This 1937 Bugatti 57SC Coupe has quite a history after being sold by Bugatti of Paris on April 9, 1937, according to invoices. The car came to the United States around 1959-1960 and it was sold to George Hughley. His caretaker-mechanic put a tablespoon full of upper cylinder lubricant in each cylinder. This caused a hydraulic lock that damaged the block. The importer Gene Cesari, bought a new block directly from Molsheim for about $125. George Hughley removed the original engine and sold the car without the engine to Donald Versley. Versley found the standard T57 engine and used it in the chassis. The engine was converted to SC configuration, including a dry sump lubricator and compressor.
The car passed through a couple more owners before ending up as a part of the Blackhawk Collection. The current owner acquired the car and commissioned Bob Mosier of Mosier Restorations, Inc, to completely restore the car in late 2006. This car has won awards since the restoration.
Overview
- Production Year: 1937
- Manufacturer: Bugatti
- Model: Type 57SC Coupe
- Body Style: Coupe
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The 1937 Bugatti 57SC Coupe is powered by a supercharged 3.3-liter inline-8 engine.
- The engine produces around 200 horsepower, an impressive figure for the time.
- The supercharger boosts the engine's power output, enhancing performance.
- Transmission:
- The car is equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission.
- The gearbox is designed to provide smooth and precise shifting, optimizing both performance and driving pleasure.
- Chassis:
- The chassis is made from lightweight steel, providing a balance of strength and agility.
- The wheelbase measures around 130 inches (3,302 mm), contributing to stability and handling.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension features a solid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- The rear suspension consists of a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- This setup provides a combination of ride comfort and handling precision.
- Brakes:
- The Bugatti 57SC Coupe is equipped with hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels.
- These brakes offer reliable stopping power, essential for high-speed driving.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Bugatti 57SC Coupe can achieve a top speed of around 120 mph (193 km/h), making it one of the fastest cars of its era.
- Acceleration: The supercharged engine provides strong acceleration, enabling the car to reach high speeds quickly.
- Handling: The lightweight chassis and well-tuned suspension offer excellent handling and maneuverability, making the car a joy to drive on winding roads.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The body of the 57SC Coupe is designed by Jean Bugatti, the son of company founder Ettore Bugatti.
- The car features a sleek, aerodynamic design with flowing lines and elegant curves.
- The body is typically made from lightweight aluminum, contributing to the car's performance.
- Interior:
- The interior of the 57SC Coupe is luxurious, featuring high-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship.
- The seats are upholstered in fine leather, providing comfort and support.
- The dashboard includes a range of gauges and controls, arranged in an elegant and functional layout.
- Styling:
- The styling of the Bugatti 57SC Coupe is characterized by its timeless elegance and attention to detail.
- Signature design elements include the distinctive horseshoe-shaped grille, the long hood, and the sweeping fenders.
- The overall design exudes sophistication and exclusivity, making it a true automotive masterpiece.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The 1937 Bugatti 57SC Coupe represents a pinnacle of automotive design and engineering in the pre-war era.
- It showcases the innovative spirit and artistic vision of the Bugatti brand.
- Racing Success:
- The Type 57SC had a successful racing career, including a notable victory at the 1937 24 Hours of Le Mans.
- Its performance on the track further solidified Bugatti's reputation for producing high-performance automobiles.
- Collector's Interest:
- Due to its rarity, historical significance, and stunning design, the Bugatti 57SC Coupe is highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts.
- Well-preserved or meticulously restored examples are considered extremely valuable, often commanding high prices at auctions.
- The car's unique blend of beauty, performance, and exclusivity adds to its desirability among collectors.
Notable Models and Variants
- Bugatti 57SC Atlantic:
- The Atlantic is one of the most famous variants of the Type 57SC, known for its distinctive riveted bodywork and teardrop shape.
- Only four Atlantics were ever built, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after cars in the world.
- Bugatti 57SC Atalante:
- The Atalante is another variant of the Type 57SC, featuring a stunning coupe body with elegant lines and a luxurious interior.
- It is equally prized by collectors for its beauty and performance.
Purchase a Print of the 1937 Bugatti 57SC Coupe Online here.