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The Executive Behind The Most Powerful Hypercars In The World Keeps A Rare Volkswagen Golf In His Garage, Revealing How Tradition, Technology, And A Passion For Driving Shape Even The Most Surprising Tastes In The Elite Automotive Universe.
When talking about CEOs of large automakers, the image that usually comes to mind is that of sober executives, dressed in suits and adopting moderate and conservative postures.
However, Mate Rimac, the current CEO of Bugatti, completely defies this stereotype.
Known for his passion for high-performance electric cars, Rimac built his career revolutionizing vehicles with technologies that few dare to explore.
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An Unlikely Beginning
It all started with an unusual project: a 1983 BMW E30 with a broken engine, which he transformed into one of the most powerful electric cars of its time.
Nicknamed “Green Monster”, Rimac’s electric car developed an impressive 600 horsepower, winning the title of the world’s fastest accelerating electric car in 2011.
This feat caught the attention of the automotive industry and marked the beginning of the Croatian entrepreneur’s journey.
BMW Collector And A Special VW
Over time, Mate Rimac has collected various models from BMW, his favorite brand, including iconic examples like the M5 E39, M3 E30 Sport Evolution, in addition to driving sporty models like the Z4 M Coupe and F90 M5 Competition.
He also had an M3 CSL E46 and an M6 E64 equipped with a V-10 engine in his garage, which confirms his taste for powerful machines with a competition pedigree.
But the executive does not live solely on BMWs.
Surprisingly, Rimac’s garage includes a very special Volkswagen Golf — a fifth-generation Golf R32, five-door version with a six-speed DSG transmission and a key reminiscent of the legendary Bugatti Veyron.
This Golf, despite being discreet by Rimac’s standards, is a true treasure for those who know its history.
The Golf R32 And The Futuristic Vision
When it was launched, the Golf R32 offered a VR-6 engine and came with both manual and DSG transmissions.
Rimac proudly drives his example but believes that a modern restoration focused on internal improvements and technological connectivity would make it one of the most incredible hot hatches on the market.
This look into the past with a futuristic touch perfectly reflects the profile of the CEO, who combines automotive tradition with technological innovation.
Strategic Decisions At Bugatti And Volkswagen
In addition to his fascination for historical models, Mate Rimac played a crucial role in the strategic direction of Bugatti and the Volkswagen Group.
According to reports, he was the one who convinced the group to abandon the idea of turning the successor of the Bugatti Chiron into an electric SUV, preferring to invest in a high-performance hypercar.
Thus, the Tourbillon was born, equipped with a naturally aspirated V-16 engine of 8.3 liters, reinforcing Bugatti’s identity as a manufacturer of exclusive and radical machines.
The Craziest Golf Projects
Rimac’s passion for the Golf goes beyond the R32 version.
There is even a curious history within Volkswagen, which has previously attempted to combine the Golf with unimaginable engines.
For instance, the Golf GTI W12-650 concept, based on the fifth generation of the hatch, was equipped with a W12 engine producing 641 horsepower from the Bentley Continental GT, installed behind the front seats.
Although it never made it to production, this project showcases how versatile and inspiring the Golf can be for enthusiasts and executives like Rimac.
Another example of an unofficial project was the functional prototype with a 500-horsepower V10 engine, also based on the Golf Mk5, which did not go into production but reveals Volkswagen’s ambition to explore extreme versions of its traditional models.
CEOs Who Love Sports Cars
This profile of enthusiast CEO is not exclusive to Mate Rimac.
Christian von Koenigsegg, founder of the Swedish hypercar manufacturer Koenigsegg, for instance, has revealed that he would spend his last tank of fuel in the Mazda Miata he bought when he was 19 years old, a car known for its fun driving experience.
Ivan Espinosa, the new president of Nissan, also demonstrates his passion by using a Nissan Z daily to commute to work.
These examples of leaders passionate about cars bring hope to motorsport fans, showing that automotive culture and the joy of driving still have a place in a world dominated by SUVs, electrification, and cost-cutting.
The Future Of Sports Cars According To Enthusiasts
With the advancement of technologies, many believe that sports cars and manuals will disappear, but the influence of executives like Rimac and his peers keeps alive the flame of vehicles that prioritize the pleasure of driving.
Moreover, the commitment of these CEOs to technological innovation is evident as they combine performance, sustainability, and connectivity in their projects, paving the way for an automotive future that respects the past while looking to the future.
Thus, the Volkswagen Golf R32 of Bugatti’s CEO is not just a car: it is a symbol of passion, nostalgia, and future.
A vehicle that carries the essence of an enthusiast who knows how to balance tradition and cutting-edge.
Do you believe that the influence of passionate CEOs can preserve the culture of sports cars amid the revolution of electric vehicles and SUVs? Share your opinion!
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