Bugatti CEO Mate Rimac considers V16 with manual transmission

Bugatti CEO Mate Rimac has expressed strong interest in developing a Bugatti model featuring a manual transmission. Speaking during Monterey Car Week, Rimac stated he is “100%” in agreement with the idea of pairing the brand's new V16 engine with a “real manual gearbox,” distinguishing it from the simulated manual systems used by some competitors.

The potential project would likely involve the new V16 engine found in the Tourbillon model. This 8.3-liter, naturally aspirated engine produces 1,000 horsepower and is designed to work alongside electric motors in current configurations, but a manual version would represent a significant shift toward traditional driving engagement for collectors.