Bugattis are renowned for their luxury and performance, but they also come with a hefty price tag, both in terms of initial purchase and maintenance costs. Take, for example, the Veyron’s specially engineered Michelin PAX run-flats. If you happen to burn through all the rubber on these tires while cruising at top speed (which happens quite quickly), you’ll need to ship the rims all the way to France for resoling, a service that can set you back a staggering $70,000.

Now, imagine stumbling upon a 2015 Bugatti Atlantis Phantom listed for a mere $65,000 (or best offer) on Hemmings. It sounds almost too good to be true, doesn’t it? This particular model is undoubtedly the steal of the year, if not the decade, or dare we say, the century.

You might be wondering why you’ve never heard of the Bugatti Atlantis Phantom before. That’s because there is only one in existence, making it significantly more exclusive than even the illustrious Veyron or the highly coveted 57S Atlantic.

One interesting fact about the Atlantis Phantom is that it is built on a C4 Corvette chassis, a departure from the Veyron’s design. Additionally, unlike its high-tech counterpart, this model boasts a manual transmission, appealing to car enthusiasts who prefer a more hands-on driving experience.

Despite being a recent construction, the Atlantis Phantom exudes a nostalgic charm reminiscent of Virgil Exner’s neoclassics. The distinctive deco pontoon fenders, reminiscent of the renowned Figoni et Falaschi and other master coachbuilders’ works, add an assertive touch that sets this car apart. It exudes an air of pure unadulterated class, appealing to those seeking a unique and stylish ride.

Now, some might argue that this isn’t a “real” Bugatti. But what defines real in today’s world? Does the mere ownership of a hallowed trademark guarantee authenticity? Is this small-scale builder any less deserving of recognition than its Volkswagen subsidiary? After all, Bugatti, as we know it today, effectively ceased operations in 1952. This hand-crafted coupe represents an intriguing blend of heritage and innovation, making it a topic worth defending, even if the reasons aren’t entirely clear.

To truly appreciate the allure of the Bugatti Atlantis Phantom, head over to Hemmings and explore the classifieds for yourself. And if you decide to make this extraordinary purchase, we implore you to join the American Bugatti Club and share your experiences. We’re genuinely curious to hear how that conversation unfolds, for it’s not every day that an automotive rarity like the Atlantis Phantom comes into the possession of a lucky enthusiast.