Numerous masterpieces within the realm of fine art convey narratives that captivate audiences and stand the test of time. Bugatti has ingeniously ventured into this creative territory with a monumental creation of its own – introducing the exclusive Bugatti Chiron Super Sport “Golden Era” hypercar, a true masterpiece within the Chiron model lineage.
Unveiled today, this remarkable automobile was a bespoke endeavor undertaken by Bugatti’s customization division, Bugatti Sur Mesure, and required a meticulous two-year span to come to fruition. Serving as the foundational canvas for this gallery-worthy masterpiece was the Chiron Super Sport, boasting an astounding 1,578 horsepower, a model variant meticulously crafted for unparalleled velocity. This engineering marvel boasts a claimed top speed of 273 mph, propelled by a 16-cylinder powerhouse generating an impressive 1,180 ft lbs of torque. Its acceleration is equally breathtaking, as the Super Sport rockets from 0 to 62 mph in an astonishing 2.4 seconds, thanks to its seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Achim Anscheidt, Bugatti’s design director during the project’s conception, shared that a cherished client of the brand recognized the significance of the Super Sport and its internal combustion engine, desiring to pay homage before the era of electrification. Anscheidt remarked in the official announcement, “He envisioned a truly unparalleled celebration.” He further explained, “We delved into Bugatti’s illustrious history to identify pivotal moments.” Anscheidt elaborated that the car’s exterior design would incorporate “45 meticulously hand-drawn sketches of the brand’s iconic symbols,” forming a heartfelt tribute. Notably, this unique creation also serves as a tribute to Anscheidt, who has recently retired from his esteemed role at Bugatti.
The car is adorned with a dual-tone color scheme, transitioning from a metallic Nocturne Black to a resplendent Doré gold. This artistically adorned exterior features 19 intricate sketches on the driver’s side door, recounting Bugatti’s journey from its revival in 1987 to the present day, highlighting iconic models such as the EB110, Veyron, Chiron, and the revered W16 engine. On the passenger side, the sketches harken back to Bugatti’s origins, showcasing models like the 1926 Type 41 Royale and the legendary 1930s-era Type 57 SC Atlantic, along with a depiction of Bugatti’s historic Château St. Jean in Molsheim, France.
The artistry of the vehicle is not only evident in its design but also in the meticulous craftsmanship of the artists themselves. Anscheidt conveyed, “It was evident from the outset that authenticity in these sketches could only be achieved if we employed the same pens we use for sketching on paper—anything less would compromise quality.” This technique enabled them to painstakingly render all the sketches by hand, directly onto the car’s paintwork, necessitating over 400 hours of dedicated work.
The legacy of Bugatti is seamlessly carried into the car’s interior, where the three contemporary models are artistically applied through brushwork onto the driver’s door’s leather panel. On the passenger side, the 1924 Type 35 joins the Royale and Atlantic in a captivating display. Prominent plaques and emblems include door-sill plates embossed with “1909-1956,” commemorating the original era of the marque, and “1987-2023,” marking Bugatti’s present incarnation.
In the announcement of this debut, Anscheidt aptly describes the “Golden Era” Chiron Super Sport as “arguably the most intricate piece of personalized craftsmanship my team and I have ever undertaken.” Poetically, the fortunate recipient of this exquisitely executed homage will take possession during Northern California’s Monterey Car Week, an event mirroring the automobile’s journey through milestones of automotive history.
