Image of 1939 Bugatti Type 57, sourced from fristartmuseum.org , Image Link.

The Quintessential Grand Tourer: 1939 Bugatti Type 57

The 1939 Bugatti Type 57 stands as a paragon of pre-war automotive excellence, a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of its era. Crafted by the legendary French automaker, Bugatti, this model was birthed from the genius of Jean Bugatti, son of the company's founder Ettore. The Type 57's introduction in the late 1930s marked a pinnacle in luxury and performance, setting it apart in a period defined by remarkable engineering feats. A notable moment in its storied history is the Type 57SC Atlantic variant, which has become one of the most coveted and valuable collector cars in existence.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the Type 57 was a symphony of flowing lines and elegant proportions, often crowned with coachbuilt bodies from renowned designers such as Figoni et Falaschi and Gangloff. Its elongated bonnet, sweeping fenders, and teardrop-shaped motifs were hallmarks of automotive fashion. Inside, occupants were treated to an opulent cabin featuring sumptuous leather, rich wood trim, and bespoke craftsmanship that catered to the most discerning tastes. Technologically advanced for its time, the Type 57 boasted a twin-cam engine—a rarity among road cars then—and cable-operated brakes that were considered cutting-edge. Color options ranged from stately blacks and blues to more vibrant hues that accentuated its striking silhouette. Among various body styles, the Atlantic coupe remains the most iconic, with its distinctive dorsal seam and riveted flanges.

Historical Significance

The Bugatti Type 57 was more than just a car; it was an influencer in automotive design and engineering. Its sophisticated underpinnings and performance capabilities set new standards for grand touring vehicles. The Type 57's design language echoed through subsequent generations of automobiles, cementing Bugatti's reputation for creating rolling works of art that were as fast as they were beautiful.

Performance and Handling

The heart of the Type 57 lay in its robust 3.3-liter inline-eight engine which propelled it to top speeds nearing 95 mph—a remarkable feat at the time. The supercharged version found in the Type 57SC could even reach speeds up to 120 mph. Its acceleration was brisk for a grand tourer of its size, with a surge of power that delivered a genteel thrust rather than an abrupt punch. On winding roads or over imperfections, the Type 57 handled with grace and poise, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. Driving one was an auditory delight as well; the engine's sonorous hum was music to any enthusiast's ears.

Ownership Experience

Originally intended for the affluent who desired speed wrapped in luxury, the Type 57 served various roles from daily conveyance for aristocrats to weekend racers for spirited drivers. Maintenance requires specialized knowledge due to its unique mechanical components and handcrafted nature; however, reliability was commendable when considering its complexity.

Fun Facts

The Bugatti Type 57 series included several rare editions like the aforementioned Atlantic and the Atalante coupe. Celebrity ownerships have included fashion icon Ralph Lauren and British royal family members. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own as a formidable endurance racer with respectable showings at competitions like Le Mans.

Collector's Information

Today, a genuine Bugatti Type 57 is a blue-chip asset in any collection. With only about 710 units produced across all variants, they are exceedingly rare finds on the market. Values can range significantly based on provenance and condition but typically fall well into seven figures—with exceptional models like the Atlantic commanding eight-figure sums at auction.

Conclusion

In reflecting upon the grandeur of pre-war automotive mastery, few models capture the imagination quite like the 1939 Bugatti Type 57. It remains an enduring symbol of elegance and performance—an heirloom from an era where cars were not just modes of transport but moving masterpieces crafted with passion and precision.

1939 Bugatti Type 57 Headlight Pads. 3" wide X 8-1/8" long. Pair-MP 337-AHeadlight Pads. 3" wide X 8-1/8" long. Pair

1939 Bugatti Type 57 Door Handle Pads. 1-3/8" wide X 2-1/4" long. Pair-MP 337-BDoor Handle Pads. 1-3/8" wide X 2-1/4" long. Pair