A fast car that is simply an ultra-rare work of art; that is Bugatti! The brand has stood for expensive class, grace, and luxury vehicles for over a hundred years. The Bugatti brand offers something exceptional, but only by reading its history can you understand how true this statement is.
Bugatti is one of the first top brands that come to mind when thinking of luxurious sports cars. In addition, the brand has also managed to make a name in the production of performance cars, supercars and sports cars.
Bugatti still represents a brand with old-world charm. A car appreciated by all but only affordable by a few. Throughout its countless years of history, the brand has suffered quite a few setbacks, so much so that it ended up being taken over by other companies with greater financial possibilities. Let’s see what the company has been through and how it is still among the most prestigious car brands today!
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The Wizard Behind the Legend: Ettore Bugatti
Ettore Bugatti was born in Milan on 15 September 1881. For generations, his family had been immersed in the world of art; his grandfather, Giovanni Luigi, was a sculptor and architect, and his father, Carlo, was an internationally renowned artist and designer specialising in furniture making.
Early Career and Influences
Ettore initially pursued art, enrolling at the Brera Academy. However, he soon developed an interest in mechanics, leading him to a career change. In 1898, he started working as an apprentice at the Milanese factory Prinetti & Stucchi, a bicycle manufacturer expanding into the automobile market.
His early designs and work experience need further clarification, as the exact nature of his contributions at this point remains to be verified. While he may have made significant contributions, the notion of creating cars labelled “Bugatti Type 1” and “Bugatti Type 2” is unsupported by verified historical accounts.
Founding Automobiles Ettore Bugatti and Beyond
Subsequently, Ettore Bugatti’s talent led him to design positions at other companies, notably Deutz and then Lorraine-Dietrich. His innovative designs gained him recognition, potentially aided by financial support from Count Gulinelli (the extent and nature of which need further confirmation).
In 1909, he established Automobiles Ettore Bugatti, initially headquartered in Molsheim, Alsace. The company’s location and status were affected by the political changes during and after World War I; its base remained in Molsheim, a region whose national affiliation shifted due to war and subsequent treaties.
Although best known for his automobiles, Ettore Bugatti was a multifaceted inventor and designer. His creativity extended to railway carriages, aeroplanes, bicycles, toy cars, doors, armchairs, surgical instruments, and riding belts. The brand’s technical and aesthetic innovations significantly impacted the development of automobiles and other manufactured goods.
Starting the Brand
The company was founded in 1909 when Ettore Bugatti moved to Molsheim, Alsace. Ettore, coming from a family with a strong artistic tradition, quickly made a mark in the automotive world with the Tipo 13 Brescia (Bugatti Type 13), a car with a design that stood out for its elegance and innovative features. The car’s sophisticated design appealed to affluent customers, quickly establishing the Bugatti brand as a symbol of exclusivity and high-end craftsmanship.
Racing Successes and the Bugatti Type 41 Royale
The brand’s early models were not only successful in showrooms but also on the racetrack, achieving notable victories in various Grand Prix races and competitions during the 1920s. These racing successes further solidified the brand’s reputation for performance and innovation. In 1927, the brand unveiled one of its most iconic and impressive creations: the Bugatti Type 41, also known as the Royale.
Intended for the wealthiest patrons, this majestic automobile boasted an engine delivering a remarkable 200 hp, along with imposing dimensions—measuring seven metres long, two metres wide, and two metres tall. Various radiator cap sculptures were used, but the claim of a “dancing elephant” is unsupported by standard production records.
Only seven examples of the Type 41 Royale were ever produced, reflecting its exceptionally high price and its status as a truly avant-garde vehicle. Its advanced design and extravagant features made it too costly for most, even the very wealthy, but it remains a stunning example of the brand’s design prowess and engineering capabilities.
The 1930s: The Way to the Top!
After the Royale, one of the most elegant cars of the decade, the Bugatti Type 57, was introduced in 1934. This model spawned several notable variants, showcasing the brand’s design versatility and engineering prowess.
Notable Bugatti Type 57 Variants
One such variant was the Galibier, a more practical version of the Type 57 introduced later in 1934. It was distinguished by its four doors, the absence of a central pillar between the front and rear doors, and rear doors that opened against the wind and were only operable from the inside. Another iconic variant was the Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic, produced between 1936 and 1938, renowned for its elegance, quality, and performance.
The Type 57S Atlantic, a higher-performance version of the Atlantic, was produced in a limited run of approximately 43 examples. It featured sleek, sinuous lines, reduced external dimensions (32 cm shorter and lower than the standard Type 57), and a more powerful 3,250 cc eight-cylinder engine (producing 135 to 170 hp), making it the sportiest variant of the Type 57.
Racing Successes and Technological Innovation
The brand’s racing success continued into the 1930s, though the Type 35’s major victories had occurred primarily during the previous decade. While the brand’s cars continued to compete, the company’s racing focus had shifted somewhat by the 1930s, with the Type 57 focusing more on luxury and performance than outright racing competitiveness.
The claim of six Targa Florio wins for the Type 35 requires further verification. While the brand’s engines were indeed powerful and innovative and were incorporated into various applications, claims regarding their use in railway carriages require additional supporting evidence. The exceptionally high speed of 172 km/h for a Bugatti engine during the 1930s highlights the impressive technological advancements achieved by the company.
The 1940s-1980s: Bumps on The Road
In 1939, tragedy struck the company: Jean Bugatti, Ettore’s son and heir apparent, died at the age of 30 while testing a Bugatti vehicle. The exact nature of the vehicle and its racing history require further clarification.
World War II and Ettore Bugatti’s Passing
The outbreak of World War II severely impacted the brand’s operations, significantly hindering production and causing severe disruption. While production slowed dramatically, the company did not cease all activity. After the war, Ettore Bugatti faced financial difficulties and accusations of collaboration, which is something that requires further verification. He died on 21 August 1947 before these matters could be fully resolved.
Later Years and the Sale of Bugatti
In 1951, Rolando Bugatti, one of Ettore’s sons, took over the company. He focused on servicing existing Bugatti automobiles and producing engines for military applications. In 1956, after nearly five decades of operation and the production of just under 8,000 cars, the brand officially ceased automobile production.
Seven years later, in 1963, the company was sold to Hispano-Suiza and subsequently renamed Messier-Bugatti. This entity continues to operate today, specialising in the production of high-precision components for the aerospace and other industries, demonstrating the lasting legacy of the Bugatti name beyond its renowned automobiles.
The 1990s: The Comeback!
Many years passed before anyone attempted to revive this glorious brand. In 1987, Italian entrepreneur Romano Artioli, who had been involved in importing Suzuki vehicles to Italy, established Bugatti Automobile S.p.A. He acquired the rights to the Bugatti brand and set up the company in Campogalliano, near Modena.
The EB110 and its Successors
Artioli’s new company began production with an ambitious project: a 3.5-litre V12 engine featuring four IHI turbines, five valves per cylinder, and a power output of 412 kW. This powerful engine, developed in a relatively short timeframe, was ready for testing in 1989. While the bodywork was still under development, the mechanical aspects were complete. The finished car, named EB110 in honour of Ettore Bugatti, debuted in Paris in 1991. However, despite the car’s impressive specifications, market demand proved to be a significant challenge.
Undeterred, the team launched the EB110 S at the 1992 Geneva Motor Show, a more powerful version with 451 kW, produced in a limited run of approximately 139 units. The EB110 S boasted a stunning V12 engine constructed from a lightweight aluminium-magnesium and aluminium-titanium alloy, producing an output exceeding 600 hp. This supercar highlighted the brand’s ability to produce exceptionally high-performance vehicles, but sales remained challenging.
Further demonstrating their persistence, the brand presented the EB112 in 1993, a four-door saloon that shared its mechanical components with the EB110 but featured a larger 6-litre engine producing 339 kW. Its retro styling drew inspiration from 1930s Bugatti designs, aiming for a broader appeal. However, despite its innovative engineering, this project also faced limited production, with only a handful of examples completed before its cancellation.
The End of an Era
Despite these efforts, Bugatti Automobile S.p.A. filed for bankruptcy in 1995, marking the second time the company had ceased operations. This marked the end of Artioli’s attempt to revitalise the legendary marque, proving that even the most ambitious and well-engineered vehicles need sufficient market demand for survival.
The 2000s: Like the Phoenix Bugatti Rise!
The phoenix is a mythological figure famous for its astonishing ability to be reborn from the ashes; the brand has a lot of affinity with it! Once again, the brand returned to the market, this time under the ownership of the Volkswagen Group, which acquired the company in 1998.
The Bugatti Veyron: A Technological Marvel
Following the acquisition, the brand embarked on an ambitious project: the Bugatti Veyron. This high-performance supercar was capable of exceeding 400 km/h. Its powertrain consisted of an impressive 8.0-litre W16 engine—a sixteen-cylinder engine configured in a W-shape—coupled with a seven-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission and a sophisticated all-wheel drive system.
The engine featured four turbochargers (not turbines), delivering a power output exceeding 1000 hp. This combination of cutting-edge technology and engineering resulted in an automobile that was exceptionally powerful and fast, one of the most powerful and expensive cars in mass production at the time.
Veyron Variants and Continued Development
After extensive prototyping and testing, the brand commenced production of the Veyron in Molsheim in 2005. This groundbreaking supercar boasted an 8.0-litre W16 engine producing over 1000 hp, a top speed exceeding 400 km/h, and breathtaking acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in under three seconds. Veyron’s performance and engineering advancements solidified the brand’s return to the forefront of automotive innovation.
The Grand Sport variant, a roadster version of the Veyron, debuted in 2008. This was followed by the Super Sport variant in 2010, which further enhanced the car’s already incredible performance capabilities. These models represent a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design, exemplifying the brand’s commitment to exceptional performance and exclusive craftsmanship.
The 2010s: Creating a League of its Own!
The heir to the Veyron, the Bugatti Chiron, was unveiled in 2016. Its aggressive design housed an 8.0-litre W16 engine, generating an impressive power output exceeding 1,500 hp (the exact figure may vary depending on specific configurations).
The Divo and the Voiture Noire: Pushing Boundaries
In 2018, the brand introduced the Divo, a Chiron variant specifically engineered for exceptional handling and cornering performance. This hypercar represented a significant step forward in the brand’s pursuit of dynamic excellence, pushing the boundaries of what was considered achievable in terms of cornering capabilities. The car’s name honoured Albert Divo, a Bugatti driver who achieved notable success in the 1920s. Production of the Divo was limited to 40 units.
The year 2019 witnessed the unveiling of the Bugatti La Voiture Noire, a unique and extraordinary one-off hypercar. This ultra-exclusive model, developed over two years, represents a pinnacle of automotive artistry and engineering. Its design drew inspiration from the Type 57 SC Atlantic, a legendary Bugatti model associated with Jean Bugatti.
The Voiture Noire’s minimalist design, extensive use of carbon fibre, and striking LED taillight design further showcase the brand’s craftsmanship. Its powerful 8.0-liter W16 engine, generating 1,500 hp and 1,600 Nm of torque, is derived from the Chiron.
The Bolide: Unparalleled Performance
Bugatti continued to push technological boundaries in 2020 with the introduction of the Bolide, an extreme hypercar. This track-focused machine is powered by an 8.0-litre W16 engine—not a four-cylinder—producing a staggering 1,850 hp and 1,850 Nm of torque, all within a remarkably lightweight chassis weighing just 1,240 kg.
The Bolide delivers exceptional performance: 0-100 km/h in 2.1 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 4.3 seconds, and 0-500 km/h in 20.1 seconds, with a projected top speed exceeding 500 km/h. This vehicle showcases Bugatti’s uncompromising focus on performance and lightweight construction, with a carbon-fibre body, minimal paint, LED lighting elements, and a speed-adjustable air scoop, representing the cutting edge of high-performance automotive engineering.
The Rimac Era
In July 2021, Bugatti Rimac was formed; a joint venture headquartered in Croatia, combining Bugatti’s legacy of high-performance automobiles with Rimac’s expertise in cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. This strategic partnership represents a significant step forward for both companies.
A New Chapter for Bugatti
This collaboration is poised to secure a bright future for the prestigious Bugatti brand, ensuring its continued presence in the luxury automotive market. The joint venture will leverage the strengths of both Bugatti and Rimac, allowing for the exploration of new technologies and design approaches.
While high-performance electric vehicles will undoubtedly play a significant role in Bugatti Rimac’s product portfolio, the company’s future product line-up may also include hybrid or combustion-engine vehicles, reflecting the combined expertise of both parent companies.
The aim is to create a range of models that combine Bugatti’s legendary craftsmanship and performance with innovative electric powertrain solutions. This fusion aims to maintain Bugatti’s status as a creator of exclusive, high-performance automobiles while adapting to the evolving landscape of the automotive industry.
The Now and the Future
The brand continues to push the boundaries of automotive technology, exploring new materials, innovative designs, and advanced manufacturing techniques. Bugatti Rimac aims to remain at the forefront of automotive innovation, pushing the limits of performance and luxury.
Future Models
While specific details remain confidential, Bugatti Rimac has hinted at future models that will showcase its innovative technologies and design language. These vehicles are expected to be highly exclusive and represent the pinnacle of automotive performance and luxury. Expect a blend of heritage and cutting-edge technology, maintaining Bugatti’s legacy while moving boldly into a new era.
Continued Collaboration
The partnership between Bugatti and Rimac remains strong, with both companies contributing their unique expertise and resources to the joint venture. This collaboration allows Bugatti Rimac to develop vehicles that combine Bugatti’s heritage of luxury and performance with Rimac’s expertise in electric vehicle technology.
Global Expansion
Bugatti Rimac is expanding its global reach and establishing new partnerships and distribution channels in key markets around the world. The company aims to enhance its brand presence and make its innovative vehicles accessible to discerning customers worldwide.
Conclusion
Throughout its history, the Bugatti brand has proven that it is like no other! Its impressive and eventful journey and its stylish and superb designs are unmatched! Thanks to its uniqueness and innovation, Bugatti has succeeded in building a remarkable reputation in the automobile industry. Bugatti is the symbol of an all-Italian dream, which, in spite of the many setbacks it had to face, never gave up. This is the key to the Bugatti’s timeless appeal!