Hypercars stand as extreme machines, with a distinct numerical dead zone. At one end, we have their low acceleration times and the limited number of buyers. At the other, their statistical outliers in horsepower, torque, and top speed are astonishing. The Bugatti W16 Mistral serves as a prime example.

Bugatti's Speed Records: A Legacy

Bugatti has a long history of setting top speed records. In June 2010, the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport reached an impressive 431.07 km/h (267.8 mph). Three years later, the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse hit 408.84 km/h (254 mph) with its roof panel off. Five years ago, the Chiron Super Sport 300+ achieved a top speed of 490.48 km/h (304.7 mph), as advertised. These records showcase Bugatti's engineering prowess.

Setting the New Top Speed Record

To place the 1,578-horsepower quad-turbo W16 Mistral in the record books, Bugatti took it to ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg GmbH. After warming up the bespoke tires, Bugatti Pilote Officiel and Le Mans-winning racer Andy Wallace accelerated to 200 km/h (124 mph) before entering the track's banking. Then, he floored the gas pedal and didn't let off until the speedometer reached the new record of 453.91 km/h (282 mph). "When it came to the moment itself, the experience was overwhelmingly thrilling; feeling the elemental forces from the open-top cockpit, the sound of the immense W16 engine emanating from the air scoops next to my ear – it made the achievement incredibly emotional," said Wallace.This wasn't just an individual feat. The owner of the W16 Mistral World Record Car witnessed history being made and rode shotgun next to Wallace as he achieved nearly the same speed that set the world record.The exposed black carbon fiber and Jet Orange W16 Mistral will join the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse, and Chiron Super Sport 300+ World Record Cars in The Singh Collection. This private car collection showcases the aspirational achievements of the Punjab community and the bold accomplishments of Bugatti's brilliant engineers and brave drivers.It's clear that hypercars are not just about speed; they represent a culmination of engineering excellence and a testament to human innovation. The Bugatti W16 Mistral is a shining example of what can be achieved when these elements come together.