Sold Out Upon Announcement

The ultra-super sports car from Bugatti Automobiles,Veyron 16.4Veyron 16.4. Since the first car was launched in 2005, it has evolved into the 1,200-horsepower "Grand Sport Vitesse." Even after nearly a decade, it remains a class apart from its rivals.

Starting in the summer of 2013, the "Legends" series was introduced for wealthy clients seeking more exclusive models, based on the Grand Sport Vitesse. Each of these limited-edition models, featuring unique interiors and exteriors, is priced at 2.35 million euros (320 million yen) and is restricted to just three units per model.




The "Ettore Bugatti," the final installment of the series, was unveiled in August 2014 during Monterey Car Week on the U.S. West Coast, specifically at the "Motorsport Gathering" held at the exclusive resort, The Quail Lodge.

How to Fuse Heritage and Modernity

The "Legends" series is characterized by its sub-names honoring historical figures associated with Bugatti. The first car, named after Bugatti driver "Jean-Pierre Wimille," featured a blue color scheme reminiscent of the "T57G Tank" he piloted to victory in the 1937 24 Hours of Le Mans.



Jean-Pierre Wimille's debut was at the Monterey Car Week in August 2013. Since then, the "Legends" series has been progressively unveiled at various events, including motor shows.




The second car honored "Jean Bugatti," the founder's eldest son and a gifted engineer. The third car was dedicated to "Meo Constantini," the director of Bugatti's pre-war works team. The fourth car was named after "Rembrandt Bugatti," a sculptor and the creator of the famous elephant radiator mascot. The fifth car, "Black Bess," belonged to the French aviator Louis Blériot, a devoted Bugatti enthusiast.



For instance, the "Jean Bugatti" features a color scheme and interior motif inspired by the "T57SC Coupé Atlantique" he designed in 1937. Meanwhile, the "Meo Constantini" combines blue and aluminum, evoking the invincible Grand Prix car, the "T35." The interior design, mimicking the course of the Targa Florio where it achieved success, is also noteworthy.




"How to fuse heritage and modernity? It's a challenging but rewarding theme that we've embraced," says Wolfgang Dürheimer, CEO of Bugatti Automobiles.



"While Bugatti hasn't produced many models, they leave a powerful impression on us. Seeing the historical models at the Monterey Car Week event, one can still feel their significant presence. It's not surprising that those who admire the classic Bugattis would purchase a Veyron 16.4 and seek out those vintage color schemes."

To Remain a Dream

Interestingly, the "Ettore Bugatti" was sold out even before its unveiling. So why did Bugatti set up a large booth and create an elaborate display with multiple models?



Dürheimer, who appeared at Bugatti's booth specially set up in a rented building at Pebble Beach, provides the answer: "The 'Legends' series cars are indeed no longer available for purchase. The reason we brought them to the Motorsport Gathering is precisely that. Paradoxically, by showcasing the actual cars, we aim to convey that Bugatti is not a brand that is easily attainable."



There is also talk of a successor to the Veyron 16.4. "While I cannot disclose details at this moment," Dürheimer began, "Bugatti's motto is fast, powerful, low, and wide. We will continue to uphold this. Furthermore, we have no intention of producing more affordable models. Bugatti must always remain a dream for automotive enthusiasts."



Throughout the key events, including the Motorsport Gathering on Friday, the "Motorsport Reunion" at Laguna Seca on Saturday, and the "Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance," one could see numerous historic Bugattis.



Will the "Legends" series also be celebrated models in the future? "I cannot promise that, but I am confident that owning them brings happiness to our customers," Dürheimer stated with a smile.