This 1926 Bugatti Miller 41 Type 35 started life as a type 35 Bugatti GP car. O.A. Phillips raced it in this form until he acquired the currently installed Miller V8 engine. The engine came from a Miller 4-wheel drive car that raced in Germany and blew up, throwing bits into the stands where Adolph Hitler was watching. Hitler was missed by inches. O.A. Phillips then swapped this Miller engine in and raced at Indianapolis in 1941 and 1946.
Design and Features
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Engine: The Bugatti Miller 41 Type 35 is powered by a 2.0-liter (1991 cc) straight-eight engine. This engine was known for its advanced design, featuring overhead camshafts and three valves per cylinder. It produced approximately 95 horsepower, making it potent for its era.
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Chassis and Suspension: The Type 35 chassis was lightweight and designed for agility on the race track. It featured advanced suspension with solid axles and leaf springs, providing a balance of stability and handling necessary for racing.
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Bodywork: The Type 35 was renowned for its distinctive and aerodynamic body design. It featured a sleek, low-slung profile with an open-wheel configuration typical of racing cars of the 1920s. The body was crafted from lightweight materials to enhance performance and maneuverability.
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Interior: The cockpit of the Type 35 was minimalist, focusing on the driver’s needs during competition. It featured a single racing seat, a large steering wheel for precise control, and basic instrumentation to monitor engine performance and track conditions.
Racing Success and Historical Significance
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Dominance in Grand Prix Racing: The Bugatti Type 35 is one of the most successful racing cars in history, winning numerous Grand Prix races and championships during the 1920s and 1930s. Its lightweight construction, advanced engine technology, and exceptional handling made it a formidable competitor on both road circuits and tracks.
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Innovation and Engineering Excellence: The collaboration between Bugatti and Miller resulted in a car that pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering at the time. The Type 35’s advanced engine design, coupled with its efficient chassis and aerodynamic bodywork, set new standards for performance and reliability in racing.
Collectibility and Legacy
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Rare and Coveted: Original Bugatti Type 35 cars are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their historical significance and racing pedigree. Each car was meticulously crafted and raced, contributing to its rarity and collectibility in the classic car market.
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Value: Well-preserved examples of the Bugatti Type 35 command significant prices at auctions, reflecting their historical importance and enduring appeal among automotive connoisseurs.
Legacy
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Influence on Motorsport: The Bugatti Type 35’s success and technological advancements influenced the development of racing cars and automotive engineering in the early 20th century. Its design principles and innovations continue to inspire modern-day racing vehicles and enthusiasts.
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Cultural Impact: The Bugatti Type 35 remains a symbol of elegance, performance, and craftsmanship in motorsport history. It is celebrated in classic car shows, museums, and literature, showcasing its enduring legacy as one of the greatest racing cars ever built.
You may purchase a print of the 1926 Bugatti Miller 41 Type 35 in our dElegance 2013 online gallery.