The 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante Coupe version of Ettore Bugatti's classic racing car reflects the maturation of his son Jean. Initially considered a radical departure from established Bugatti practice, Ettore instructed his son to abandon the extreme prototype as soon as he became aware of it.
The engine of the Type 57 is a dual overhead camshaft inline eightcylinder, with the cylinder block and head cast as one piece and bolted to an aluminum six bearing crankcase. Raised among a family of artists, the machines produced by Ettore and Jean were a result of artistic craftsmanship. The Type 57 provided a basis upon which Jean could display his talent as a designer of coachwork which would later become known for its fluidity, elegance, proportion and creative use of color.
Though the Type 57 became available in a variety of coach-built body styles, the Atalante coupe remains among the rarest. Among 607 Type 57's built, there are only 17 with this unique design.
Design and Features
- Manufacturer: Bugatti, a prestigious French automotive manufacturer founded by Ettore Bugatti, celebrated for its craftsmanship and engineering excellence.
- Body Style: The Bugatti Type 57 Atalante Coupe is a two-door coupe, characterized by its sleek, aerodynamic design and luxurious appointments.
- Coachwork: The Atalante body style was designed and built by Gangloff, a Swiss coachbuilder known for their collaboration with Bugatti, emphasizing bespoke craftsmanship and style.
- Chassis: Built on Bugatti's Type 57 chassis, which was renowned for its advanced engineering and robust construction, providing a stable platform for the car's bodywork.
- Bodywork: The body panels were typically crafted from lightweight aluminum, contributing to the car's performance and agility.
- Interior: The interior of the Bugatti Type 57 Atalante Coupe featured luxurious materials such as fine leather upholstery, wood trim, and chrome accents, reflecting the car's status as a luxury grand tourer.
Performance
- Engine: Powered by Bugatti's advanced inline-eight engine, the Type 57 featured a 3.3-liter (3257 cc) DOHC engine, known for its smoothness and refinement.
- Power Output: The engine produced approximately 135 to 160 horsepower, depending on the specific variant and tuning, providing strong performance for its era.
- Transmission: Equipped with a 4-speed manual gearbox, offering precise gear changes and optimal power delivery to the rear wheels.
- Driving Dynamics: The Type 57 Atalante Coupe was celebrated for its balanced handling and smooth ride quality, making it well-suited for long-distance touring and spirited driving.
- Suspension and Brakes: Featured advanced independent front suspension and a live rear axle with leaf springs, along with hydraulic drum brakes, typical for luxury cars of the time.
Historical Significance and Legacy
- Pre-War Elegance: Produced during the pre-war era, the Bugatti Type 57 Atalante Coupe represents the pinnacle of French automotive design and engineering excellence.
- Limited Production: Like many Bugatti models, the Type 57 Atalante was produced in limited numbers, adding to its exclusivity and desirability among collectors.
- Coachbuilding Excellence: The collaboration between Bugatti and Gangloff ensured that each Atalante Coupe was a bespoke creation tailored to the preferences of its discerning clientele.
Notable Features
- Distinctive Design: The Atalante Coupe featured a streamlined body with flowing lines, distinctive fender lines, and a signature Bugatti grille, making it instantly recognizable.
- Craftsmanship: Gangloff's expertise in coachbuilding was evident in the Atalante's meticulous detailing, luxurious interior, and aerodynamic profile.
- Luxury Amenities: The interior boasted amenities such as adjustable seats, a well-appointed dashboard, and advanced instrumentation for its time, ensuring comfort and convenience for its occupants.
You may purchase a print of the 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante Coupe in our dElegance 2019 online gallery.
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