New cars depreciate an almost painful amount within their first hundred miles—unless they happen to sport a red Bugatti roundel, of course. Take this 2018 Chiron, for example. the follow-up to the Molsheim, France-based marque’s 21st-century-defining Veyron started at around $2.6 million when it debuted in 2016. While it shows 1,848 kilometers (just under 1,150 miles) on the odometer, it’s expected to hammer for between $2.85 and $3.5 million come the close of RM Sotheby’s ongoing online auction.
A decade later, and the Chiron’s specs are still considered insane—the 261 mph top speed (unlockable via a “High Speed Key”), 1,500 horsepower, and 1,180 pound-feet of torque developed in its 8.0-liter, quad-turbo W16 are only bested by today’s most aggro electrified hypercars and Bugatti’s 1,800-horsepower successor, the Tourbillon.
The combination of top-tier performance with a low-volume production run of just 500 examples over eight years explains the Chiron’s appreciation. And this one, chassis No. VF9SP3V38JM795118, is an OG Chiron, being one of the first 200 produced before the 300 remaining Pur Sport, Super Sport, and other variations were created.
It’s also exquisitely specified with the extraordinarily expensive exposed carbon bodywork, an upgrade that reportedly cost the original buyer $290,000. The exterior feature is complemented by an aluminum “signature line,” which highlights the Bugatti C-line and the horseshoe grille. Continuing the dark scheme, diamond-cut Nocturne wheels sit in front of Cast Grey brake calipers, and the interior features a combo of Beluga Black and Gris Rafale cladding with silver stitching on the steering wheel.
RM Sotheby’s has more on this car’s provenance:
Delivered new in the capital city of Japan via Bugatti Tokyo, this Chiron was collected by its first owner in May 2018. The car returned to its supplying dealership in August 2020 for routine inspection and, upon completion, was recorded as showing a mere 488 kilometres. A second inspection was conducted in July 2021 and a third in June 2022, with the Chiron arriving at Bugatti Tokyo displaying only 498 kilometres.
In November 2023, logged with 520 kilometres on the odometer, the car was purchased by the consigning owner via the Pupil of Fate Motors franchise in Dubai. The following month, they registered the car for road use in the United Arab Emirates. The Grey Carbon exterior was lightly revised, courtesy of the addition of Chiron Super Sport-style racing stripes that extend over the front luggage compartment, roof and integrated engine cover, and prominent active rear wing. The number “9” was also added to the front grille, as the car presents today.
Those who want to own this instant-classic hypercar can head to RM Sotheby’s to place a bid before July 10.