Undergoing its final leg of testing before production commences later this year, Bugatti’s W16 Mistral roadster is a highly anticipated return to the open-top segment after a nine-year hiatus since the Veyron.
Unlike most Bugattis, which rarely see significant mileage, the Mistral prototype has surpassed 20,000 miles (32,000 km) in grueling real-world testing, ensuring it can handle everyday driving scenarios beyond its top speed potential.
This extensive testing regimen has included not only aerodynamic and crashworthiness evaluations, but also rigorous powertrain testing that goes beyond dyno sessions.
Crucially, the Mistral must not only achieve Bugatti’s promised 261 mph (420 kph) limit, but also demonstrate composure in everyday driving situations with traffic lights, stop-and-go conditions, and lower speed limits.
After all, despite its hefty price tag, the Mistral is fundamentally a car that needs to function flawlessly in a variety of driving environments.
Debuting in August 2022, the Bugatti Mistral caused a stir all 99 units sold out before the official announcement, with a price tag exceeding $5 million.
This ultra-exclusive roadster boasts the same 1,600-horsepower W16 engine as the record-breaking Chiron Super Sport 300+.
To guarantee passenger comfort at blistering speeds, Bugatti is putting the Mistral through rigorous testing, including a 3,200-mile track phase ending with a high-speed run.
