The 1934 Bugatti Type 57 57104 was the fourth Type 57 chassis built by Bugatti. It is the oldest surviving Type 57 known. When this car was being restored it was decided to exactly recreate the famous aero coupe called the “Elektron” Coupe or the Aerolithe.
The original car has been fabricated from magnesium, as is this recreation. After being shown at the Paris Auto Show in October 1935 and being driven briefly in England in 1936, the car disappeared forever. This left only a handful of photographs as proof that it had ever existed. Interestingly enough, although this design proved a commercial failure for Bugatti, it influenced many of the important European coach-builders to create aerodynamic, art deco masterpieces for the balance of the 1930's.
The recreation cost millions to build, but it is a perfect recreation of the mysterious original Aerolithe.
Overview
- Production Years: 1934-1940
- Manufacturer: Bugatti
- Class: Luxury car / Grand Tourer
- Body Styles: Various coachbuilt styles, including coupes, convertibles, and sedans
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The Bugatti Type 57 was powered by a 3.3-liter (3257 cc) inline-eight engine.
- It featured an advanced overhead camshaft design and produced approximately 135 to 175 horsepower, depending on the model and configuration.
- Transmission:
- Equipped with a 4-speed manual gearbox, providing smooth and precise gear changes.
- Chassis:
- The car featured a strong and lightweight chassis, designed to accommodate various coachbuilt bodies and provide a comfortable ride.
- Suspension:
- Front: Independent suspension with solid axles and semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- Rear: Live axle with reversed quarter-elliptic leaf springs, ensuring stability and handling characteristics suitable for long-distance touring.
Performance
- Top Speed: Capable of reaching speeds up to 95 to 110 mph (153 to 177 km/h), depending on the body style and engine configuration.
- Comfort and Luxury:
- The Bugatti Type 57 was renowned for its luxurious interiors, featuring premium materials such as leather upholstery, fine wood trim, and intricate detailing.
- It offered spacious and comfortable seating for driver and passengers, combining performance with elegance for grand touring purposes.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The Type 57 was often fitted with bespoke coachwork by esteemed coachbuilders like Gangloff, Figoni & Falaschi, and Vanvooren.
- Styling elements included flowing lines, integrated fenders, and chrome accents, reflecting the Art Deco design influences of the era.
- Interior:
- The interior of the Bugatti Type 57 showcased Bugatti's commitment to craftsmanship and luxury, with attention to ergonomic design and driver-focused instrumentation.
Legacy
- Historical Significance:
- The Bugatti Type 57 represented a pinnacle of pre-war automotive engineering and luxury, embodying Ettore Bugatti's vision of combining performance with aesthetic beauty.
- Its timeless design and engineering excellence continue to influence automotive enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
- Collector's Item:
- Due to its rarity, historical significance, and exquisite design, the Bugatti Type 57 is highly prized by collectors and automotive enthusiasts.
- Original examples with authentic coachwork and well-documented histories command significant value at auctions, showcasing Bugatti's legacy of craftsmanship and innovation.
You may purchase a print of the 1934 Bugatti Type 57 in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.