Bugatti enthusiasts have eagerly awaited the arrival of the Mistral, the last street-legal Bugatti powered by the iconic W16 engine. Set to be unveiled in 2022, this convertible hypercar promises to be a true masterpiece. However, before production could commence, Bugatti had to ensure that the Mistral would be fully street-legal in all major markets.
To achieve this, Bugatti re-engineered the monocoque during the development phase. Reinforcements were made to the sills and the transmission tunnel, and the car had to undergo a series of rigorous crash tests for homologation. The French brand was determined to make the Mistral stand out as a convertible that could be enjoyed on any road in any country.
Furthermore, extensive aerodynamic tests were conducted in October 2023 to ensure optimal performance. The Mistral boasts a powerful 1,600-horsepower W16 engine, which had to undergo comprehensive testing on a dynamometer before receiving approval. Bugatti left no stone unturned in its quest for perfection.
The road-testing phase of the Mistral project has now begun. The development team is putting the car through its paces on both tracks and public roads. From different road surfaces to varying elevations and extreme weather conditions, Bugatti wants to ensure that the Mistral performs flawlessly in any environment. Impressively, one of the Mistral’s development mules has already covered nearly 20,000 miles, with an additional 5,000 miles planned for testing. This extensive testing is a testament to Bugatti’s commitment to delivering a truly exceptional driving experience.
Reaching the advertised top speed of over 260 mph is a critical component of the road-testing process. However, finding a suitable track for this test is proving to be a challenge. Emilio Scervo, the chief technical officer for Bugatti-Rimac, explains that they are carefully planning to conduct the high-speed test in safe conditions. Once they secure access to the appropriate track, achieving the top speed will no longer be a problem. Bugatti’s dedication to safety and thoroughness is evident in every aspect of the Mistral’s development.
Although production of the Mistral will be limited to just 99 units, all of them have already been spoken for. Although the base price is approximately €5 million before taxes and options, demand for this exclusive hypercar remains incredibly high. Bugatti enthusiasts are willing to invest in the last W16-powered Bugatti, recognizing its historical significance.
After the Mistral, Bugatti will close the chapter on the W16 engine and shift its focus to the production of the Tourbillon, which boasts a V16 powertrain. The Mistral will join the pantheon of automotive history as the final street-legal Bugatti adorned with this legendary engine. This transition represents Bugatti’s constant pursuit of innovation and pushing boundaries in the hypercar industry.
In conclusion, the Mistral is not just a convertible hypercar; it is a testament to Bugatti’s unwavering dedication to excellence. From extensive crash tests to meticulous aerodynamic evaluations and rigorous road-testing, no detail has been overlooked in ensuring the Mistral’s exceptional performance and safety. With its limited production and historical significance, this final W16-powered Bugatti will undoubtedly become an icon in the automotive world.
