The late 20th century witnessed a revolution in automotive engineering, marked by the advent of powerful onboard computers and advanced composite materials. Amidst this backdrop of innovation, Volkswagen embarked on an ambitious journey to resurrect Bugatti, aiming to redefine the boundaries of automotive excellence. The Bugatti Veyron, a product of a decade-long endeavor, shattered preconceived notions of what a street-legal supercar could be. However, to truly understand the Veyron, we must delve deeper into Bugatti’s rich heritage, which began in 1909 with Ettore Bugatti’s vision for high-performance automobiles. Based in Molsheim, Germany, Bugatti’s identity transcended national borders, becoming a symbol of European unity.
Volkswagen’s acquisition of the Bugatti name and company in 1998 might have seemed like a routine industry move at the time. Yet, for Ferdinand Piech, it was a personal mission to showcase the full potential of his grandfather Ferdinand Porsche’s legacy. In 2000, Dr. Piech unveiled the Bugatti Veyron specs, sending ripples of anticipation throughout the automotive world. While Volkswagen already possessed a formidable W12 engine, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 demanded even more power. This led to the creation of a groundbreaking sixteen-cylinder engine, a 488 cu. in. quad-turbocharged “W16” marvel that necessitated ten radiators for optimal cooling.
Decoding the Bugatti Veyron Price Tag
The question on everyone’s mind was, and perhaps still is, the Bugatti Veyron price. The actual investment might remain shrouded in secrecy, but Volkswagen publicly disclosed incurring a loss of $4.6 million on each Veyron sold. This staggering figure stemmed from the immense costs associated with constructing a state-of-the-art factory near Bugatti’s original location. This facility, designed to be cleaner than a hospital operating room, was essential to prevent imperfections in the carbon fiber chassis. The centerpiece was a massive autoclave, capable of handling multiple chassis simultaneously, staffed by highly skilled technicians working with meticulous white-glove precision. So, how much did this engineering marvel cost? The original Bugatti Veyron Msrp (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) was $1.23 million, or one million Euros. This Bugatti Veyron MSRP positioned it far beyond the reach of most, exceeding the median income in many countries. As demand surged and performance evolved, so did the price. The Bugatti Veyron Super Sport price, for instance, reached $2.5 million per unit for the limited run of 30 examples.
CarMax Appraises Bugatti Veyron Mansory for Hilarious Price
Driving the Dream: A Bugatti Veyron Review
Having had the privilege of experiencing the Bugatti Veyron firsthand on several occasions, I can attest to its unparalleled nature. The term “supercar” often conjures images of compromised comfort and jarring rides, but the Bugatti Veyron defies these expectations. Ignoring its striking aesthetics and substantial Bugatti Veyron price for a moment, it is surprisingly user-friendly. The cabin is remarkably quiet and offers excellent visibility. The controls are intuitive, and the air conditioning effectively combats even the Florida heat. The only subtle hint of the immense power within is a unique, mellow exhaust note. This distinctive sound is a product of its sixteen-cylinder configuration, producing a constant low rumble thanks to simultaneous firing cylinders. Furthermore, the engine boasts 2nd and 3rd order harmonic balancing, a feat of engineering that any enthusiast would appreciate. The Veyron’s one-piece carbon fiber body, exceptionally rigid, effectively isolates the cockpit from engine and suspension vibrations.
Driven with restraint, the Veyron might not immediately reveal its iconic status. However, provoking the accelerator unleashes the fury of 922 lb-ft of torque distributed to all four wheels. The subdued exhaust transforms into a thunderous 1,000 horsepower symphony, dwarfing the roar of Mount St. Helens. Beyond its sheer power, the Veyron commands attention wherever it goes. Owning a Bugatti Veyron 16.4 or any of its successors is an experience that will elicit a spectrum of reactions, making every drive a surreal encounter.
Bugatti Veyron Specs: Numbers That Define a Legend
The Bugatti Veyron specs are not just numbers; they are benchmarks of automotive engineering.
- Engine: 8.0-liter W16
- Horsepower: 987 hp
- Torque: 922 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 2.4 seconds
- 1/4 Mile: 10.17 seconds at 139.44 mph
- Top Speed: 252.9 mph
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
- Weight: 4,147 lbs
These figures are not exaggerations. The Bugatti Veyron acceleration is almost unmatched. Imagine a deserted highway at 3 AM – engaging the top-speed key transforms the car. The suspension lowers, aerodynamics optimize, exhaust valves open, and turbos spool up. Launch control catapults the Bugatti Veyron 0-60 mph in under 2.5 seconds. The G-force pins you to your seat as you conquer the Bugatti Veyron quarter mile in a mere 10.1 seconds, reaching 140 mph. While differential gear adjustments could further enhance acceleration at the expense of top speed, the Veyron’s top speed remains breathtakingly close to 260 mph. Despite a Bugatti Veyron weight of 4,147 lbs, its 987 horsepower W16 engine delivers a power-to-weight ratio rivaling fighter jets, ensuring exceptional road grip and handling.
The Heart of the Beast: Bugatti Veyron Engine
The Bugatti Veyron engine, an 8.0-liter marvel, is the cornerstone of its legendary performance. Essentially, it’s two VR8 blocks fused to a common crankshaft, a design rooted in Volkswagen’s VR6 engine expertise found in cars like the Corrado and Golf R32. The Veyron engine pushes this engineering to its zenith. Siamese bores house eight cylinders per head, with four camshafts controlling 64 valves. The square engine design, with a 3.39″ bore and stroke, aims for balanced horsepower and torque. At full throttle and top speed, the Bugatti Veyron fuel pumps deliver a staggering 1.4 gallons per minute!
This immense 8-liter Veyron engine size translates to a fuel consumption of around 3 miles per gallon at 259 mph. Adaptive boost-pressure fuel injection increases fuel pressure proportionally to boost pressure, preventing lean conditions, aided by intercoolers positioned before the injectors. At full tilt, the 26-gallon Bugatti Veyron gas tank empties in just 12 minutes, assuming optimal tire condition. In city driving, expect around 8 mpg, improving to a surprising 14 mpg during “normal” highway cruising.
Fuel and oil cooling are critical. Fuel is constantly recirculated to the tank to maintain temperature, similar to the SR-71 Blackbird. Oil, too, circulates through a dry sump system and its own radiator. A Bugatti Veyron oil change, requiring 27 hours of labor, costs approximately $21,000 at a dealership. The engine holds 60W oil and has 9 drain plugs. Technicians must drain the hot oil (230 degrees F) after removing underbody panels.
The Price of Maintenance: Bugatti Veyron Engine Oil Change
Maintaining a Bugatti Veyron, especially an oil change, is an intricate and expensive undertaking. Accessing the drain plugs necessitates removing underbody components. Refilling the oil requires removing the grille, fender liners, rear deck, and rear brakes – a task demanding significant skill and time. A Bugatti Veyron oil change typically takes several hours and costs between $20,000 and $25,000. Fortunately, Bugatti owners typically drive their cars less frequently, reducing the frequency of oil changes. Annual oil changes are recommended to ensure fresh oil in the engine, irrespective of mileage, making the Bugatti oil change price somewhat more palatable relative to the vehicle’s initial Bugatti Veyron MSRP.
How to Do the $21k Bugatti Veyron Oil Change
Power Transfer: Bugatti Veyron Transmission
An exceptional engine demands an equally robust transmission. While Bugatti engineered most Veyron components in-house, they outsourced the 7-speed DSG automatic transmission (Direct Shift Gearbox) to Ricardo, a company with a proven track record in race-ready dual-clutch transmissions, although Borg-Warner was also considered.
Bugatti claims the transmission’s electronics and diagnostics are designed for the car’s lifespan. To manage the immense power sent to all wheels, the transmission fluid and differentials have dedicated closed-loop cooling systems. Should a catastrophic transmission failure occur, Bugatti doesn’t offer individual parts; a complete replacement costs $120,000! Despite the potential “trans-phobia” associated with such costs, the Veyron’s transmission performance is undeniably exceptional from behind the wheel.
Bringing it to a Halt: Bugatti Veyron Brakes
Equally crucial to speed is stopping power. Bugatti Veyron brakes are engineered for extreme deceleration. Even a gentle pedal press activates the rear spoiler as an airbrake at high speeds. The pedal also engages massive titanium calipers gripping 15.7″ carbon ceramic rotors at the front and 15″ at the rear. These rotor sizes, comparable to trash can lids, can dissipate temperatures up to 3,272 degrees Fahrenheit from 350 mph speeds. Bugatti Veyron brakes set a new standard, exceeding aftermarket brake sizes, but replacement pads and rotors cost more than many daily drivers.
Design Philosophy: Bugatti Veyron Design
Jozef Kaban, drawing inspiration from 1990s Bugatti prototypes and Giorgetto Giugiaro’s influence, penned the Veyron’s striking design. However, form followed function. Managing extreme heat from every fluid system in the Bugatti necessitated 10 radiators. The engine coolant utilizes the first three, sized to fit behind the grille. Intercoolers for each of the four turbochargers require another large heat exchanger. The remaining three circuits cool engine, transmission, and differential oil, each with discreet inlets and outlets.
A graceful curve originating at the door jamb flows into the rear quarter-panels, creating a parabola below the waistline, enhancing cockpit strength without compromising entry. The interior is spacious and luxurious, blending machined aluminum, carbon fiber, and leather. Symmetrical details and exceptional visibility, particularly through the ample rear glass, distinguish the Bugatti Veyron from other cars in its price range.
Grip and Performance: Bugatti Veyron Tires
Beyond the Bugatti Veyron price, enthusiasts are curious about the tires. Michelin developed bespoke tires to withstand 259 mph speeds, utilizing their patented high-speed run-flat design from 2000. The Michelin PAX run-flat tire design is unique with its conical shape. The Bugatti Veyron’s exceptional cornering is partly attributed to these conical wheels, measuring 18″ outer diameter and over 19″ inboard. Consequently, tire mounting requires specialized factory equipment.
Tire replacement involves shipping all four wheels to France if a spare set isn’t readily available, a significant consideration in the overall Bugatti Veyron cost. Aftermarket alternatives are non-existent. The Bugatti Veyron tire size is also unique: 265/680 R500 99 ZR(Y) for the front, translating to 265mm width and 680mm outer diameter.
Bugatti Chiron vs Veyron in Multi-Million Dollar Drag Race
Luxurious Cockpit: Bugatti Veyron Interior
While many supercars prioritize interior aesthetics over functionality, the Bugatti Veyron balances both. Leather armrests, ergonomic controls, and supportive seats prioritize comfort and luxury. The high-quality materials directly influenced the initial Bugatti Veyron cost and continued to justify the investment. For the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport price, the racing-inspired interior further enhanced its value compared to earlier models. The original Bugatti Veyron MSRP was quickly surpassed by pre-owned examples, allowing early owners to capitalize on market demand.
Bugatti Veyron Models: A Lineage of Performance
Bugatti Veyron 16.4: The Original Hypercar
The Bugatti Veyron 16.4, the first of the modern era, signifies sixteen cylinders and four turbochargers. Following concept cars from the Volkswagen Group to gauge public interest and assess engineering feasibility, Veyron development commenced in 2000. Intended for a 2004 launch, initial testing revealed minor issues. Bugatti’s stringent standards led to delays and refinements, pushing the first production models to 2006.
Resurrecting a brand and aiming to surpass all production car benchmarks was a monumental challenge. The Veyron’s successful launch, devoid of major recalls or failures, is a testament to rigorous testing and sound engineering. Such a flawless debut is unlikely to be replicated soon.
Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Specs:
Price: $1,230,000
0-60 mph: 2.4 seconds
Top Speed: 259.9 mph
Horsepower: 1,001 HP (Metric)
Torque: 1,250 NM (Metric)
1/4 Mile: 10.17 seconds @ 139 mph
Weight: 4,147 lbs
Production Numbers: 300
Bugatti 16.4 Grand Sport: Open-Top Thrills
Bugatti engineers continued to innovate, introducing the Bugatti 16.4 Grand Sport convertible. Due to powertrain constraints, a Targa roof was developed instead of a conventional folding top. Production was limited, starting in 2009 and concluding in 2015.
Limited to 150 units, each Grand Sport included a removable hardtop and a stowable soft top for light rain. Without the hardtop, top speed was limited to 229 mph due to aerodynamic instability. Chassis reinforcement was necessary as the Veyron platform was not initially designed as a roadster.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Specs:
Price: $1,593,706
0-60 mph: 2.2 seconds
Top Speed: 252 mph
Horsepower: 1,001 HP (Metric)
Torque: 1,250 NM (Metric)
1/4 Mile: 10.17 seconds @ 139 mph
Weight: 4,387 lbs
Production Numbers: 150 (First 50 to Bugatti customers)
Special Editions of the Bugatti Grand Sport
Bugatti Grand Sport Venet
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Middle East Edition – 2011
Targeting the Middle East market, Bugatti offered three unique Grand Sport editions. A yellow over black version at $2,150,000, and navy blue over silver and brown & brushed aluminum versions at $2,373,000.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Red Edition – 2011
A classic red-themed edition, featuring red throughout, from wheels to seat stitching.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Blanc – 2010
A matte white (Bianco Canopus Matte) edition with black accents, commissioned by a UK customer with a glass roof, sports seats, and diamond-cut 2-tone wheels.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Noir
A “heart of darkness” edition, limited to 20 units, with wheels costing $120,000 per set.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport by Bijan Pakzad – 2011
Commissioned by fashion designer Bijan Pakzad, who sadly passed away shortly after delivery. His son has since been seen driving it in Southern California.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Soleil de Nuit – 2010
“Sun of the night” edition, blending dark blue metallic with brushed aluminum, Sang Noir wheels, and a burnt orange interior, created for the 2010 Dubai Motor Show.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Wei Long Edition 2012
Created for the Chinese market and Beijing Auto Show, celebrating the Year of the Dragon. Collaborating with Konigliche Porzellan Manufaktur, featuring a refined exterior, Carmine Red leather interior, silk floor mats, and dragon-embroidered headrests.
Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport: Beyond Super
Engineers further refined the Veyron with the Super Sport. Aerodynamic enhancements included NACA ducts replacing side scoops, dual roof heat extractors, and a larger integrated rear spoiler. Larger turbos and intercoolers increased power and Bugatti Veyron Super Sport top speed. Despite increased power, the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport 0-60 mph remained similar due to tire limitations.
Bugatti Veyron Super Sport Specs
Price: $1,555,411
0-60 mph: 2.4 seconds
Top Speed: 267.856 mph
Horsepower: 1,184 hp
Torque: 1,106 lb-ft
1/4 Mile: TBD
Weight: 4,044 lbs
Production Numbers: 30
Special Edition Super Sport
Bugatti Veyron Super Sport Black Carbon – 2011
One of the first cars with visible black carbon fiber, designed for the Chinese market. Black carbon exterior with a snow beige and beluga black interior.
Bugatti Veyron Super Sport Edition Merveilleux – 2011
A mysterious edition, with a video released by Bugatti for a Chinese buyer named ‘Simon’ on his 40th birthday.
Veyron Super Sport Le Saphir Bleu – 2012
A London-based edition with a striking baby blue and sapphire blue paint scheme.
Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse: The Ultimate Roadster
The Bugatti Veyron culminated in the Grand Sport Vitesse, the fastest roadster ever. Combining the Super Sport engine with a Targa roof required chassis and aerodynamic revisions. Development began in 2012, with final models delivered in 2015. Numerous special and one-off editions were produced, making the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse price among the highest in the Veyron lineup.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Specs:
Price: $2,157,700
0-60 mph: 2.5 seconds
Top Speed: 233 mph (electronic limiter)
Horsepower: 1,200
Torque: 1,100 lb-ft
1/4 Mile: TBD
Weight: 4,938 lbs
Production Numbers: 92
Special Edition Grand Sport Vitesse:
Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse “1 of 1”
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse SE – 2012
A Bianco over New Light Blue edition, inspired by a 1928 Bugatti Type 37A owned by Jay Leno.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport World Record Car, WRC Edition – 2013
Eight units commemorating the world record, featuring black carbon fiber with Arancia orange accents.
Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Lang Lang Edition 2013
Commissioned for pianist Lang Lang, with an ivory white and black piano key-inspired livery, white leather interior with musical note stitching, and Lang Lang’s signature in gold.
Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse La Finale 2015
The final two Veyrons, the 150th roadster and 450th coupe, finished in red and black exposed carbon fiber, echoing the first production Veyron and marking the first red exposed carbon Veyrons.
Bugatti Veyron Standout Features: Cooling and Innovation
The Bugatti Veyron’s extreme performance generates immense heat, necessitating a complex cooling system. It features 10 radiators, with the largest taking 15 hours to fabricate. The engine’s water pump circulates 10.5 gallons of coolant through 3 front radiators.
Intercoolers for each cylinder bank manage turbocharger heat.
Dedicated circuits cool the air conditioning, transmission, and differentials.
An engine oil cooler manages the 60-weight oil lubricating the engine.
The compact packaging demands precise tolerances. A hydraulic system controls aerodynamics, adjusting front and rear spoilers and ride height. Originally aluminum, the front grilles were changed to stainless steel to withstand bird impacts, famously quipping that impacts would turn birds into “French Fries.”
Luxury options included one-carat diamonds on the speedometer and power gauge, cut with 16 facets. Reaching top speed requires a dedicated Top Speed key, which adjusts aerodynamics and locks steering for gradual turns, only engaging if the car detects new tires and optimal fluid levels.
