The First W16 Mistral Leaves the Bugatti Atelier
The W16 Mistral marks Bugatti’s final W16 era milestone, uniting breathtaking design with record-breaking performance.
The W16 Mistral represents power in its purest form. Named after one of the eight most formidable winds that sweep across the Mediterranean, the Mistral is a natural force that evokes both nostalgia and anticipation.
Credit: Bugatti
Now, as Bugatti transitions into a new chapter, the legendary W16 era reaches its swansong, with the first examples of the W16 Mistral delivered to customers. This marks a significant milestone for the brand and an exciting new journey for its owners.
The inspiration behind the W16 Mistral can be traced back to some of Bugatti’s most iconic roadsters. The stunning 1934 Type 57 Roadster Grand Raid Usine and the equally captivating Type 57S Roadster, designed by Corsica, helped shape the DNA of this latest masterpiece. These classic models established the defining principles of the W16 Mistral, an elegant, aerodynamically refined profile combined with an immersive open-top driving experience.
This commitment to timeless design and uniqueness carried through to 2022, when Bugatti unveiled the W16 Mistral at the prestigious Monterey Car Week. Debuting at The Quail, the roadster left an indelible mark with its harmonious blend of heritage and innovation. From that moment, it was destined to stand alongside its illustrious predecessors as a symbol of unparalleled automotive craftsmanship.
Credit: Bugatti
Following its debut in the United States, the W16 Mistral embarked on an international tour, making its European premiere at Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille 2022. From there, it continued its journey across the globe, gracing the dunes of the Middle East, the cultural landmarks of Tokyo, the vibrant streets of Singapore, and the picturesque roads of southern France, the very region that lent its name to this extraordinary car.
True to Bugatti’s philosophy of merging beauty with performance, the W16 Mistral’s stunning design houses an engineering marvel, the legendary W16 engine. This automotive masterpiece is paired with an open-top configuration, delivering an unrivalled driving experience that is both exhilarating and emotional. In 2024, it further cemented its legacy by becoming the world’s fastest roadster, setting a new top-speed record of 453.91 km/h.
Credit: Bugatti
Now, as the next chapter of the W16 Mistral’s story unfolds, the first meticulously crafted examples have been completed. After months of masterful workmanship, these remarkable vehicles are leaving the Bugatti Atelier in Alsace, ready to be united with their owners in the United States.
Each W16 Mistral delivered pays tribute to Bugatti’s signature elegance. One model is finished in a striking ‘Black Carbon’ with ‘Bugatti Light Blue Sport’ accents, embracing a sophisticated monochrome aesthetic that exudes both power and refinement. The engine cover, featuring matt-finished elements, serves as a tribute to the legendary W16 engine, the heart of its extraordinary performance. Inside, the bold theme continues with luxurious ‘Bugatti Light Blue Sport’ leather upholstery complemented by ‘Black Carbon’ matt accents and ‘Beluga Black’ stitching.
In contrast, another W16 Mistral features a pristine ‘White Glacier’ finish, highlighted by ‘Blue Carbon’ details, with additional ‘Atlantic Blue’ and ‘Italian Red’ accents, a nod to both the French heritage of Bugatti and the American flag. Its full-carbon fibre engine cover, adorned with polished aluminium highlights, enhances the sleek exterior, while the cabin’s white leather and ‘Lake Blue’ stitching provide an elegant finishing touch.
Credit: Bugatti
A shared detail across both vehicles is the iconic ‘Dancing Elephant’ motif by Rembrandt Bugatti, elegantly displayed within the gear lever. Crafted from a single block of aluminium, this exquisite sculpture pays homage to the Bugatti Type 41 Royale, one of the most luxurious cars ever made. The artistic touches reflect each owner’s bespoke vision: the black W16 Mistral features the sculpture framed in ‘Bugatti Light Blue’ leather, while the white version presents it in ‘Italian Red’ glass, encased within hand-crafted wood.
Credit: Bugatti
Only months after the final Chiron was completed and Bugatti introduced the next era with the Tourbillon, the W16 Mistral embarks on its journey as the ultimate expression of the legendary W16 engine.
A roadster like no other, it stands as a testament to Bugatti’s engineering excellence, distinctive character, and extraordinary heritage, qualities that its first owners can now experience in their purest and most thrilling form.
