With a blistering top speed of 282 mph, the W16 Mistral sets a new benchmark for roofless hypercars.
Bugatti's W16 Mistral Breaks Records with 282 mph Feat
The Bugatti W16 Mistral has officially claimed the title of the world's fastest open-top car, reaching an unprecedented top speed of 282.04 mph (453.91 km/h). Piloted by Bugatti's experienced test driver and Le Mans winner, Andy Wallace, the hypercar achieved this record at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg track in Germany. The run was independently certified by SGS-TÜV Saar GmbH, ensuring its legitimacy. Bugatti initially aimed to surpass 260 mph with this model, a goal it exceeded by a remarkable 21 mph. Despite the absence of a two-way average run—commonly required for outright records—the accomplishment remains a significant milestone for the open-top segment.
A Unique Vehicle for a Unique Collector
The W16 Mistral that achieved this feat isn’t just any model—it’s a one-of-a-kind creation known as the “World Record Car.” Adorned with a striking Jet Orange and black carbon fiber livery, the vehicle is part of an elite collection owned by a notable enthusiast from the Singh Collection in Punjab, India. This collection boasts other iconic Bugatti speed record holders, such as the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, the Grand Sport Vitesse, and the Chiron Super Sport 300+. The addition of the W16 Mistral cements its owner’s status as a custodian of Bugatti’s rich legacy in speed engineering.
Achieving Speed Through Precision Engineering
The W16 Mistral's record-breaking run wasn’t a spontaneous event; it was the result of months of preparation and rigorous testing. While Bugatti hasn’t disclosed modifications to the quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W16 engine, the hypercar’s performance suggests meticulous fine-tuning. Generating 1,578 horsepower (1,600 PS), the engine, combined with a lightweight chassis, enabled the car to perform under extreme conditions while maintaining stability. Wallace described the experience as exhilarating, noting the vehicle felt like it could push even faster.
A Thrill Like No Other
In a rare display of confidence, Bugatti allowed the car’s owner to witness the record-breaking attempt firsthand. After the successful run, the owner joined Andy Wallace for a high-speed passenger ride, reaching speeds close to the record. Bugatti Rimac CEO Mate Rimac and other executives were present, further emphasizing the historic nature of the event. Such customer involvement is a testament to Bugatti’s commitment to its exclusive clientele and its ability to deliver unparalleled experiences.
A Final Hurrah for Bugatti’s Speed Records
Despite officially stepping away from speed records in 2019, Bugatti couldn’t resist another attempt with the W16 Mistral. This achievement is a fitting sendoff for the brand’s iconic W16 engine, as the Mistral is the last model to feature this legendary powertrain. While the hypercar world eagerly awaits rivals like the Hennessey Venom F5 Roadster, which aims to exceed 300 mph, Bugatti’s legacy in speed engineering remains unmatched.
