France’s finest handcrafted automaker
Bugatti is picky before you buy
Choosing the right buyer
Bugatti, the prestigious French manufacturer of handcrafted luxury automobiles, was founded in 1909 by Ettore Bugatti, a Frenchman of Italian descent. Known for its opulent and high-priced cars, Bugatti’s brand is instantly recognizable even to those with limited automotive knowledge. Classic Bugatti models, like the Type 57 SC Atlantic, continue to fetch extraordinary sums at auctions, with one such model recently selling for $30 million.
Beyond the prohibitive cost and maintenance expenses, potential buyers face another significant hurdle: Bugatti’s stringent vetting process. The company carefully screens prospective owners, ensuring that only those who meet its strict criteria can purchase one of its exclusive vehicles.
Seven-step screening process before purchasing a Bugatti
You can’t just buy one even if you have plenty of money
To acquire a Bugatti, potential buyers must navigate a rigorous seven-stage examination process, often called the “seven ordeals of Bugatti.” This stringent process ensures that only qualified individuals can purchase one of these prestigious vehicles.
The first stage of this examination is Bugatti’s qualification test. This initial assessment evaluates whether a prospective buyer meets material and psychological ownership criteria. Given the substantial financial resources typically associated with Bugatti buyers, passing this stage is usually not a major hurdle. On average, Bugatti clientele possess extensive collections, including over 40 luxury cars, 2 airplanes, several yachts, renowned artworks, and multiple real estate holdings.
Bugatti buyers also take history lessons and even test-drive at airfields
The second stage of acquiring a Bugatti involves visiting Molsheim, France, where prospective buyers must attend a class on the brand’s history. At the Bugatti-owned castle in Molsheim, you’ll receive an in-depth overview of the vehicles crafted by Ettore Bugatti and his son, Jean Bugatti. This class can vary in length from 5 minutes to 5 hours, depending on the depth of the instruction.
The third stage requires a tour of the Bugatti factory in Molsheim. Here, an engineer will provide a detailed explanation of the production of Bugatti vehicles. This will allow you to witness and appreciate the meticulous manufacturing process and Bugatti’s stringent quality control standards firsthand.
The fourth stage involves a test drive of the Bugatti model you wish to purchase. While this step is not mandatory, it typically lasts between 20 minutes and 2 hours. You’ll be accompanied by a professional driver on a small airfield or track during the test drive. If the vehicle is damaged during this drive, you must purchase it immediately.
Initial deposit starts at about $262,000
All processes take a minimum of three years
The fifth stage involves making a deposit for your Bugatti purchase, divided into three installments. The initial deposit is approximately $262,000. The second installment is due nine months before the vehicle’s production, with the final balance paid upon receipt of the completed vehicle.
The sixth stage allows you to customize your Bugatti by selecting the exterior color, interior seats, and trim options.
The final, seventh stage ensures that your Bugatti is delivered exclusively. Completing all seven stages of this rigorous process typically takes at least three years. Even if you opt for the latest model, you will receive a vehicle at least three years old by then. If this timeline is not your liking, purchasing a used Bugatti is an alternative. However, this option means sacrificing the ability to customize the vehicle to your personal preferences. Bugatti takes pride in the meticulous process and the quality of the cars they produce, offering exceptional service to those who complete the rigorous selection process.
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