2005 Bugatti Veyron: 100 cars that matter

The well-funded VW tinkered with Bugatti's mission. Would Bugatti become an ultra-luxury carmaker, and based on the two concept cars presented in 1998 and 1999, it could have. Instead, Bugatti unveiled a different kind of car at the end of 1999, called the 18/3 Shillon.

It signaled the direction of VW's reborn brand and heralded the Bugatti Veyron, which would appear six years later.

See also: Bugatti Veyron oil change witnessed for $21,000

The 18/3 signaled the possibility of a mid-engine supercar, and Bugatti introduced the EB 18/4. 2000 saw the introduction of the EB 16/4 concept, the future powertrain of the Veyron 8.0-liter W 16-cylinder quad-turbocharged engine, was decided upon.

VW promised production of the EB 16/4 a year later, beginning a competition that would mark the dawn of a new era for Bugatti.

After a long production hold, the first Bugatti Veyrons were delivered in 2005. Its specifications were off the charts. The first Veyron produced 987 horsepower, had a permanent all-wheel drive system, and a top speed of 253.81 mph (148.8 km/h).

The world immediately took notice. The Veyron quickly became a must-have in the garages of high-end collectors. On bedroom walls around the world, the Veyron joined other hot metals as the latest poster car for children.

Five years after its original debut, Bugatti upped the ante and introduced the 1,184-horsepower Veyron Super Sport. The car was limited to 30 units and could go 267 mph; twice in a decade, Bugatti created the fastest production car in the world.

In 2015, Bugatti ended production of the Veyron and prepared to make a new page in history with its next supercar; in 2016, the Chiron replaced the record-setting Veyron.

However, the Chiron has garnered little of the publicity and enthusiasm that the Veyron did. Although difficult to frame, the Veyron attracted enthusiasts and the public with something special, a rare element. But the path that Bugatti laid down with the Veyron will forever make the Chiron a pioneer.

Note to readers: Motor Authority has compiled a list of 100 cars that changed enthusiasts forever. From supercars to sedans, SUVs to muscle cars, these are the cars that ignited our love for cars. Do you think we missed something? Leave a comment below or contact us here.