Bugatti EB110

Overview

The Bugatti EB110 is a pivotal model in the storied history of Bugatti, marking the brand's revival in the modern era. Unveiled on September 15, 1991, the EB110 was introduced on what would have been the 110th birthday of Ettore Bugatti, the brand's founder, hence the name EB110. This supercar was developed by Bugatti Automobili S.p.A., a company established in the late 1980s by Italian entrepreneur Romano Artioli, who aimed to resurrect the Bugatti brand with a state-of-the-art facility in Campogalliano, Italy.

The Bugatti EB110 was designed by Marcello Gandini, who later modifications were made by Giampaolo Benedini to the final design, showcasing a blend of traditional Bugatti elegance with modern supercar aesthetics. It featured a sleek, low-slung body with scissor doors, a hallmark of supercars of that era, and a design that emphasized aerodynamic efficiency.

Powering the EB110 was a 3.5-liter quad-turbocharged V12 engine, producing 560 horsepower (419 kW) in the standard GT model and up to 610 horsepower (455 kW) in the Super Sport (SS) variant. This engine was mated to a six-speed manual transmission, driving all four wheels through Bugatti's advanced all-wheel-drive system. The car's performance was formidable, with the EB110 GT capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in about 3.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of over 213 mph (343 km/h). The lighter and more powerful EB110 SS could achieve even faster acceleration and a top speed of approximately 220 mph (355 km/h).

The EB110 was a technological marvel of its time, featuring a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, a rarity in the early 1990s, which provided exceptional rigidity and lightness. Its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, combined with active aerodynamics, including an automatically deploying rear wing, ensured outstanding handling and stability at high speeds.

Production of the EB110 commenced in 1991 and continued until 1995, with Bugatti Automobili S.p.A. facing financial difficulties that eventually led to its bankruptcy. Despite its brief production run, the EB110 left a significant mark on the automotive world as a symbol of the revival of the Bugatti name and as one of the most extraordinary supercars of its time. Approximately 139 EB110s were produced, including both GT and SS variants, making it a rare and sought-after collector's item today.

The EB110's blend of innovative technology, breathtaking performance, and luxurious craftsmanship set the stage for future Bugatti models, including the Veyron and Chiron, which would continue the legacy of pushing the boundaries of automotive excellence. The EB110 remains a testament to Bugatti's enduring allure and its capacity to produce vehicles that combine art, technology, and performance in a manner few other brands can achieve.

The Bugatti EB110 received generally positive reviews, with praise for its groundbreaking performance, innovative technology, and luxurious design. However, its high price tag, limited practicality, and lack of traditional "Bugatti" character were also noted by some critics. Today, it is a collectible and considered a true '90s icon.