Near-Mythical Rarity: The Last of Three 1999 Bugatti EB112 Saloons

The 1999 Bugatti EB112 represents one of the most intriguing “what-if” stories in the history of high-performance motoring, bridging the gap between the Campogalliano era and the brand’s modern Molsheim rebirth. As the last of only three examples ever constructed, this specific chassis was completed for Monegasque businessman Gildo Pallanca Pastor using assets acquired after the original company’s bankruptcy. It is a near-mythical machine that successfully reimagined Ettore Bugatti’s legacy for the late 20th century, offering a level of exclusivity that dwarfs even the rarest modern hypercars. Now appearing at The Monaco Auction 2026, this 388-kilometer survivor offers a singular opportunity to possess the only modern four-door saloon to ever wear the horseshoe grille.

Giugiaro Artistry and Atlantic-Inspired Design Cues

The exterior of the EB112, penned by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro of ItalDesign, is a masterful exercise in flowing, organic forms that stand in stark contrast to the wedge-shaped supercars of its era. Its most striking feature is the longitudinal spine and split rear window, a direct homage to the iconic Type 57 SC Atlantic. The silhouette is defined by a dramatic fastback profile, while the vented alloy wheels provide a modern interpretation of those found on the titanic Type 41 Royale. Every detail, from the prominent horseshoe grille to the fluid curves of the aluminum bodywork, was designed to evoke a sense of timeless elegance. This example remains in “as new” condition, recently benefitting from over €37,000 in cosmetic and mechanical refinements to preserve its distinctive presence.

A Perlée-Finished Cabin of Restrained Opulence

Inside, the EB112 accommodates four passengers in a sanctuary of leather and precision-machined metal that anticipates the design language of the later Bugatti Veyron. The central dashboard and instrument cluster are adorned with aluminum panels featuring a classic Perlée finish, a nod to the engine-turned decorative patterns found on vintage Bugatti racers. Refinement is the primary focus, with “EB” logotypes embossed on the headrests and a layout that remains uncluttered and sophisticated. This second of two chassis completed by Pastor features an extraordinarily low odometer reading of just 388 kilometers, ensuring the interior materials remain as fresh as they were upon completion. For the ultimate touch of heritage, the car includes a bespoke umbrella featuring a scaled-down Rembrandt Bugatti elephant mascot handle.

Naturally Aspirated V-12 Power and Go-Kart Agility

Performance is delivered by a front-mounted 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V-12 engine, a derivative of the EB110’s quad-turbocharged unit but tuned here for effortless torque and linear power. This powerplant produces 460 hp/466 PS and 590 lb-ft/800 Nm, providing enough thrust to propel the saloon to a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). Power is sent to all four wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, featuring a 38:62 front-to-rear torque split for a dynamic, rear-biased driving feel. Despite its substantial presence, the EB112 was famously described by Romano Artioli as driving like a go-kart, thanks to its carbon fiber chassis and advanced internal suspension. The recent mechanical overhaul by Garage des Moneghetti and Lorrtec Race Engines ensures that this V-12 heart is in peak operating condition.

Benchmarking the EB112 Against Modern Super-Saloons

In the current market, the EB112 stands in a class of its own, as Bugatti has yet to release a production four-door model under Volkswagen ownership despite several high-profile concepts. While the Aston Martin Rapide or the Porsche Panamera Turbo S provide modern performance, they lack the carbon fiber construction and manual-gearbox engagement found in this Italian-born Bugatti. With one of the three examples held by ItalDesign and only two in private hands, the EB112 is significantly rarer than the EB110 supercar or even the legendary Type 41 Royale. Its unique selling point is the blend of 1990s analog mechanicals with the most advanced chassis technology available at the time, making it the ultimate “missing link” for the world’s most elite collections.

An Unparalleled Piece of Modern Marque History

Ownership of this 1999 Bugatti EB112 involves the stewardship of a vehicle that was personally retained by Gildo Pallanca Pastor until 2015. It has spent time in the prestigious Schlumpf Collection and has been a rare sight on the streets of Monaco, making it a well-known but seldom-seen icon of the Principality. Under current ownership, the car has received comprehensive maintenance, including repairs to the braking, suspension, and emissions systems, ensuring it meets the “as new” VAT criteria for export. With only two owners from new and a complete service history from specialists like Lorrtec, this EB112 is a turn-key entrance into the highest tier of automotive exclusivity. It remains an essential artifact for those who value the ambitious vision of Romano Artioli.

The Final Word on the Mythical Bugatti Saloon

The 1999 Bugatti EB112 is much more than a rare car; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of Ettore Bugatti’s original vision for high-speed luxury. By successfully adapting the world-beating technology of the EB110 into a four-door format, Bugatti Automobili created a vehicle that was decades ahead of its time. From the haunting wail of its naturally aspirated V-12 to the intricate Perlée finish in the cockpit, it offers an experience that no other modern saloon can replicate. As it prepares to cross the block at The Monaco Auction 2026, it stands as a bold reminder of Bugatti’s peak ambition. For the discerning collector, it is the ultimate expression of exclusivity and elegance.

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Source: rmsothebys.com