The Bugatti Veyron display was nothing short of spectacular, featuring seven different versions that trace the evolution of this groundbreaking supercar. Launched in 2005, the Veyron stunned the world with its 987-horsepower W16 quad-turbo engine and a top speed exceeding 250 mph, setting new standards for performance cars. The display included rare prototypes like the fifth and final test car, which sported unique aerodynamic vents and was once the personal car of Ferdinand Piech, the mastermind behind the Veyron’s engineering marvels. The Veyron’s story is one of relentless innovation, from its original form to the convertible variants and the ultra-powerful Super Sport model pushing nearly 1,200 horsepower.
Alongside Bugatti’s legend, the lawn showcased eight pristine Alpina models, celebrating six decades of tuning excellence. Starting from humble beginnings with Burkard Bovensiepen’s custom carburetors in the 1960s, Alpina grew into a brand synonymous with refined performance and craftsmanship. Highlights included a flawless 1986 B6 E30, boasting a powerful 3.5-liter engine and a fascinating ownership history, and a 1990s B7 Turbo in signature Alpina green, exemplifying the brand’s tasteful approach to performance upgrades. Alpina’s modifications go beyond power boosts, enhancing suspension, efficiency, and ride quality, making their cars uniquely balanced and desirable.
The tour also touched on other notable marques like Facel Vega and even celebrated the 60th birthday of the Ford Transit van, a workhorse beloved by builders, musicians, and delivery drivers alike. The Transit’s wide track and practical design revolutionized the van segment, making it a stable and comfortable choice that could carry standardized pallets, a key to its enduring success.
Smith & Sniff’s engaging commentary brings this collection to life, blending technical insight with humor and passion. Their tour of the Cartier lawn at Goodwood is a perfect snapshot of automotive history and culture, showcasing how innovation, heritage, and style continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.