Bugatti W16 Mistral
Redesigned front horseshoe grille
The iconic Bugatti horseshoe grille at the front has been redesigned to improve aerodynamic performance while respecting tradition.
Following Bugatti’s long-standing principle of “form follows performance,” the W16 Mistral’s aerodynamic design is at the heart of the car. The intense open-air driving experience at a top speed of 420 km/h is made possible by Bugatti’s aerodynamic development, which has been cultivated for over 100 years.
Bugatti’s master designers’ quest for ultimate aerodynamics began with the front section of the W16 Mistral, where they redesigned the iconic Bugatti horseshoe grille to push the boundaries of aerodynamics.
The horseshoe grille, exclusive to the W16 Mistral, has been widened and incorporates perfectly aligned 3D printed mesh, significantly improving cooling for the 8.0-liter W16 quad-turbo engine, which produces a maximum output of 1600 PS.
The front light units, reminiscent of the Chiron with its eight light elements, are arranged vertically as a homage to special models such as the Divo and La Voiture Noire. The elegant, three-dimensional design surface features air intakes led by air curtains to reduce drag. Furthermore, the fresh air introduced from here is smoothly discharged through the wheel wells.
Bugatti Design Director Frank Hale explained the Mistral’s design, which combines aerodynamics and aesthetic sensibility:
“From the very beginning of the design process, it was clear that the W16 Mistral would be a thrilling car that would make history. It was not only an opportunity to look back fondly on the end of the iconic W16 era for Bugatti, but also to introduce the next generation of aerodynamics to the world.”
“Bugatti’s signature performance, luxury and elegance have been meticulously engineered and designed to deliver an open-top design that remains safe even at speeds of 420 km/h. This is a remarkable achievement that firmly etched itself into the 100-year story of Bugatti excellence.”
Designed for enhanced cooling and aerodynamics
The C-line, a key Bugatti design element, improves aerodynamics and efficiently directs fresh air into the engine bay.
The airflow around the W16 Mistral is channelled into the encapsulated “C-line”, a feature that has been exclusive to Bugatti for over a century. Positioned high for maximum performance, the C-line houses intelligent air inlets that further enhance the W16 Mistral’s incredible aerodynamics. This aerodynamic device simultaneously handles fresh air and pressure, cooling the engine, gearbox and rear axle.
In keeping with Bugatti’s philosophy, the C-line form is all about performance. Yet, the seamless, elegant flow from the window to the windscreen is reminiscent of a racing driver’s helmet visor. An integrated cross beam across the windscreen also directs airflow over the open cockpit, providing maximum downforce to the rear wing.
The base of the window pays homage to Bugatti’s past open-top models. The air intake system, including the sculpted scoop, is perfectly integrated into the rigid carbon fiber crash structure. Fresh air is drawn in through the sculpted air scoop, passes through an air filter, and is sent to the four turbochargers mounted on the 8.0-liter W16 engine. The scoop also amplifies the magnificent engine sound of the W16 and delivers it to the passengers in the cabin.
Hot air exhausted from the radiator that cools the W16 engine passes through a duct into the rear section. Hot air is sucked in by negative pressure and then exhausted from the outlets in the X-shaped taillights of the W16 Mistral. The rear section, inspired by the Bolide, elegantly combines beautiful design with original technology. The rear airflow is accelerated by a lamp-design diffuser, increasing downforce at high speeds.
