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When it comes to legendary cars, few names carry as much weight as the Bugatti Type 57. Known for its breathtaking design and ahead-of-its-time engineering, this classic car is more than just a machine it’s rolling art. Now, as the world takes a fresh look at vintage motoring, the Bugatti Type 57 is getting the recognition and revival it truly deserves.
Here’s everything you need to know about this iconic car, its rare legacy, performance details, current market value, and why collectors continue to chase it today.
What Is the Bugatti Type 57 and Why It Matters
Originally launched in 1934, the Bugatti Type 57 was the brainchild of Jean Bugatti, son of company founder Ettore Bugatti. It was designed not only to be beautiful but also to perform at a level few luxury cars could match at the time.
The Type 57 wasn’t just one model it became a whole family of variations, including the legendary Type 57C, 57S, and the ultra-rare 57SC Atlantic. With sleek curves, handcrafted bodies, and precision engineering, these cars captured the essence of pre-war automotive luxury and speed.
Why does it still matter today? Because the Type 57 represents the golden age of automotive craftsmanship a time when cars weren’t just built; they were sculpted.
How the Bugatti Type 57 Was Engineered to Impress
Under the hood, the Type 57 featured a 3.3-liter straight-eight engine, producing around 135 to 200 horsepower depending on the model. That may sound tame today, but for the 1930s, it was seriously quick.
Top speeds ranged from 95 to over 120 mph, making it one of the fastest luxury cars of its era. The 57SC Atlantic, in particular, was a technical marvel, with a supercharged engine, a lightweight chassis, and an ultra-low stance that gave it futuristic handling and presence.
Many of these cars also used lightweight materials like magnesium in their panels and had custom suspensions for racing and touring proving that Bugatti was thinking well ahead of its time.
Why the Bugatti Type 57 Is Every Collector’s Dream
There’s rarity, and then there’s Bugatti Type 57 rarity. Only around 710 Type 57s were ever made between 1934 and 1940. And out of those, only a handful were the iconic 57SC Atlantic versions some say just four.
One of those Atlantics, owned by fashion designer Ralph Lauren, is considered the most beautiful car in the world. Another sold for an estimated $30 to $40 million, making it one of the most expensive cars ever sold.
For collectors, owning a Type 57 isn’t just about the badge it’s about preserving a piece of automotive art that can never be recreated. Every one of these cars has a story, a unique body design (thanks to coachbuilders like Gangloff, Vanvooren, and Figoni et Falaschi), and historical significance that transcends numbers.
Best Known Variants of the Bugatti Type 57 – Brief Overview
Here’s a breakdown of the most well-known Type 57 versions and what made each special:
| Model | Key Features | Engine | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type 57 | Original base model | 3.3L I8 | Introduced in 1934 with a focus on luxury touring |
| Type 57C | Supercharged version | 3.3L I8 + Roots supercharger | Added performance and speed in the late 1930s |
| Type 57S | “Surbaissé” (lowered chassis) | 3.3L I8 | Built for sportier handling and sleeker looks |
| Type 57SC | Supercharged + lowered | 3.3L I8 + supercharger | One of the rarest and most valuable cars ever built |
| Type 57G “Tank” | Racing prototype | 3.3L I8 | Won the 1937 24 Hours of Le Mans for Bugatti |
Each of these variants had its own distinct look and purpose. Some were meant for luxury, others for racing, and a few became immortal icons.
When the Bugatti Type 57 Made History (And Keeps Making It)
One of the biggest milestones for the Type 57 came in 1937 when the Type 57G “Tank” won the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This was a major moment for Bugatti and proved that their cars could perform at the highest level, even in endurance racing.
More recently, Bugatti has teased modern tributes to the 57’s legacy. The La Voiture Noire concept, revealed in 2019, was a $18 million one-off hypercar inspired by the missing 57SC Atlantic once owned by Jean Bugatti himself.
The Type 57 continues to show up at Concours d’Elegance events, Pebble Beach auctions, and elite private collections. In terms of cultural and collector value, it just keeps rising.
What Does a Bugatti Type 57 Cost Today?
The price of a Bugatti Type 57 today varies wildly depending on condition, variant, originality, and provenance. A standard restored Type 57 might sell for $1.5 to $3 million, while a Type 57C can go for $4 to $6 million.
But when you’re talking about the ultra-rare 57SC Atlantic, the numbers become mind-blowing. One reportedly sold privately for over $40 million, making it one of the most valuable vehicles ever sold.
Here’s a quick pricing snapshot:
| Type 57 Variant | Estimated Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Standard Type 57 | $1.5M – $3M |
| Type 57C | $3.5M – $6M |
| Type 57S | $5M – $10M |
| Type 57SC Atlantic | $30M – $40M+ |
For most of us, these are dream garage cars but for serious collectors, they’re timeless investments.
Conclusion: Why the Bugatti Type 57 Is a Legend That Lives On
The Bugatti Type 57 isn’t just an old car it’s a piece of automotive history that still captures hearts and headlines nearly 90 years after it was built. From its elegant curves to its forward-thinking engineering, every element of the Type 57 was made with purpose and passion.
Whether you’re a car lover, a collector, or just someone who appreciates beautiful design, the Type 57 is a reminder that cars can be more than machines they can be masterpieces. Its legacy continues not just in garages, but in the DNA of every Bugatti built since.
FAQ: Bugatti Type 57
When was the Bugatti Type 57 originally produced?
The Type 57 was produced from 1934 to 1940, with about 710 units built in total.
What makes the Type 57SC Atlantic so rare and valuable?
Only a few were ever built, each uniquely hand-crafted. Its design, rarity, and historical significance make it one of the most valuable cars in the world.
How fast is the Bugatti Type 57?
Depending on the model, top speeds ranged from 95 to 120+ mph, which was very fast for the 1930s.
Can you still buy a Bugatti Type 57 today?
Yes, but it’s extremely rare. Most are sold through high-end classic car auctions or private collectors, and prices can exceed $30 million.
Why is the Bugatti Type 57 considered a masterpiece?
It blends timeless design, engineering excellence, racing history, and unmatched rarity making it one of the most celebrated classic cars ever built.