Bugatti Sur Mesure's '55 1 of 1' - A tribute to the Type 55.

Image: Bugatti

Bugatti news in the past week has been (rightfully) dominated by the introduction of the Tourbillon and the accompanying automaton watch from Jacob & Co.

What slipped under the radar for many (add us to that list) in the last month is the customer-commissioned '55 1 of 1', a special model of the Chiron Super Sport that pays tribute to the Bugatti Type 55. The '55 1 of 1' epitomizes the fusion of historical craftsmanship and modern engineering prowess.

Launched under Bugatti's bespoke Sur Mesure program, this exceptional hypercar not only celebrates the innovative spirit of Jean Bugatti but also integrates design elements that pay homage to the iconic Type 55 Super Sport.

Image: Bugatti

The original Type 55 Super Sport, introduced in 1931, was renowned for its cutting-edge engineering and aesthetic elegance. It features a 2.3-liter straight-eight engine with a top speed of 180km/h and a revolutionary duotone paint scheme. The car was the first in the line of Super Sport models from the brand. Since only 38 units were made, it became a coveted collector's car.

In this tribute, the Chiron Super Sport features the same striking black and yellow combination that made the Type 55 a visual masterpiece.

The design process involved meticulous detailing, such as the hand-applied fading '55' pattern above the headlights and over the fenders. It draws attention to the iconic horseshoe grille and narrows the appearance of the front end to reflect the fuselage shape of its predecessor.

Image: Bugatti

Inside, the car boasts sleek black leather with unique accents, including embroidered headrests and hand-stitched door panels that echo the exterior's color scheme. Jean Bugatti's signature on the door sill and the car's dedication plate further solidify the connection between the Chiron Super Sport and its illustrious ancestor.

This contemporary masterpiece not only preserves the historical essence of the Type 55 but also showcases Bugatti's commitment to blending tradition with innovation.

As the Bugatti Chiron approaches the end of its production run, it stands as a testament to the brand's ability to merge performance with artistry. The Chiron has been a symbol of extreme engineering and luxury since its debut, boasting a (now outgoing) quad-turbocharged W16 engine with unparalleled power and speed.

Image: Bugatti

With the recent announcement of the Bugatti Tourbillon, the successor to the Chiron, the automotive world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in Bugatti's storied legacy. The Tourbillon promises to continue the brand's tradition of excellence, further pushing the boundaries of automotive design and performance.

The Chiron's outgoing status makes the '55 1 of 1' commission a poignant tribute. This limited-edition model not only highlights the remarkable journey of Bugatti's engineering prowess but also honors the innovative spirit of Jean Bugatti.

The intricate details, from the minimalist black 10-spoke wheels with a yellow 'EB' emblem to the cursive '55 1 of 1' written under the rear wing, ensure this model is a fitting farewell to the Chiron era.