Bugatti has once again shattered records with the W16 Mistral, establishing a new top speed for open-top vehicles at an astonishing 453.91 km/h. This remarkable feat, achieved at Germany’s ATP Automotive Testing facility in Papenburg, adds another chapter to Bugatti’s storied legacy of record-breaking accomplishments. The W16 Mistral joins Bugatti’s iconic line of record-setters, including the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse, and the Chiron Super Sport 300+.
The journey to this record was no small feat. Months of rigorous testing and meticulous preparation culminated on November 9th when Bugatti Pilote Officiel and Le Mans winner Andy Wallace took the W16 Mistral for its record-breaking run. Wallace’s precise handling and Bugatti’s state-of-the-art engineering saw the Mistral reach this unprecedented speed. Following strict monitoring by SGS-TÜV Saar GmbH, the record was officially confirmed, solidifying the W16 Mistral’s place in automotive history.
Underneath its sleek, carbon-fiber exterior, the W16 Mistral houses a powerful quad-turbocharged W16 engine, which delivers a thrilling driving experience, heightened by the open-top design. Wallace described the drive as an overwhelming sensory experience, as he felt the full force of the wind and heard the roar of the engine echoing from the air scoops beside him.
Unique to this record-breaking event was the attendance of the vehicle’s owner, who also had the rare opportunity to experience a high-speed run with Wallace, potentially setting an unofficial passenger speed record.
The W16 Mistral, part of The Singh Collection, an esteemed car collection showcasing Bugatti’s world record editions, bears a distinctive design with Jet Orange accents and a visible black carbon finish. This design draws from Bugatti’s signature aesthetic, used on previous record-setting models, creating a visual and historical continuity within the brand.
Reflecting on the achievement, Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti Rimac, celebrated the Mistral’s success: “With the unparalleled achievement of the W16 Mistral World Record Car etched into the history books, we see history not just repeating itself, but new history made.”
With this new record, Bugatti has once again proven that it remains at the forefront of automotive innovation, blending power, luxury, and performance in ways that continue to redefine the limits of possibility.
Shawn Henry