1980 Bugatti EB110: The Forgotten Supercar
Introduction
In the world of supercars, there are few names that evoke the same level of luxury and exclusivity as Bugatti. Founded in 1909, the French manufacturer has been synonymous with high-performance and sleek design. One of the most iconic and often forgotten models in Bugatti's history is the 1980 Bugatti EB110. In this article, we'll delve into the story of this extraordinary supercar and explore its features, design, and legacy.
The EB110: A New Era for Bugatti
In the late 1970s, Bugatti was facing financial difficulties, and it seemed as though the company was on the brink of collapse. However, in 1979, Italian businessman Romano Artioli purchased the company and set out to revive its glory days. The result was the EB110, named in honor of Ettore Bugatti, the company's founder.
Design and Features
The EB110 was a stunning example of Italian design meets French flair. The sleek, wedge-shaped body was penned by Marcello Gandini, the renowned designer behind the Lamborghini Countach. The car's angular lines, pop-up headlights, and massive alloy wheels gave it a futuristic appearance that was unlike anything else on the road.
Under the hood, the EB110 boasted a 3.5-liter, quad-turbocharged V12 engine producing 560 horsepower and 447 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant was mated to a five-speed manual transmission and powered all four wheels, making the EB110 one of the first production cars to feature all-wheel drive.
Performance
The EB110's performance was nothing short of breathtaking. With a 0-60 mph time of just 4.2 seconds, it was one of the fastest production cars of its time. The top speed was electronically limited to 212 mph, making it a true rival to the Ferrari F40 and Lamborghini Diablo.
Legacy
Despite its impressive performance and striking design, the EB110 was not without its flaws. The car's complex all-wheel-drive system and turbocharged engine made it notoriously difficult to maintain, and the high production costs led to a steep price tag. As a result, only 139 EB110s were produced between 1991 and 1995, making it a rare and highly sought-after collector's item today.
Conclusion
The 1980 Bugatti EB110 is a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and excellence. Although it may not have achieved the commercial success of its contemporaries, it remains an important chapter in Bugatti's history and a reminder of the company's unwavering dedication to building the most extraordinary cars in the world.
