The Bugatti Centodieci is a limited-edition hypercar that stands as a tribute to Bugatti’s rich heritage, particularly honoring the iconic EB110, a model that redefined the brand in the 1990s. Unveiled in 2019 at Pebble Beach, the Centodieci marks Bugatti’s 110th anniversary, blending modern engineering with a nostalgic nod to its past.
### Design and Aesthetics
The Centodieci’s design is a contemporary reinterpretation of the EB110, but with sharper, more aggressive lines that suit modern tastes. The front end features a smaller, horseshoe-shaped grille, a signature Bugatti element, flanked by narrow, slit-like LED headlights that give the car a menacing look. The front bumper is designed with large air intakes to ensure optimal cooling for the engine, while the overall silhouette is sleek, with a low-slung roofline and a wide stance that screams performance.
One of the most distinctive design elements of the Centodieci is its rear, which features a unique five-hole air extractor design that not only aids in cooling the engine but also gives the car a distinctive visual identity. The rear is dominated by an aggressive diffuser and a large, fixed rear wing, which contributes to downforce, ensuring that the car remains glued to the road even at high speeds.
The car is finished with a set of bespoke alloy wheels that complement its aggressive stance, and the Centodieci badge is prominently displayed, highlighting its exclusivity.
### Performance and Engineering
Under the hood, the Bugatti Centodieci is powered by an 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W16 engine, the same powerhouse found in the Chiron but with some tweaks to enhance performance. The engine produces a staggering 1,600 horsepower, which is 100 horsepower more than the Chiron. This immense power allows the Centodieci to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.4 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 236 mph (380 km/h).
The Centodieci’s performance is further enhanced by a lightweight chassis and body, which incorporates extensive use of carbon fiber. This reduces the car’s overall weight by 44 pounds (20 kg) compared to the Chiron, which contributes to its improved acceleration and handling characteristics.
### Aerodynamics
The aerodynamics of the Centodieci have been meticulously crafted to balance the demands of high-speed stability and cooling. The fixed rear wing and enlarged front splitter work in harmony to produce significant downforce, ensuring that the car remains stable at high speeds. The design of the rear also optimizes airflow around the car, reducing drag and improving overall efficiency.
### Interior
Inside, the Bugatti Centodieci is a blend of luxury and sportiness, with a cockpit that reflects the car’s performance-oriented nature. The interior is fully customizable, with options for bespoke materials and finishes, allowing each of the 10 owners to tailor the car to their personal tastes. The seats are designed to provide maximum support during high-speed driving while ensuring comfort over long distances.
The dashboard and center console are minimalistic, with high-quality materials such as carbon fiber, Alcantara, and premium leather dominating the cabin. Modern infotainment features are integrated seamlessly, though they are kept understated to maintain the focus on driving.
### Production and Exclusivity
Bugatti has limited the production of the Centodieci to just 10 units, making it one of the most exclusive cars in the world. Each unit was priced at around $9 million, reflecting not only its performance and craftsmanship but also its rarity and status as a collector’s item. The Centodieci was sold out shortly after its announcement, with each car being built to the specifications of its owner, ensuring that no two are exactly alike.
### Heritage and Inspiration
The Centodieci’s name, which means 110 in Italian, is a direct reference to the EB110, a car that was groundbreaking for its time. The EB110 was known for its advanced engineering and was the first Bugatti to feature a carbon-fiber monocoque, all-wheel drive, and a quad-turbocharged V12 engine. The Centodieci pays homage to this legacy, not just in name but in design cues such as the five circular air intakes, which echo the EB110’s design.
The car also celebrates Bugatti’s history of pushing the boundaries of what is possible in automotive engineering, standing as a testament to the brand’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence.
### Driving Experience
Driving the Bugatti Centodieci is an experience unlike any other. The sheer power of the W16 engine, combined with the car’s lightweight construction and advanced aerodynamics, delivers a level of performance that few cars can match. The acceleration is brutal yet controlled, with the car’s all-wheel-drive system ensuring that all 1,600 horsepower is effectively transmitted to the road.
The handling is precise and responsive, with the car’s aerodynamics providing exceptional stability even at speeds that would be terrifying in most other vehicles. The braking system, featuring carbon-ceramic discs, offers immense stopping power, bringing the car to a halt with confidence.
Despite its extreme performance capabilities, the Centodieci is also surprisingly comfortable, with a suspension system that can be adjusted for different driving conditions. Whether on a racetrack or a long-distance drive, the Centodieci offers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined.
### Conclusion
The Bugatti Centodieci is more than just a hypercar; it is a celebration of Bugatti’s storied history and a showcase of the brand’s relentless pursuit of perfection. With its breathtaking design, unparalleled performance, and extreme exclusivity, the Centodieci is a fitting tribute to both the EB110 and Bugatti’s 110-year legacy. For the lucky few who own one, the Centodieci is not just a car; it is a piece of automotive history, a symbol of status, and a testament to the pinnacle of automotive engineering.