(continued from above)
"We were instantly electrified by the idea of transferring the power of the
Super Sport to the Grand Sport, which previously delivered a maximum of 1,001
hp, and thus taking the roadster to a new level," says Wolfgang Dürheimer.
The President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. continues: "Our team has managed to
transfer the world's most powerful car engine to the open-top sports car while
taking all vehicle dynamics and aerodynamic parameters into consideration. We
are proud to present the fastest roadster ever at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show
with the world premiere of the 1,200 hp Grand Sport Vitesse."
Dynamics in Figures
The new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse boasts a remarkable maximum
torque of 1106 lb-ft (1,500 Nm) at 3,000-5,000 rpm from the 7.9-liter capacity
of its W16 engine. The maximum output (1,200 hp) is reached at 6,400 rpm. These
figures allow the car to reach 60 mph from standing in unbelievable 2.5 seconds.
The top speed of 255 mph (410 km/h) makes the four-wheel drive (like all Veyrons)
Grand Sport Vitesse the fastest production roadster ever. The maximum speed is
reached on closed tracks with special safety precautions. In "normal" handling
mode, the Grand Sport Vitesse is electronically limited to 233 mph (375 km/h).
Optimized Drive System
The 199 hp increase over the Grand Sport has been mainly achieved by using four
larger turbochargers with new intercoolers. Furthermore, Bugatti has extensively
reinforced all drivetrain components in order to safely transfer the immense
forces at all times. The gearing of the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) in
particular has been adapted to the new requirements. In this context, as on the
Super Sport, Bugatti has also modified the air ducting in the area of the
drivetrain. As a consequence of the larger turbochargers and the overall reduced
back pressure, it was even possible to reduce the fuel consumption slightly
despite the increased output. The fuel system, with a four-pump tank, has been
taken from the Super Sport.

2012 Bugatti Veyron Vitesse, rear view.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse: Review (2/2)