1999 Bugatti EB218

With the Bugatti EB 218, the Volkswagen Group is presenting a new and fascinating vehicle at the Geneva Motor Show 1999 - a vehicle which will set new technical and aesthetic standards. The EB 218 follows on from the design and technical standards of the EB 118 study, which was shown at the Paris Motor Show 1998. The EB118 was produced by Giorgetto Giugiaro / ItalDesign under contract from Volkswagen and has been further developed to make this unmistakable four door saloon.

The past is the basis for the EB 218. It has the style of a modern car, but the form recalls important design elements of classic Bugatti models, whilst retaining its own character. The result is a uniquely aesthetic body shape with well-balanced proportions. Its characteristics are power and elegance.

The model name Bugatti EB 218 refers to the 18-cylinder engine, the first of its kind to be used in a passenger vehicle. This engine, which was developed at Volkswagen, has three rows of six-cylinder banks which are joined in the shape of a 'W'. With a displacement of 6.3 litres, the direct injection engine has an output of 408 kW / 555 bhp and a maximum torque of 650 Newton metres (Nm).

Aluminium space-frame technology has been used for the production of the body. The exterior aluminium cladding is finished in pearlescent 'Blu Notte Perlato'.

The harmonious lines of the body are continued in the comfortable and elegant interior. The instruments are oval in shape and the instrument panel is framed in the finest leather.

The interior is further enhanced through the use of light walnut. The special silk-finish leather is in 'biscuit' colour.

Permanent four-wheel drive and an aluminum multi-link suspension lend the Bugatti EB 218 impressive driving dynamics and excellent traction. The powerful and sporty appearance of the vehicle is underlined by the wide track and the long wheelbase with short body overhang. The Bugatti design can also be seen in the harmonious wheels made from shining magnesium. The Bugatti emblem EB is on the central lock. The vehicle is fitted with eye-catching 285/50 R 18 tyres.

by Volkwagen Group Press

When Ettore Bugatti died in 1947, the Bugatti Company ceased production. The long, historic, and prestigious lineage of the famous Bugatti Company was no more. That is until 1989 when an Italian entrepreneur named Romano Artioli purchased the rights to the Bugatti name and began automobile production in an area north of Modena, Italy.

To honor Ettore Bugatti, the EB 110 was created. 'EB' was short for Ettore Bugatti. Launched on Ettore's 110 birthday, 09-15-1991, the naming EB 110 was formed. It was first shown to the public at the Grande Arche at La Défense in Paris, France.

When the supercar market slowed down in 1995, the Bugatti Company was forced to file for bankruptcy. During the close of the 1990's, Volkswagen AG secured rights to the Bugatti name, again reviving the nameplate.

Bugatti continued its proud heritage in 1999 with the introduction of the EB 218, first shown to the public at the Geneva Motorshow. The EB 218 was a four-door saloon, unlike the EB 118, which had been a two-door coupe version. The EB 218 was the second prototype since the Volkswagen acquisition, thus the '2' in 218. The '18' represents the 18-cylinder engine. There are three rows of six cylinders joined together to form a 'W' shape. The engine is located in the front and powers all four wheels.

The Bugatti EB 218 is a tribute to beauty and luxury. Elegantly designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of ItalDesign, it compliments classic styling while being outfitted with state-of-the-art technology. A spoiler is carefully hidden in the back and springs to life at high speeds to provide stability and downforce. The body and chassis are constructed of a space-frame technology.

The interior instruments are oval in shape and framed in fine leather. A navigation system, when not in use, is hidden beneath a clock. Changing gears is easy and convenient with the buttons for the sequential transmission located on the steering wheel. The EB emblem is embroidered on the electrically adjustable head restraints. The seats provide ample room for their occupants and the footrests complete the ensemble.

Beginning in 2003, fifty examples per year were to be produced. This never materialized as plans for the EB 16/4 Veyron took precedence.

by Dan Vaughan