Grey Carbon Bugatti Chiron Emerges as a Coveted Collector’s Hypercar

Ten years after its debut, the Bugatti Chiron continues to gain value among collectors, with this Grey Carbon example highlighting the enduring appeal of the marque’s 1,500-horsepower W16-powered flagship.

New automobiles experience significant depreciation during their initial hundred miles—unless they bear a red Bugatti emblem, of course. Consider this 2018 Chiron, for instance. The successor of the Molsheim, France-based brand's Veyron, which defined the 21st century, commenced at approximately $2.6 million upon its 2016 launch. Despite displaying 1,848 kilometers (about 1,150 miles) on the odometer, it is anticipated to fetch between $2.85 and $3.5 million at the conclusion of RM Sotheby’s current online auction.

A decade later, the specifications of the Chiron remain extraordinary—its 261 mph top speed (accessible through a “High Speed Key”), 1,500 horsepower, and 1,180 pound-feet of torque generated by its 8.0-liter, quad-turbo W16 engine are surpassed only by the most aggressive electrified hypercars and Bugatti’s 1,800-horsepower successor, the Tourbillon. The amalgamation of exceptional performance with a limited manufacturing of merely 500 units over eight years accounts for the Chiron's valuation increase. This chassis, No. VF9SP3V38JM795118, is an original Chiron, one of the initial 200 manufactured prior to the production of the additional 300 Pur Sport, Super Sport, and other variants.

It is meticulously detailed with the exceptionally costly exposed carbon bodywork, an enhancement that allegedly incurred a $290,000 expense for the original purchaser. The appearance is enhanced with an aluminum "signature line," which accentuates the Bugatti C-line and the horseshoe grille. The sinister design is complemented by diamond-cut Nocturne wheels paired with Cast Grey brake calipers, while the interior showcases a combination of Beluga Black and Gris Rafale trim, accented with silver embroidery on the steering wheel.

Sami Sasso/RM Sotheby's

This Chiron, delivered new in Japan's capital through Bugatti Tokyo, was acquired by its inaugural owner in May 2018. The vehicle was returned to its supplying dealership in August 2020 for a standard inspection and, upon completion, was noted to have only 488 km recorded. A second examination occurred in July 2021 and a third in June 2022, with the Chiron arriving to Bugatti Tokyo exhibiting merely 498 kilometres.

In November 2023, with 520 km recorded on the odometer, the car was acquired by the consigning owner through the Pupil of Fate Motors franchise in Dubai. The subsequent month, they registered the vehicle for road use in the United Arab Emirates. The Grey Carbon bodywork underwent minor modifications, featuring Chiron Super Sport-style racing stripes that span the front luggage compartment, roof, integrated engine cover, and large active rear wing. The numeral "9" was incorporated onto the front grille, as the vehicle is currently displayed. Individuals interested in acquiring this instant-classic hypercar may submit a bid at RM Sotheby’s prior to July 10.