Christmas is just one week away and every city is already decorated with Christmas trees, fairy lights, and illuminated stars. However, due the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic festivities aren't as spectacular as they used to be, with most Christmas markets cancelled to limit the spread of the virus.

The city of Molsheim, home to Bugatti's headquarters, had to do the same, so the French automaker stepped in to spread holiday cheer with the unique La Voiture Noire. The one-off supercar is now on exhibit in a glass container in the city center of Molsheim, right next to the decorated Christmas tree.

Although it might not attract as many visitors as a Christmas market, the exhibit enables passers-by to marvel at the La Voiture Noire. If you're a car enthusiast, this is nothing to sneeze at, as the La Voiture Noire is a one-off that already has an owner. It's a rare opportunity to see it in the metal and get a bit more personal with the most expensive new car in the world.

Actually, the car on display is a concept car that Bugatti will keep, with the actual customer version still under construction. But it's still a vehicle that you won't see very often.

Bugatti introduced the La Voiture Noire at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. It is based on the Chiron, but it's completely new on the outside, designed as a tribute to the iconic Type 57 SC Atlantic. It features an elongated nose and rear section, just like the Divo, as well as unique wing mirrors and an LED taillight strip. The La Voiture Noire is powered by the same 8.0-liter W-16 as the regular Chiron, so it's rated at 1,479 horsepower and 1,180 pound-feet of torque. But it's supposed to be a bit more comfortable to drive thanks heavily revised gearbox and AWD systems, as well as softer dampers.

Bugatti La Voiture Noir specifications

Engine

W16 8.0 liters

Power

1,479 hp @ 6,700 rpm

Torque

1,180 lb-ft @ 2,000 - 6,000 rpm

0 to 60 mph

2.4 seconds

Top Speed

260 mph (est.)


Not the kind of car Santa Claus would drive, but I'd take a Bugatti on display over a Christmas market any day of the week.