Bugatti W16 Mistral

Overview

Also known as the 2024 Bugatti W16 Mistral, the Mistral has the distinction of being the final model line to carry the now-legendary 8.0L quad-turbocharged W16 that started with the Veyron. Despite appearances, it is not simply a roadster version of a Chiron, but an entirely new design based on research and development done during the Chiron's lifetime, especially the Super Sport and Bolide.

Using all of that knowledge, Bugatti markets the Mistral, and has a very good reason to do so, as "the fastest roadster in the world." To run down why, it's simply because the W16 will be turned up to 1,600 PS (1,578 HP), through a bespoke 7-speed dual-clutch semi-automatic transmission to all four wheels, and with the top will howl through 200 MPH. With the top up... no one knows. Yet.

As to the name of the model line, the Mistral is named after the fierce NorthWesterly wind that blows down from Southern France into the Gulf of Lion in the Northern Mediterranean. These winds will often exceed 40 MPH (65 KPH) sustained, and can blow as hard as 115 MPH (185 KPH) in the Winter and Spring. They are also a "ceaseless wind," in that they are constantly blowing, all day, all night, every day of the year, due to the unique topography of the Western coast of France.

The actual term "Mistral," and what inspired Bugatti to name their ultimate roadster after it, is that in the old Occitan dialect of Languedoc, it means "Masterly." Most importantly, despite the fact that the Mistral wind can bring sudden storms with it, for the most part it accompanies clear skies and fresh weather, which is what you want when you're roaring down the French motorways with the top down!

99 units of the Mistral will be made, with all build slots already sold at a staggering €5 million each, before any personalization.