emphasising its unique character.
In contrast, another W16 Mistral arrives in pure white, flaunting a refined duotone exterior in ‘White Glacier’ with ‘Blue Carbon’ touches and ‘Atlantic Blue’ plus ‘Italian Red’ accents. These flourishes honour the Star-Spangled Banner and the French heritage at Bugatti’s core. A full carbon fibre engine cover with polished aluminium elements adds even more splendour. The interior is equally immaculate, featuring pristine white leather with ‘Lake Blue’ stitching accentuating the graceful design.
Rembrandt Bugatti’s famed ‘Dancing Elephant’ emblem, integrated into the gear lever, unites both vehicles. Machined from a single block of aluminium, this artistic centrepiece pays tribute to the sculpture that once graced the bonnet of the legendary Bugatti Type 41 Royale. Each owner’s vision emerges through bespoke details: one sculpture appears in clear glass framed by ‘Bugatti Light Blue leather, while the other is fashioned in ‘Italian Red glass and set into handcrafted wood.
Only months after Bugatti finalihandcraftedt hand-crafted Chiron and revealed the Tourbillon’s handcrafted W16 Mistral begins its journey as the ultimate encore for the iconic W16 engine. This peerless roadster stands unmatched in capability, character, and heritage. Its first owners can now immerse themselves in its exhilarating open-top performance and cherish the crowning achievement of Bugatti’s W16 legacy.
