French Cars
1924 The Thoroughbred Car of Ettore Bugatti
2013 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
After the first world war, Bugatti wants to dominate car racing. Year after year, they develop new models. In 1924, with the Bugatti 35, they are ready.
The company maintained a Bugatti racing team but its marketing vision was broader. The Bugatti 35 will be the biggest commercial success of all time in the category of racing cars. The 640 units produced between 1924 and 1931enabled individuals to try their luck on the circuits.
The first official release of the Bugatti 35 takes place in Lyons on August 3, 1924, for the Grand Prix de l'Automobile Club de France. Five cars are entered. They do not win because of technical problems, but they are already appealing.The ads published by Bugatti compare this model to a Pur-Sang (thoroughbred horse).
The first group included a sixth car, considered as the prototype of the series and initially assigned to the personal use of Ettore Bugatti.
This prototype crashed in 1934 and is now equipped with a freshly rebuilt engine. This car is estimated $ 1.5 million, to be sold on August 16 by Bonhams in Carmel (Quail Lodge). Here is the link to the catalog.
After the first world war, Bugatti wants to dominate car racing. Year after year, they develop new models. In 1924, with the Bugatti 35, they are ready.
The company maintained a Bugatti racing team but its marketing vision was broader. The Bugatti 35 will be the biggest commercial success of all time in the category of racing cars. The 640 units produced between 1924 and 1931enabled individuals to try their luck on the circuits.
The first official release of the Bugatti 35 takes place in Lyons on August 3, 1924, for the Grand Prix de l'Automobile Club de France. Five cars are entered. They do not win because of technical problems, but they are already appealing.The ads published by Bugatti compare this model to a Pur-Sang (thoroughbred horse).
The first group included a sixth car, considered as the prototype of the series and initially assigned to the personal use of Ettore Bugatti.
This prototype crashed in 1934 and is now equipped with a freshly rebuilt engine. This car is estimated $ 1.5 million, to be sold on August 16 by Bonhams in Carmel (Quail Lodge). Here is the link to the catalog.
1925 Bugatti for a Ziegfeld Girl
2017 SOLD for $ 3.3M including premium
The Bugatti 35 Grand Prix made a hit at its very first appearance in Lyon in 1924 when the first five cars of this type dominated the Grand Prix of the Automobile Club de France.
From a technological point of view the 35 offers a very light chassis and a streamlined body that is also simple and elegant. Its decisive advance compared to its competitors in endurance racing is the brake system specially designed to resist wear. In the opposite the weakness of the tires impairs the competition record.
The Bugatti Type 35 is a great commercial success. By supplying its wealthy customers with cars of the same performance as the factory engaged cars, Bugatti is a pioneer of the sports car. The 35 is a two-seater car in accordance with the regulations applicable to the Grand Prix of that period.
During the first year the brand produced only 16 Bugatti Type 35. In 1925 production accelerated.
A Bugatti 35 of the initial variant, sometimes identified as Bugatti 35 Lyon, was bought in 1925 in Paris by a wealthy American during his honeymoon with a former dancer from the Ziegfeld Follies. The car was used in competition by him with parsimony.
After more than 90 years, this Bugatti still has only three owners from new. Its originality and its condition are sensational for a car of that time. It is estimated $ 2.6M for sale by Gooding in Scottsdale on January 20, lot 022. Here is the link to the press release.
From a technological point of view the 35 offers a very light chassis and a streamlined body that is also simple and elegant. Its decisive advance compared to its competitors in endurance racing is the brake system specially designed to resist wear. In the opposite the weakness of the tires impairs the competition record.
The Bugatti Type 35 is a great commercial success. By supplying its wealthy customers with cars of the same performance as the factory engaged cars, Bugatti is a pioneer of the sports car. The 35 is a two-seater car in accordance with the regulations applicable to the Grand Prix of that period.
During the first year the brand produced only 16 Bugatti Type 35. In 1925 production accelerated.
A Bugatti 35 of the initial variant, sometimes identified as Bugatti 35 Lyon, was bought in 1925 in Paris by a wealthy American during his honeymoon with a former dancer from the Ziegfeld Follies. The car was used in competition by him with parsimony.
After more than 90 years, this Bugatti still has only three owners from new. Its originality and its condition are sensational for a car of that time. It is estimated $ 2.6M for sale by Gooding in Scottsdale on January 20, lot 022. Here is the link to the press release.
Excitement can be felt in the room as the exceptional, early-production 1925 #Bugatti #Type35 #GrandPrix takes the stage! #GCoAZ @Bugatti pic.twitter.com/XTo7FYsiTL
— Gooding & Company (@goodingandco) January 20, 2017
1925 Imitation by Bugatti
2019 unsold
In 1924 Bugatti demonstrates that his cars are like thoroughbreds. The Type 35, new flagship of the brand, will dominate the competitions until 1931. Equipped in its first variant of a 2-liter engine with 8 cylinders in line, it follows the very promising Type 30. According to the regulations of the time requiring the driver to be assisted by a navigator, it is a two-seater.
In 1925 the production of the 35 is divided into two variants, the Type 35 Grand Prix and the Course Imitation 35A. The 35A is less powerful but also more robust and much cheaper than its racing counterpart. Impossible to differentiate visually from a 35 Grand Prix, the 35A seduces the lovers of high-speed tourism.
On January 16 in Scottsdale, Worldwide Auctioneers sells as lot 55 a Bugatti that has kept a level of correctness rare for a vehicle of that time. It was built in September 1925 as a 35A with several improvements. Its engine was rebuilt during a restoration according to the 2.25 liters standard matching the variant 35T of 1928-1930.
At the time of the 1926 Grand Prix de Provence, this car belonged to an industrialist based in Marseille who was encouraging Louis Chiron, hitherto specialized in hill climbing. It was probably driven by the young Monegasque champion in this Grand Prix which was his first circuit racing experience.
Continually maintained in working order, it transported in 2016-2017 its owner and his wife on a European tour, traveling nearly 7000 km in 16 months and once again testifying to the long time robustness of the cars built by Bugatti. It is estimated $ 1.9M.
Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
In 1925 the production of the 35 is divided into two variants, the Type 35 Grand Prix and the Course Imitation 35A. The 35A is less powerful but also more robust and much cheaper than its racing counterpart. Impossible to differentiate visually from a 35 Grand Prix, the 35A seduces the lovers of high-speed tourism.
On January 16 in Scottsdale, Worldwide Auctioneers sells as lot 55 a Bugatti that has kept a level of correctness rare for a vehicle of that time. It was built in September 1925 as a 35A with several improvements. Its engine was rebuilt during a restoration according to the 2.25 liters standard matching the variant 35T of 1928-1930.
At the time of the 1926 Grand Prix de Provence, this car belonged to an industrialist based in Marseille who was encouraging Louis Chiron, hitherto specialized in hill climbing. It was probably driven by the young Monegasque champion in this Grand Prix which was his first circuit racing experience.
Continually maintained in working order, it transported in 2016-2017 its owner and his wife on a European tour, traveling nearly 7000 km in 16 months and once again testifying to the long time robustness of the cars built by Bugatti. It is estimated $ 1.9M.
Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
Bugatti Type 35A raced by Chiron on Worldwide docket: https://t.co/Tm8Gm67Wpp pic.twitter.com/bJ8A68E722
— ClassicCars.com (@ClassicCars_com) December 12, 2018
1926 Racing Cars of the Twenties
2010 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
These cars that were competing for top places of the Grand Prix in the 1920s all look a little bit similar. We recognize the very long and low hood, the much external pairs of wheels, and the narrow open cabin where the reckless driver had no more space than an astronaut in a Mercury capsule.
Before fans were involved in their repair, many of them have poorly aged. Conversely, we understand the very good result obtained on December 13 by Osenat at Fontainebleau on a 1928 Bugatti 37A: 910 K € hammer price, 1.035 M € including premium. All its mechanical elements were from the origin.
A Talbot-Darracq from 1926 which comes to Paris at Bonhams on January 23 was not so lucky and merely supports a low estimate of 400 K €. Found in poor condition in 1988, it was complete but had to undergo many changes to become presentable. It was rebuilt from the original model, except the stiffer chassis that meets a design of 1931. At that time, the Anglo-French brand had decided not to roll again these cars, which had found their third owner in the person of Enrico Platé.
The photo of this car had been shared before sale by AuctionPublicity.
These cars that were competing for top places of the Grand Prix in the 1920s all look a little bit similar. We recognize the very long and low hood, the much external pairs of wheels, and the narrow open cabin where the reckless driver had no more space than an astronaut in a Mercury capsule.
Before fans were involved in their repair, many of them have poorly aged. Conversely, we understand the very good result obtained on December 13 by Osenat at Fontainebleau on a 1928 Bugatti 37A: 910 K € hammer price, 1.035 M € including premium. All its mechanical elements were from the origin.
A Talbot-Darracq from 1926 which comes to Paris at Bonhams on January 23 was not so lucky and merely supports a low estimate of 400 K €. Found in poor condition in 1988, it was complete but had to undergo many changes to become presentable. It was rebuilt from the original model, except the stiffer chassis that meets a design of 1931. At that time, the Anglo-French brand had decided not to roll again these cars, which had found their third owner in the person of Enrico Platé.
The photo of this car had been shared before sale by AuctionPublicity.
1928 The First Bugatti of Dr. Williamson
2010 SOLD 900 K$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
For ten years, from 1924 to 1933, the Bugatti Type 35 exercised an absolute domination within the car racing circuits.Long, low and slender, they differ from their competitors by wearing the colors of their country, a beautiful French blue.
The highest prices apply to good condition copies that have not been modified. On December 13, 2009 at Fontainebleau, Osenat recorded 910 K € hammer price, 1,035 M € including premium on a Bugatti 37A of 1928. All its mechanical elements were maintained from the origin.
On March 12 in Amelia Island, Florida, Gooding sells a Bugatti 35C of the same year. Its pedigree is excellent. It was the first car to enter the remarkable specialized Bugatti car collection of Dr. Williamson, which was auctioned by the same company in August 2008. The highlight of this collection, a spectacular Atalante coupe, had reached $ 7.9 million including premium.
The 35C is estimated $ 1 million. This is the second photo from the top of the page in the press release shared by Sports Car Digest.
POST SALE COMMENT
The Bugatti was sold 900 K $ including premium. Despite a prestigious provenance its price remained well below the price of the remarkable car of Fontainebleau.
For ten years, from 1924 to 1933, the Bugatti Type 35 exercised an absolute domination within the car racing circuits.Long, low and slender, they differ from their competitors by wearing the colors of their country, a beautiful French blue.
The highest prices apply to good condition copies that have not been modified. On December 13, 2009 at Fontainebleau, Osenat recorded 910 K € hammer price, 1,035 M € including premium on a Bugatti 37A of 1928. All its mechanical elements were maintained from the origin.
On March 12 in Amelia Island, Florida, Gooding sells a Bugatti 35C of the same year. Its pedigree is excellent. It was the first car to enter the remarkable specialized Bugatti car collection of Dr. Williamson, which was auctioned by the same company in August 2008. The highlight of this collection, a spectacular Atalante coupe, had reached $ 7.9 million including premium.
The 35C is estimated $ 1 million. This is the second photo from the top of the page in the press release shared by Sports Car Digest.
POST SALE COMMENT
The Bugatti was sold 900 K $ including premium. Despite a prestigious provenance its price remained well below the price of the remarkable car of Fontainebleau.
1931 Early Expectations for the Bugatti Type 51
2016 SOLD for $ 4M including premium
Introduced in 1924, the Bugatti Type 35 had been the king of the circuits. By cumulating works cars and private teams, it recorded no less than 2,000 wins within a few years.
At all times, an automobile supremacy is necessarily short lived. The technical progress of Alfa Romeo and Mercedes-Benz is forcing Bugatti to look for new solutions. It is too late. Despite some early successes, the new models Types 51, 53 and 54 introduced in 1931 and 1932 will not match the ambitions of the French brand.
On the other side of the Atlantic, the Miller 91 achieves great results in competition with its small supercharged engine reduced in volume to adapt to new rules, even at that time ! Bugatti indirectly obtains the Miller 91 patterns and creates its own Type 51 by plagiarizing the camshaft from its American competitor. The external features of the new car are almost unchanged from Type 35.
One of the first Bugatti Type 51 was sold in 1931 to Lord Howe, an outstanding personality of British motor racing who won in the same year the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a driving partnership with Henry Birkin on an Alfa Romeo 8C-2300.
Lord Howe intensely used his Bugatti Type 51, entering it four times at the Monaco Grand Prix. Tazio Nuvolari was once seen driving this car in the same time range, but only for practices. Lord Howe sold it in 1935. The later story is less glorious : the Bugatti overturned to kill its second owner in 1937.
Despite its rebuilding performed around its original chassis after the accident, Lord Howe's Bugatti remains one of the most desirable Type 51 in existence. It is for sale on August 19 by Bonhams at Quail Lodge, Carmel CA, lot 36.
Please watch the video shared by Bonhams.
At all times, an automobile supremacy is necessarily short lived. The technical progress of Alfa Romeo and Mercedes-Benz is forcing Bugatti to look for new solutions. It is too late. Despite some early successes, the new models Types 51, 53 and 54 introduced in 1931 and 1932 will not match the ambitions of the French brand.
On the other side of the Atlantic, the Miller 91 achieves great results in competition with its small supercharged engine reduced in volume to adapt to new rules, even at that time ! Bugatti indirectly obtains the Miller 91 patterns and creates its own Type 51 by plagiarizing the camshaft from its American competitor. The external features of the new car are almost unchanged from Type 35.
One of the first Bugatti Type 51 was sold in 1931 to Lord Howe, an outstanding personality of British motor racing who won in the same year the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a driving partnership with Henry Birkin on an Alfa Romeo 8C-2300.
Lord Howe intensely used his Bugatti Type 51, entering it four times at the Monaco Grand Prix. Tazio Nuvolari was once seen driving this car in the same time range, but only for practices. Lord Howe sold it in 1935. The later story is less glorious : the Bugatti overturned to kill its second owner in 1937.
Despite its rebuilding performed around its original chassis after the accident, Lord Howe's Bugatti remains one of the most desirable Type 51 in existence. It is for sale on August 19 by Bonhams at Quail Lodge, Carmel CA, lot 36.
Please watch the video shared by Bonhams.
1931 Grand Prix with Wimille
2018 SOLD for $ 3.74M including premium
After a full decade of domination in competitions, the Bugatti 35 became obsolete in 1931. To stay in the running against the growing ambitions of Alfa Romeo, Mercedes-Benz and Bentley, Bugatti created a new model, the Type 51 Grand Prix.
The 51 retains the 2.3 liter volume of the 35 B while increasing its power with an engine layout copied from Miller. Intended for competition, this model is divided between the factory team and private owners.
One of them began its race history in July 1931 as a factory car at the Belgian Grand Prix. At the end of that year, it was sold to the young driver Jean-Pierre Wimille for 80,000 francs, a large sum for the time. In 1932 Wimille ran it in two Grand Prix in North Africa, winning the Algerian Grand Prix in Oran.
Before Wimille sells it a few months later, Bugatti reinstalls its equipment on a new frame without changing the chassis number. I guess this was a simple service after its short African career : satisfied with its condition, Bugatti has assembled another body on the original chassis.
The 51 ex Wimille is used intensively in Grand Prix in 1933 and 1934 before becoming the only Type 51 to enter American competitions, without much success.
Like most racing cars of its time, this Bugatti had several crashes and incidents as well as equipment substitutions. This second chassis is currently equipped with its original body, its original engine returned to operation and reinstalled around 1986 and its original gearbox retrieved in 1989 by its owner of that time in an auction of spare equipment.
It is estimated $ 3.2M for sale by Gooding at Pebble Beach on August 24, lot 48. I had discussed it in this column before it passed at RM Auctions on August 14, 2010. Meanwhile the Bugatti Type 51 ex Lord Howe was sold for $ 4M including premium by Bonhams on August 19, 2016.
The 51 retains the 2.3 liter volume of the 35 B while increasing its power with an engine layout copied from Miller. Intended for competition, this model is divided between the factory team and private owners.
One of them began its race history in July 1931 as a factory car at the Belgian Grand Prix. At the end of that year, it was sold to the young driver Jean-Pierre Wimille for 80,000 francs, a large sum for the time. In 1932 Wimille ran it in two Grand Prix in North Africa, winning the Algerian Grand Prix in Oran.
Before Wimille sells it a few months later, Bugatti reinstalls its equipment on a new frame without changing the chassis number. I guess this was a simple service after its short African career : satisfied with its condition, Bugatti has assembled another body on the original chassis.
The 51 ex Wimille is used intensively in Grand Prix in 1933 and 1934 before becoming the only Type 51 to enter American competitions, without much success.
Like most racing cars of its time, this Bugatti had several crashes and incidents as well as equipment substitutions. This second chassis is currently equipped with its original body, its original engine returned to operation and reinstalled around 1986 and its original gearbox retrieved in 1989 by its owner of that time in an auction of spare equipment.
It is estimated $ 3.2M for sale by Gooding at Pebble Beach on August 24, lot 48. I had discussed it in this column before it passed at RM Auctions on August 14, 2010. Meanwhile the Bugatti Type 51 ex Lord Howe was sold for $ 4M including premium by Bonhams on August 19, 2016.
1931 From Lehoux to Pétoulet
2019 unsold
Bugatti encouraged its customers to enter competitions, including against the official factory team. When the Type 51 is created in 1931, it immediately invades the circuits in quite large numbers.
Private pilots seek to optimize their cars, with the help of competent mechanics but without the possibility of development support. They often have several Bugatti between which they exchange equipment. It is indeed tempting : the only important innovation of Type 51 is the double camshaft. The 51 is designed for three possible engines, from 1.5 to 2.3 liters, easy to interchange for various racing regulations.
Under these conditions, the identification of a car is based retroactively around its chassis. On February 8 in Paris, Artcurial sells one of the earliest Type 51, lot 38 estimated € 4M. From 1931 to 1947 it was driven by several private champions : Marcel Lehoux, Louis Trintignant, Jules Rolland, Maurice Trintignant. Despite an abundant history of competition, its traceability has been restored.
Its bodywork is photo-matching the 35C with which Louis Trintignant died in Péronne in 1933. During that race the 35C was temporarily equipped with the engine of the 51. The cam box comes from another 51 owned by Lehoux. The original engine had a displacement of 2300 cc. It was probably exchanged in 1946 or 1947 with a 1500 cc engine that fitted a 51A. The tank was changed after 1974 : the highly distorted original equipment prevented its new owner from entering the cockpit.
The 51 that comes on sale had many successes among the circa 40 grand prix in which it participated. It is significantly in 1938 the very first car raced by the superchampion Maurice Trintignant, a brother of Louis.
During the war, the car is hidden in hay. In all logic Maurice Trintignant enters it in September 1945 in the Prix des Prisonniers at the Bois de Boulogne. Maurice must give up : the rat droppings (pétoules) had blocked the pipes of his car. Wimille gives him the nickname Pétoulet which will remain him.
Private pilots seek to optimize their cars, with the help of competent mechanics but without the possibility of development support. They often have several Bugatti between which they exchange equipment. It is indeed tempting : the only important innovation of Type 51 is the double camshaft. The 51 is designed for three possible engines, from 1.5 to 2.3 liters, easy to interchange for various racing regulations.
Under these conditions, the identification of a car is based retroactively around its chassis. On February 8 in Paris, Artcurial sells one of the earliest Type 51, lot 38 estimated € 4M. From 1931 to 1947 it was driven by several private champions : Marcel Lehoux, Louis Trintignant, Jules Rolland, Maurice Trintignant. Despite an abundant history of competition, its traceability has been restored.
Its bodywork is photo-matching the 35C with which Louis Trintignant died in Péronne in 1933. During that race the 35C was temporarily equipped with the engine of the 51. The cam box comes from another 51 owned by Lehoux. The original engine had a displacement of 2300 cc. It was probably exchanged in 1946 or 1947 with a 1500 cc engine that fitted a 51A. The tank was changed after 1974 : the highly distorted original equipment prevented its new owner from entering the cockpit.
The 51 that comes on sale had many successes among the circa 40 grand prix in which it participated. It is significantly in 1938 the very first car raced by the superchampion Maurice Trintignant, a brother of Louis.
During the war, the car is hidden in hay. In all logic Maurice Trintignant enters it in September 1945 in the Prix des Prisonniers at the Bois de Boulogne. Maurice must give up : the rat droppings (pétoules) had blocked the pipes of his car. Wimille gives him the nickname Pétoulet which will remain him.
1931 A Bugatti for Monza
2013 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
By their outside look, the Bugatti racing cars of 1931 have not much changed in design since their beginning nearly twenty years earlier. They still are long cylinders mounted on protruding wheels.
However, their performance is now spectacular. With its 4.9 liter supercharged straight eight-cylinder engine, Type 54 is the most powerful competition model of Bugatti, capable of reaching 230 km / h and of competing with Maseratiand Alfa Romeo.
At first, two prototypes were built. They immediately won the first two places in Monza.
The first prototype, which was also the Monza winner, was then sold to a young aristocrat who was killed after of adriving blunder when racing it in May 1932. Despite the accident, the Bugatti has retained its original engine. It is estimated € 2.5 million, for sale by Bonhams in Paris on February 7.
The Type 54 is extremely rare. Like Ferrari 20 years later, Bugatti did not hesitate to create very small series to targetspecific competitions. Three of the nine cars that were built, including the second prototype, were dismantled. The prototype for sale is unique because the position of the engine was lowered for the production version.
I invite you to play the video shared by Bonhams, which includes a rather acrobatic driving demonstration last September in Goodwood.
By their outside look, the Bugatti racing cars of 1931 have not much changed in design since their beginning nearly twenty years earlier. They still are long cylinders mounted on protruding wheels.
However, their performance is now spectacular. With its 4.9 liter supercharged straight eight-cylinder engine, Type 54 is the most powerful competition model of Bugatti, capable of reaching 230 km / h and of competing with Maseratiand Alfa Romeo.
At first, two prototypes were built. They immediately won the first two places in Monza.
The first prototype, which was also the Monza winner, was then sold to a young aristocrat who was killed after of adriving blunder when racing it in May 1932. Despite the accident, the Bugatti has retained its original engine. It is estimated € 2.5 million, for sale by Bonhams in Paris on February 7.
The Type 54 is extremely rare. Like Ferrari 20 years later, Bugatti did not hesitate to create very small series to targetspecific competitions. Three of the nine cars that were built, including the second prototype, were dismantled. The prototype for sale is unique because the position of the engine was lowered for the production version.
I invite you to play the video shared by Bonhams, which includes a rather acrobatic driving demonstration last September in Goodwood.
1933 Bugatti Type 55 Cabriolet
2022 SOLD for £ 2.9M by Gooding
A Bugatti Type 55 made in 1932 and coachworked as a one-off cabriolet deux places by Gangloff is estimated £ 3.75M for sale by Gooding on September 3, 2022, lot 23. It is illustrated in second position in the pre sale press release.
This SuperSport car is powered by a supercharged 2.3-liter twin-cam inline eight-cylinder engine. It certainly retains its original engine and body. The original price of that deluxe machine with a bespoke Rexine top had been 19,000 francs. In 1947 the 15 year old car was reputed to win an event at Montlhéry with 100 km in 54 minutes.
In 1957 its Californian owner purchased another Type 55 to use it as a parts car for his Gangloff cabriolet. That four seat cabriolet made in Liège by Pritchard et Demollin was reconstructed in the 1970s as a roadster in the style of Jean Bugatti with a striking yellow and black livery.
In 2008 during a restoration it was observed that the chassis frame, the gearbox, the crankcase and the engine were original. The engine was removed because it was too worn to be kept. Accompanied by its original engine, the reconstructed roadster passed at RM Sotheby's on August 19, 2022, lot 241.
This SuperSport car is powered by a supercharged 2.3-liter twin-cam inline eight-cylinder engine. It certainly retains its original engine and body. The original price of that deluxe machine with a bespoke Rexine top had been 19,000 francs. In 1947 the 15 year old car was reputed to win an event at Montlhéry with 100 km in 54 minutes.
In 1957 its Californian owner purchased another Type 55 to use it as a parts car for his Gangloff cabriolet. That four seat cabriolet made in Liège by Pritchard et Demollin was reconstructed in the 1970s as a roadster in the style of Jean Bugatti with a striking yellow and black livery.
In 2008 during a restoration it was observed that the chassis frame, the gearbox, the crankcase and the engine were original. The engine was removed because it was too worn to be kept. Accompanied by its original engine, the reconstructed roadster passed at RM Sotheby's on August 19, 2022, lot 241.
1933 Type 55 Roadster
2023 unsold by Gooding
14 Bugatti Type 55 were assembled with a Super Sport roadster factory bodywork designed by Jean Bugatti. One of them was completed in 1933 and sold new to its first customer after the 1933 Foire d'Alger. Its racing history is limited to a hill climb in Algeria in 1935, which it won.
This car spent the second world war in Algeria and entered in 1986 the world class collection of Ralph Lauren. Lauren parted from it in 2003 when he acquired his Alfa Romeo 2.9 Mille Miglia Spider. The 55 was exhibited on Bugatti’s stand at the 2007 Geneva International Motor Show alongside the Veyron 16.4.
One of seven Type 55 that retain most of their original Jean Bugatti open coachwork, it is estimated $ 8M for sale by Gooding in August 19, 2023, lot 139. It is illustrated in the pre sale press release of the auction house. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
This car retains its original chassis frame, engine, gearbox, rear end, and has been repainted in its original color scheme. The bonnet has been replaced.
This car spent the second world war in Algeria and entered in 1986 the world class collection of Ralph Lauren. Lauren parted from it in 2003 when he acquired his Alfa Romeo 2.9 Mille Miglia Spider. The 55 was exhibited on Bugatti’s stand at the 2007 Geneva International Motor Show alongside the Veyron 16.4.
One of seven Type 55 that retain most of their original Jean Bugatti open coachwork, it is estimated $ 8M for sale by Gooding in August 19, 2023, lot 139. It is illustrated in the pre sale press release of the auction house. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
This car retains its original chassis frame, engine, gearbox, rear end, and has been repainted in its original color scheme. The bonnet has been replaced.
1935 Delahaye 135M by Figoni
2022 SOLD for $ 1.3M before fees
1935 was a promising year for French luxury cars, with the new chassis models 135 by Delahaye and T-150 by the new joint venture Talbot-Lago. The Art Déco style associated with a quest for better aerodynamics invades the car business behind Bugatti's Aérolithe prototype.
Established in Paris, the Italian born coachbuilder Giuseppe Figoni was experienced in fitting custom bodies on Bugatti and Delage chassis. He does not miss these new opportunities.
A 1935 Delahaye 135M was the very last made by Figoni before his fellow Italian Ovidio Falaschi brought cash for the Goutte d'Eau project and the very first to feature Figoni's patented Drophead coupe with disappearing top. The car was exhibited at the 1935 Salon de l'Auto by their new company Figoni et Falaschi and won a first place in 1936 when it was entered by its first owner at a Concours d'Elégance in the Hippodrome de Paris.
The identification of that pioneering 'Dela' was discovered and thoroughly researched in the last two decades by its owner Sally Perkins with the support of the best Delahaye specialists in France. Keeping its original engine and fitted on a period correct competition chassis, it will be sold by Worldwide Auctioneers in Scottsdale on January 26, 2022, lot 40. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
Only four Delahaye had been coachworked by Figoni in 1935. The car for sale is the only known survivor. It has been restored in its original stunning colors.
Established in Paris, the Italian born coachbuilder Giuseppe Figoni was experienced in fitting custom bodies on Bugatti and Delage chassis. He does not miss these new opportunities.
A 1935 Delahaye 135M was the very last made by Figoni before his fellow Italian Ovidio Falaschi brought cash for the Goutte d'Eau project and the very first to feature Figoni's patented Drophead coupe with disappearing top. The car was exhibited at the 1935 Salon de l'Auto by their new company Figoni et Falaschi and won a first place in 1936 when it was entered by its first owner at a Concours d'Elégance in the Hippodrome de Paris.
The identification of that pioneering 'Dela' was discovered and thoroughly researched in the last two decades by its owner Sally Perkins with the support of the best Delahaye specialists in France. Keeping its original engine and fitted on a period correct competition chassis, it will be sold by Worldwide Auctioneers in Scottsdale on January 26, 2022, lot 40. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
Only four Delahaye had been coachworked by Figoni in 1935. The car for sale is the only known survivor. It has been restored in its original stunning colors.
1935 Voisin, Heavier than Air
2010 SOLD 533 K€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
After World War I, Gabriel Voisin, aviation pioneer and illustrious aircraft manufacturer, changes his course: he starts an automobile production. During the two decades of this second career, he maintains, however, a strange confusion between car and aviation.
His company for cars is named Avions Voisin. In the early 1930s it was in financial trouble. To restart operations, Voisin again inspired from aviation: he equipped the C25 chassis with a body named Aerodyne, inspired by an airplane wing.
It is a surprising model, with a much rounded sliding top. Viewed from the rear it is a large cat about to pounce. This powerful monster of 1600 Kg, taking advantage of its aerodynamic shape, reaches 130 km / h. Seven copies of this series were built in 1935.
One of them is for sale at Artcurial on February 14 in Paris. This copy is in good original condition, both inside and outside. With such a quality of conservation that becomes the major criterion for collectors, this car may expect 500 K €.
POST SALE COMMENT
In accordance with its rarity and its condition, this spectacular car has been sold 533 K € including premium.
After World War I, Gabriel Voisin, aviation pioneer and illustrious aircraft manufacturer, changes his course: he starts an automobile production. During the two decades of this second career, he maintains, however, a strange confusion between car and aviation.
His company for cars is named Avions Voisin. In the early 1930s it was in financial trouble. To restart operations, Voisin again inspired from aviation: he equipped the C25 chassis with a body named Aerodyne, inspired by an airplane wing.
It is a surprising model, with a much rounded sliding top. Viewed from the rear it is a large cat about to pounce. This powerful monster of 1600 Kg, taking advantage of its aerodynamic shape, reaches 130 km / h. Seven copies of this series were built in 1935.
One of them is for sale at Artcurial on February 14 in Paris. This copy is in good original condition, both inside and outside. With such a quality of conservation that becomes the major criterion for collectors, this car may expect 500 K €.
POST SALE COMMENT
In accordance with its rarity and its condition, this spectacular car has been sold 533 K € including premium.
1936 Delahaye 135 Goutte d'Eau
2013 SOLD for $ 2.4M by RM Auctions
Made in 1936, a Delahaye 135 Compétition Court Goutte d'Eau was sold for $ 2.4M by RM Auctions on November 21, 2013, lot 117. It passed at Mecum on August 14, 2021, lot S95. Please watch the video shared by Mecum.
This car is one of three surviving from six short chassis Delahaye by Figoni. This high end example assembled for the use of the Delahaye brand has the integrated headlights in the front fenders. It is fitted with a period correct inline-6 engine which was possibly its original equipment. The sunroof has been closed but its mechanism is still present.
This car is one of three surviving from six short chassis Delahaye by Figoni. This high end example assembled for the use of the Delahaye brand has the integrated headlights in the front fenders. It is fitted with a period correct inline-6 engine which was possibly its original equipment. The sunroof has been closed but its mechanism is still present.
1936 Lago restarts Talbot
2013 SOLD 1.45 M€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The economic crisis has hit the car industry and shattered in 1935 the Franco-British consortium STD (Sunbeam-Talbot-Darracq). Yet there are still great opportunities for bold entrepreneurs. Controlling now the French share of the previous STD, Antonio (Anthony) Lago inaugurates one of the most beautiful pages in the history of the automobile.
The cars of prestige and competition are encouraged by National Socialism, and Mercedes and Auto Union become invincible. To oppose such a domination, France changes its regulations by requiring competition models to have also a counterpart for the road.
Talbot-Lago takes this opportunity by developing quickly the T150C chassis. For the road, the deluxe version is the Goutte d'eau berlinetta bodied by Figoni and Falaschi which is the only competitor for the Bugatti Atlantic.
In 1936 and 1937 Talbot-Lago is equiping six T150C chassis for endurance racing, including Le Mans. Their rankingwill be exceptional. To our delight, this model joins elegance to efficiency. One of the four cars made in 1936 is estimated € 1.2 million, for sale by Artcurial in Paris on February 8. This unit has often been driven by Levegh.
I invite you to play the video shared by Artcurial on YouTube.
The economic crisis has hit the car industry and shattered in 1935 the Franco-British consortium STD (Sunbeam-Talbot-Darracq). Yet there are still great opportunities for bold entrepreneurs. Controlling now the French share of the previous STD, Antonio (Anthony) Lago inaugurates one of the most beautiful pages in the history of the automobile.
The cars of prestige and competition are encouraged by National Socialism, and Mercedes and Auto Union become invincible. To oppose such a domination, France changes its regulations by requiring competition models to have also a counterpart for the road.
Talbot-Lago takes this opportunity by developing quickly the T150C chassis. For the road, the deluxe version is the Goutte d'eau berlinetta bodied by Figoni and Falaschi which is the only competitor for the Bugatti Atlantic.
In 1936 and 1937 Talbot-Lago is equiping six T150C chassis for endurance racing, including Le Mans. Their rankingwill be exceptional. To our delight, this model joins elegance to efficiency. One of the four cars made in 1936 is estimated € 1.2 million, for sale by Artcurial in Paris on February 8. This unit has often been driven by Levegh.
I invite you to play the video shared by Artcurial on YouTube.
1936 Bugatti 57 S Atalante
2022 unsold
A Type 57 S completed in August 1936 was both the first Bugatti fitted with a new 3.3 litre engine in an S specification influenced from the racing Type 59 and the first Atalante coupe to leave the factory, sold to a hurried customer.
In March 1937 it was entered in a rally for female participants then on loan to the wife of its earlier Marseille concessionaire. It was restored in 1972 by using a Bugatti Galibier saloon as a donor car, including a 58 C engine and the supercharger that upgraded it to SC.
This car is estimated CHF 10M for sale by RM Sotheby's on September 9, 2022, lot 122.
In March 1937 it was entered in a rally for female participants then on loan to the wife of its earlier Marseille concessionaire. It was restored in 1972 by using a Bugatti Galibier saloon as a donor car, including a 58 C engine and the supercharger that upgraded it to SC.
This car is estimated CHF 10M for sale by RM Sotheby's on September 9, 2022, lot 122.
1937 57 S / SC Tourer by Corsica
2023 SOLD for $ 5.4M by RM Sotheby's
A Bugatti 57 S was assembled in 1937 as a four seat open tourer by Corsica, a British coachbuilder. It was later upgraded to SC with the supercharger.
This car retains its original chassis, engine, gearbox, differential and body and had received a 6,000 man-hours restoration by RM. It is estimated $ 5.5M for sale by RM Sotheby's on August 19, 2023, lot 355.
A very early 57 S whose chassis had been transformed from the 57 G racing model, had been assembled by Corsica as a four seat sport Grand Routier in March 1937. Maintained unmodified during half a century by a keen owner, it was sold for £ 4.05M by Bonhams on February 19, 2021, lot 105.
This car retains its original chassis, engine, gearbox, differential and body and had received a 6,000 man-hours restoration by RM. It is estimated $ 5.5M for sale by RM Sotheby's on August 19, 2023, lot 355.
A very early 57 S whose chassis had been transformed from the 57 G racing model, had been assembled by Corsica as a four seat sport Grand Routier in March 1937. Maintained unmodified during half a century by a keen owner, it was sold for £ 4.05M by Bonhams on February 19, 2021, lot 105.
1937 The Secret of Dulcie
2021 SOLD for £ 4.05M including premium
In 1936, when Jean Bugatti takes over the management of the Molsheim plant, the top of the range is the Type 57 chassis. In the same year, Bugatti returns to success with the 57 G variant, fitted with the spectacular streamlined Tank body, which wins the French Grand Prix at Linas-Montlhéry. The new 57 S lowered variant, which combines speed and luxury, can be fitted with the factory's most prestigious bodies, Atalante and Atlantic.
In early 1937, a 57 S is sent to London to be fitted with a four-seater sports Grand Routier open body by Corsica. It is nicknamed Dulcie by its first owner in reference to its registration number DUL 351, which it still has today.
This car is for its fifth owner, named Bill Turnbull, the passion of his life. When he buys it in 1969, it was still wonderfully original, and Bill reconstructs its entire history of use through detailed correspondence with his four predecessors.
Bill sets out to restore the car in full respect of its original configuration. The gearbox was making noise. He disassembles the car to study its structure and discovers with stupefaction that the chassis does not conform to the S variant. The frame is thicker, 4 mm instead of 3.5 mm. This extra thickness is compensated by 27 lightening holes of various diameters, from 55 to 110 mm.
Dulcie hid its secret until 2006, when another keen Bugattist sent Bill the photos taken in 1974 of the only known surviving chassis of the 57 G variant. The comparison is clear. Unbeknownst to all its lovers, Dulcie had a 57 G racing chassis freed from its competition body and modified to 57 S by the factory for a commercial conversion, a common practice at the time.
Bill had operated his painstaking restoration for fifty years. When he dies, the job is almost done. Coming from his estate, Dulcie is estimated £ 5M for sale without reserve by Bonhams in London on February 19, lot 105. Please watch the very short video shared by the auction house.
Unlike most 57 S, Dulcie has never been fitted with a supercharger.
In early 1937, a 57 S is sent to London to be fitted with a four-seater sports Grand Routier open body by Corsica. It is nicknamed Dulcie by its first owner in reference to its registration number DUL 351, which it still has today.
This car is for its fifth owner, named Bill Turnbull, the passion of his life. When he buys it in 1969, it was still wonderfully original, and Bill reconstructs its entire history of use through detailed correspondence with his four predecessors.
Bill sets out to restore the car in full respect of its original configuration. The gearbox was making noise. He disassembles the car to study its structure and discovers with stupefaction that the chassis does not conform to the S variant. The frame is thicker, 4 mm instead of 3.5 mm. This extra thickness is compensated by 27 lightening holes of various diameters, from 55 to 110 mm.
Dulcie hid its secret until 2006, when another keen Bugattist sent Bill the photos taken in 1974 of the only known surviving chassis of the 57 G variant. The comparison is clear. Unbeknownst to all its lovers, Dulcie had a 57 G racing chassis freed from its competition body and modified to 57 S by the factory for a commercial conversion, a common practice at the time.
Bill had operated his painstaking restoration for fifty years. When he dies, the job is almost done. Coming from his estate, Dulcie is estimated £ 5M for sale without reserve by Bonhams in London on February 19, lot 105. Please watch the very short video shared by the auction house.
Unlike most 57 S, Dulcie has never been fitted with a supercharger.
1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Coupe
2017 SOLD for € 3.36M by RM Sotheby's
A 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS fitted as a goutte d'eau coupe in the same year by Figoni et Falaschi was sold for € 3.36M by RM Sotheby's on May 27, 2017, lot 151.
In 1946, possibly because of some war damage, this car had been re-fitted as a cabriolet according to the fashion of that time while the original chassis, engine and drivetrain were retained. The original teardrop coachwork including its exceptional ghost-like enclosed front fenders was re-created from 2000 by the French specialist Auto Classique Touraine through a meticulous three year restoration work.
Another Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Goutte d'eau coupe was sold for € 3.14M on May 21, 2011 by RM Auctions, lot 127. Delivered in 1938, it has the short version of the chassis and the highly rare sunroof.
In 1946, possibly because of some war damage, this car had been re-fitted as a cabriolet according to the fashion of that time while the original chassis, engine and drivetrain were retained. The original teardrop coachwork including its exceptional ghost-like enclosed front fenders was re-created from 2000 by the French specialist Auto Classique Touraine through a meticulous three year restoration work.
Another Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Goutte d'eau coupe was sold for € 3.14M on May 21, 2011 by RM Auctions, lot 127. Delivered in 1938, it has the short version of the chassis and the highly rare sunroof.
1938 Bugatti Father and Son
2009 SOLD 1.37 M$ including premium
2013 SOLD 690 K€ including premium
PRE 2013 SALE DISCUSSION
Here is a car which was already recorded in this group. This Bugatti 57C coupe was sold for $ 1.37 million including premium by Gooding in August 2009 at Pebble Beach. It came back from America with an estimate of £ 1M for sale by Bonhams on June 29, 2012 during the Festival of speed of Goodwood.
A Bugatti 57C can not reach the prestige of the lowered version 57S, but this specimen has a unique history thatmakes it particularly desirable.
Indeed, it was specially made in 1938 by the workers of the Molsheim factory to be offered as a birthday present to Ettore Bugatti. The patron's son, Jean Bugatti, had taken a particular care to equip it with the latest improvements. It was unfortunately one of the last works of this uncommon designer who was killed in 1939 driving a 57G, at the age of 30.
It was for some years kept up to date of design changes made for Bugatti post-war models.
This car remained unsold at Goodwood. I then commented that it had perhaps been too much modified to excite the collectors, but it is indeed one of the great specificities of this specimen.
It was sold by Bonhams for € 690K on 6 February 2013. Here is the link to the catalog of Goodwood. The press release of November 7 is illustrated with the same photograph.
It passed at Bonhams on February 3, 2022, lot 257.
Here is a car which was already recorded in this group. This Bugatti 57C coupe was sold for $ 1.37 million including premium by Gooding in August 2009 at Pebble Beach. It came back from America with an estimate of £ 1M for sale by Bonhams on June 29, 2012 during the Festival of speed of Goodwood.
A Bugatti 57C can not reach the prestige of the lowered version 57S, but this specimen has a unique history thatmakes it particularly desirable.
Indeed, it was specially made in 1938 by the workers of the Molsheim factory to be offered as a birthday present to Ettore Bugatti. The patron's son, Jean Bugatti, had taken a particular care to equip it with the latest improvements. It was unfortunately one of the last works of this uncommon designer who was killed in 1939 driving a 57G, at the age of 30.
It was for some years kept up to date of design changes made for Bugatti post-war models.
This car remained unsold at Goodwood. I then commented that it had perhaps been too much modified to excite the collectors, but it is indeed one of the great specificities of this specimen.
It was sold by Bonhams for € 690K on 6 February 2013. Here is the link to the catalog of Goodwood. The press release of November 7 is illustrated with the same photograph.
It passed at Bonhams on February 3, 2022, lot 257.
1938 Bugatti 57 C Atalante
2022 unsold
The Atalante body in a highly elegant Art Déco style was well suited for the lowered body of the Bugatti Type 57 S but could also be fitted on a basic 57.
A Bugatti 57 C made in 1938 with one of the last three Atalante bodies by Gangloff is one of only three Atalante fitted by the factory with both an aluminum coachwork and the supercharger, making them the lightest and fastest of all Type 57 Atalante. It was certainly an exhibition car in the 1938 Paris Salon and was sold to its first owner for an expensive 116,160 francs.
Stored hidden during the Second World War and meticulously preserved in the condition of a time capsule after several decades in a private heated garage, it retains its fragile original coachwork and its interior with much of the original finishes.
Complete and accompanied by factory letters by Ettore Bugatti, it is estimated $ 2.8M for sale by Bonhams on August 19, 2022, lot 34. The engine and the drivetrain are in matching numbers. The body was repainted in yellow in the traditional Atalante style.
A Bugatti 57 C made in 1938 with one of the last three Atalante bodies by Gangloff is one of only three Atalante fitted by the factory with both an aluminum coachwork and the supercharger, making them the lightest and fastest of all Type 57 Atalante. It was certainly an exhibition car in the 1938 Paris Salon and was sold to its first owner for an expensive 116,160 francs.
Stored hidden during the Second World War and meticulously preserved in the condition of a time capsule after several decades in a private heated garage, it retains its fragile original coachwork and its interior with much of the original finishes.
Complete and accompanied by factory letters by Ettore Bugatti, it is estimated $ 2.8M for sale by Bonhams on August 19, 2022, lot 34. The engine and the drivetrain are in matching numbers. The body was repainted in yellow in the traditional Atalante style.
1938 Bugatti 57C Atalante
2021 unsold
A Bugatti 57C Atalante will be sold by Worldwide Auctioneers in Auburn on September 4, 2021, lot 69.
The chassis is a Type 57 Series 2 invoiced by the factory in 1938, one of 710 made from 1934 to 1940. The engine is not in matching number but experts believe that it is original to the chassis. The supercharger was fitted after 1960. The body was still documented as a Ventoux coupe in 1962.
The interesting feature of this car is its current Atalante body, fitted in the 1960s. The Atalante coupes were offered in two variants, a Faux Cabriolet and a much rarer Toit Ouvrant. This one which has the rare rolling top had possibly been a 1935 prototype by Gangloff before the production of the Atalante body. 37 coupes were made from 1937 to 1939.
The chassis is a Type 57 Series 2 invoiced by the factory in 1938, one of 710 made from 1934 to 1940. The engine is not in matching number but experts believe that it is original to the chassis. The supercharger was fitted after 1960. The body was still documented as a Ventoux coupe in 1962.
The interesting feature of this car is its current Atalante body, fitted in the 1960s. The Atalante coupes were offered in two variants, a Faux Cabriolet and a much rarer Toit Ouvrant. This one which has the rare rolling top had possibly been a 1935 prototype by Gangloff before the production of the Atalante body. 37 coupes were made from 1937 to 1939.
1947 Talbot-Lago T26 Record
2022 SOLD for $ 3M by RM Sotheby's
From the glorious pre war time of the Goutte d'Eau, the specialty of Figoni et Falaschi company was to equip chassis by Delahaye and Talbot-Lago. They claimed to be the grand couturiers of coachwork, following the fashion.
At the Paris Auto Show in 1946, they exhibit the flamboyant Narval cabriolet designed for the Delahaye 135M, which takes its name from its nose evoking a cetacean sneaking into the waves.
In a similar style they made bespoke cabriolets for the Talbot-Lago T26 Record long wheelbase chassis designed in 1946.
A two door cabriolet made in 1947 on a T26 Record chassis was sold for $ 3M by RM Sotheby's on August 20, 2022, lot 317. The original engine has been rebuilt and reinstalled.
A cabriolet décapotable made in 1948 on a T26 Record Sport variant, had been a scrapyard find in 1967, still complete but in heavy wear. Now restored, it was sold for $ 1.87M by Bonhams on August 13, 2021, lot 49.
At the Paris Auto Show in 1946, they exhibit the flamboyant Narval cabriolet designed for the Delahaye 135M, which takes its name from its nose evoking a cetacean sneaking into the waves.
In a similar style they made bespoke cabriolets for the Talbot-Lago T26 Record long wheelbase chassis designed in 1946.
A two door cabriolet made in 1947 on a T26 Record chassis was sold for $ 3M by RM Sotheby's on August 20, 2022, lot 317. The original engine has been rebuilt and reinstalled.
A cabriolet décapotable made in 1948 on a T26 Record Sport variant, had been a scrapyard find in 1967, still complete but in heavy wear. Now restored, it was sold for $ 1.87M by Bonhams on August 13, 2021, lot 49.
1947 the cabriolet of the cover girl
2015 auction closed with no report online
The automotive industry restarted after the Second World War.Delahaye continued the production of their chassis 135 and of the upgraded version 135M that were before the war the leaders of the French luxury car.
Delahaye did not manufacture bodies, which excited the creativity of the designers in that post Art Déco period. Figoni et Falaschi claimed to be the grand couturiers of coachwork, in compliance with the fashion. At the Paris Auto Show in 1946, they exhibit the Narval cabriolet designed for the Delahaye 135M.
The Narval makes a hit in this world yet accustomed to extravagance. It owes its name to the shape of its nose evoking a cetacean sneaking into the waves. The wealthiest can buy it to please a beautiful woman. Seven Narvals were built. The prince Ali Khan buys one of them for Rita Hayworth, the sex symbol of the cinema of her time.
Another Narval manufactured in 1947 begins another sort of glamorous career. This Delahaye was sold new to Mark B. Deitsch, manufacturer of ladies' footwear of Prima brand in Ohio, who used it to illustrate his advertisements in the magazines. His car received the nickname of Cover Girl.
A later owner reversed the engine of Cover Girl with that of a Delahaye 135 bodied by Antem. Both cars were recently joined again within a collection. The Delahaye 135M retains its original Narval coachwork.
On August 15 in Monterey, Rick Cole sells this car at lot 900 with its original engine separately displayed. The auction does not include a floor session and the bids are received during the exhibition. The body in poor condition of the 135 Antem may be provided by the seller to the winning bidder. Here is the link to theauction house's website.
Delahaye did not manufacture bodies, which excited the creativity of the designers in that post Art Déco period. Figoni et Falaschi claimed to be the grand couturiers of coachwork, in compliance with the fashion. At the Paris Auto Show in 1946, they exhibit the Narval cabriolet designed for the Delahaye 135M.
The Narval makes a hit in this world yet accustomed to extravagance. It owes its name to the shape of its nose evoking a cetacean sneaking into the waves. The wealthiest can buy it to please a beautiful woman. Seven Narvals were built. The prince Ali Khan buys one of them for Rita Hayworth, the sex symbol of the cinema of her time.
Another Narval manufactured in 1947 begins another sort of glamorous career. This Delahaye was sold new to Mark B. Deitsch, manufacturer of ladies' footwear of Prima brand in Ohio, who used it to illustrate his advertisements in the magazines. His car received the nickname of Cover Girl.
A later owner reversed the engine of Cover Girl with that of a Delahaye 135 bodied by Antem. Both cars were recently joined again within a collection. The Delahaye 135M retains its original Narval coachwork.
On August 15 in Monterey, Rick Cole sells this car at lot 900 with its original engine separately displayed. The auction does not include a floor session and the bids are received during the exhibition. The body in poor condition of the 135 Antem may be provided by the seller to the winning bidder. Here is the link to theauction house's website.
1948 Talbot Lago T26 by Figoni et Falaschi
2021 SOLD for $ 1.87M by Bonhams
From the glorious pre war time of the Goutte d'Eau, the specialty of Figoni et Falaschi company was to equip chassis by Delahaye and Talbot-Lago. They claimed to be the grand couturiers of coachwork, following the fashion.
At the Paris Auto Show in 1946, they exhibit the flamboyant Narval cabriolet designed for the Delahaye 135M, which takes its name from its nose evoking a cetacean sneaking into the waves.
In a similar style they made four bespoke cabriolets décapotables for the Talbot-Lago T26 Record chassis designed in 1946. Two survive. One of them, made in 1948, had been a scrapyard find in 1967, still complete but in heavy wear. Now restored, it was sold for $ 1.87M by Bonhams on August 13, 2021, lot 49.
At the Paris Auto Show in 1946, they exhibit the flamboyant Narval cabriolet designed for the Delahaye 135M, which takes its name from its nose evoking a cetacean sneaking into the waves.
In a similar style they made four bespoke cabriolets décapotables for the Talbot-Lago T26 Record chassis designed in 1946. Two survive. One of them, made in 1948, had been a scrapyard find in 1967, still complete but in heavy wear. Now restored, it was sold for $ 1.87M by Bonhams on August 13, 2021, lot 49.
1953 Gordini in French Blue
2014 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
It is not enough to be a skilled engineer to successfully build racing cars, you must also be a businessman. After several years in association with Simca, Amédée Gordini tried to gain the independence of his brand in 1951.
The Gordini cars from this phase of autonomy are very rare. On February 5 in Paris, RM Auctions sells a Gordini 24 S made in 1953, estimated € 3M.
This car well started its career, with a participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and a victory in the Tour de France. It also competed in other prestigious endurance races of that time such as the Mille Miglia and the Carrera Panamericana.
Then came the meeting of Gordini and Françoise Sagan, in 1956. The industrialist was close to bankruptcy. The young woman aged 21 was ready for all eccentricities to maintain her reputation as a fashionable novelist. She purchased this car. The catalog of the auction house tells that Gordini demanded that she should pay the salary arrears owed by him to his employees.
Sagan had a very serious accident in the following year while driving an Aston Martin. She sold shortly afterward her Gordini that came to appear again in competitions.
The transaction with Sagan was not sufficient, of course, to save the Gordini company. Renault took advantage of the technical reputation of Amédée nicknamed le Sorcier (the Wizard). As early as 1957, the Dauphine Gordini is the first example of the new Gordini product line by Renault.
I invite you to play the video shared on YouTube by RM Auctions.
It is not enough to be a skilled engineer to successfully build racing cars, you must also be a businessman. After several years in association with Simca, Amédée Gordini tried to gain the independence of his brand in 1951.
The Gordini cars from this phase of autonomy are very rare. On February 5 in Paris, RM Auctions sells a Gordini 24 S made in 1953, estimated € 3M.
This car well started its career, with a participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and a victory in the Tour de France. It also competed in other prestigious endurance races of that time such as the Mille Miglia and the Carrera Panamericana.
Then came the meeting of Gordini and Françoise Sagan, in 1956. The industrialist was close to bankruptcy. The young woman aged 21 was ready for all eccentricities to maintain her reputation as a fashionable novelist. She purchased this car. The catalog of the auction house tells that Gordini demanded that she should pay the salary arrears owed by him to his employees.
Sagan had a very serious accident in the following year while driving an Aston Martin. She sold shortly afterward her Gordini that came to appear again in competitions.
The transaction with Sagan was not sufficient, of course, to save the Gordini company. Renault took advantage of the technical reputation of Amédée nicknamed le Sorcier (the Wizard). As early as 1957, the Dauphine Gordini is the first example of the new Gordini product line by Renault.
I invite you to play the video shared on YouTube by RM Auctions.
1969 Matra in the Wind
2009 SOLD 1.5 M€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
On February 8 in Paris, Artcurial sell the first unit of Matra MS650. Made in 1969, this car was designed for endurance competitions, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans where it participated.
The objective of the French firm Matra was to bring something new in this sector of the car market, and it succeeded. Its engine type V-12 had a special buzz, announcing to the ear the passage of the car before it was visible.
Moreover, its very low and very compact shape did not take the wind, with the wheels being well protected under the bodywork. Designed to be functional, it is a beautiful object, color blue sky.
The auctioneer who presents it on behalf of Artcurial, Hervé Poulain, is an experienced pilot who perhaps even competed against this "monster", a term he uses himself passionately in the video published on the site of Artcurial. Wikipedia indicates several participations of Hervé Poulain in Le Mans between 1975 and 1998. The Matra brand left Formula 1 at the end of the 1972 season and endurance race two years later.
How much will this car be valued? We must wait for the catalog to get an idea.
Endurance and Formula 1 are different markets. I remind for information only the sale of the unique copy of Matra MS 9 by Artcurial, 245 K € excluding charges, on 20 June 2005. This Formula 1 car dates of 1967-1968. It could be considered as a test vehicle.
POST SALE COMMENT
Artcurial had announced that the Matra could exceed € 1.5 million. This price was recorded, but including the costs.
My article supposed that the price of such a scarcity is hardly predictable. In addition, circuit cars are often at lower prices than road cars. I therefore consider that this price is excellent.
On February 8 in Paris, Artcurial sell the first unit of Matra MS650. Made in 1969, this car was designed for endurance competitions, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans where it participated.
The objective of the French firm Matra was to bring something new in this sector of the car market, and it succeeded. Its engine type V-12 had a special buzz, announcing to the ear the passage of the car before it was visible.
Moreover, its very low and very compact shape did not take the wind, with the wheels being well protected under the bodywork. Designed to be functional, it is a beautiful object, color blue sky.
The auctioneer who presents it on behalf of Artcurial, Hervé Poulain, is an experienced pilot who perhaps even competed against this "monster", a term he uses himself passionately in the video published on the site of Artcurial. Wikipedia indicates several participations of Hervé Poulain in Le Mans between 1975 and 1998. The Matra brand left Formula 1 at the end of the 1972 season and endurance race two years later.
How much will this car be valued? We must wait for the catalog to get an idea.
Endurance and Formula 1 are different markets. I remind for information only the sale of the unique copy of Matra MS 9 by Artcurial, 245 K € excluding charges, on 20 June 2005. This Formula 1 car dates of 1967-1968. It could be considered as a test vehicle.
POST SALE COMMENT
Artcurial had announced that the Matra could exceed € 1.5 million. This price was recorded, but including the costs.
My article supposed that the price of such a scarcity is hardly predictable. In addition, circuit cars are often at lower prices than road cars. I therefore consider that this price is excellent.
1975 André Moynet in Glory during 24 hours
2009 SOLD 180 K€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The case is probably unique. An individual decides to build a car specifically to win (in its category) one of the most prestigious endurance races in Europe ... He wins and then decides to leave the competition.
In 1975, Colonel André Moynet is not a beginner. Fighter pilot during the Second World War, he worked on the development of the Caravelle aircraft of Sud-Aviation, which was one of the greatest achievements of civil aviation.
After a failure in 1968, he built in 1975 with the help of Matra a car equipped with an engine of less than 2,000 cc. Completed just before the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Moynet LM75 is driven by three women, who won the race. They achieve 269 rounds, which puts them at the 21 st place in all categories, but they are winning in their volume category.
Then hop : go to the museum! End of story, no further copy !
It comes out on February 4 in Mougins, France, under the hammer of Maîtres Wetterwald and Rannou-Cassegrain who operate the Hôtel des Ventes Nice Riviera. You can find other interesting details in the video onInterencheres.tv where Capucine Bordet interviews the expert of the sale, Henri Pluton (in French).
It is French blue. Aesthetically, it is beautiful. It is in the same condition as when it finished the race on 15 June 1975, and it is estimated 140 K €.
POST SALE COMMENT
The Moynet car was sold for 180 K€ including fees.
The case is probably unique. An individual decides to build a car specifically to win (in its category) one of the most prestigious endurance races in Europe ... He wins and then decides to leave the competition.
In 1975, Colonel André Moynet is not a beginner. Fighter pilot during the Second World War, he worked on the development of the Caravelle aircraft of Sud-Aviation, which was one of the greatest achievements of civil aviation.
After a failure in 1968, he built in 1975 with the help of Matra a car equipped with an engine of less than 2,000 cc. Completed just before the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Moynet LM75 is driven by three women, who won the race. They achieve 269 rounds, which puts them at the 21 st place in all categories, but they are winning in their volume category.
Then hop : go to the museum! End of story, no further copy !
It comes out on February 4 in Mougins, France, under the hammer of Maîtres Wetterwald and Rannou-Cassegrain who operate the Hôtel des Ventes Nice Riviera. You can find other interesting details in the video onInterencheres.tv where Capucine Bordet interviews the expert of the sale, Henri Pluton (in French).
It is French blue. Aesthetically, it is beautiful. It is in the same condition as when it finished the race on 15 June 1975, and it is estimated 140 K €.
POST SALE COMMENT
The Moynet car was sold for 180 K€ including fees.
2007 Peugeot sells a Car
2012 SOLD 1.7 M€ including premium
Motor racing is always tempting for car brands. It helps developing new technologies, demonstrating their reliability and attracting public attention.
Peugeot achieved success with the 905. They stopped it in 2005 to focus efforts on new developments. The model 908 HDi FAP has enjoyed a great success since its first competition in 2007.
Designed for endurance, it enters the LMP1 category (Le Mans Prototype). It inaugurates the success at the highest level of diesel based technologies (HDi FAP is the name of the engine). Note that the nomenclature of vehicles often creates confusion: the Peugeot 908 HDi FAP has nothing in common with the Peugeot 908.
In January 2012, Peugeot announced their withdrawal from endurance racing. Ten Peugeot 908 HDi FAP had been built.
The parent company PSA sells for the first time one of these vehicles. To be auctioned in Monaco on May 12 by RM Auctions, this car with an outstanding competition history is the first to be offered for private ownership. It is estimated € 1.5 M. It is illustrated on the article shared by Speed.
POST SALE COMMENT
The Peugeot car was sold exactly at its lower estimate: € 1.5 million hammer price.
Peugeot achieved success with the 905. They stopped it in 2005 to focus efforts on new developments. The model 908 HDi FAP has enjoyed a great success since its first competition in 2007.
Designed for endurance, it enters the LMP1 category (Le Mans Prototype). It inaugurates the success at the highest level of diesel based technologies (HDi FAP is the name of the engine). Note that the nomenclature of vehicles often creates confusion: the Peugeot 908 HDi FAP has nothing in common with the Peugeot 908.
In January 2012, Peugeot announced their withdrawal from endurance racing. Ten Peugeot 908 HDi FAP had been built.
The parent company PSA sells for the first time one of these vehicles. To be auctioned in Monaco on May 12 by RM Auctions, this car with an outstanding competition history is the first to be offered for private ownership. It is estimated € 1.5 M. It is illustrated on the article shared by Speed.
POST SALE COMMENT
The Peugeot car was sold exactly at its lower estimate: € 1.5 million hammer price.
2008 The Post-Veyron Era (2014)
2014 SOLD 1.38 M$ including premium
Bugatti, a subsidiary of Volkswagen, had a resounding success with the Veyron 16.4 model. Released in 2005, it was twice upgraded, Grand Sport in 2009 and Super Sport in 2010.
Finding its customers among celebrities and hyperriches, this "hypercar" needs to remain the fastest car approved for the road. The end of production of the Veyron is imminent. Bugatti must now do better.
Various informations have circulated about the future. The project of a five-door sedan was dropped. Slower than a two-door coupe, such a variant does not meet a need.
The owners rarely use their hypercars, whatever the brand. Probably the risk of vandalism is too high. Many of these wonders that come up for auction are still almost new.
In this transition phase, Bugatti is interested in cars previously shipped, to verify, repair if needed and recertify with a new warranty before a change of ownership.
One of the first beneficiaries of the Bugatti recertification program had been delivered in 2008 to TV producer Simon Cowell and displays 2100 Km on the clock. It is entirely black, inside and outside. It is for sale on January 18 by Barrett Jackson in Scottsdale. Here is the link to the press release.
The planned shutdown of a model changes the value of the used cars. The post-Veyron era starts current week.
POST SALE COMMENT
Good result for the hypercar, sold for $ 1.38M including premium.
Finding its customers among celebrities and hyperriches, this "hypercar" needs to remain the fastest car approved for the road. The end of production of the Veyron is imminent. Bugatti must now do better.
Various informations have circulated about the future. The project of a five-door sedan was dropped. Slower than a two-door coupe, such a variant does not meet a need.
The owners rarely use their hypercars, whatever the brand. Probably the risk of vandalism is too high. Many of these wonders that come up for auction are still almost new.
In this transition phase, Bugatti is interested in cars previously shipped, to verify, repair if needed and recertify with a new warranty before a change of ownership.
One of the first beneficiaries of the Bugatti recertification program had been delivered in 2008 to TV producer Simon Cowell and displays 2100 Km on the clock. It is entirely black, inside and outside. It is for sale on January 18 by Barrett Jackson in Scottsdale. Here is the link to the press release.
The planned shutdown of a model changes the value of the used cars. The post-Veyron era starts current week.
POST SALE COMMENT
Good result for the hypercar, sold for $ 1.38M including premium.
2010 European Supercars
2013 SOLD 910 K€ including premium
In 1998 Volkswagen purchased the Bugatti trademark and created a subsidiary to operate it. A new workshop is located in Molsheim, the small town in Alsace where the previous history of Bugatti had taken place.
The target is to make the most powerful commercial car in the world. Only one model is developed, but it will achieve this goal: the Bugatti Veyron 16.4. It develops 1000 horsepower, exceeds 400 km / h and reaches 100 km / h in 2.5 seconds.
The commercial success is exceptional. Since 2005, more than 450 units have been produced. The world's leaders want a Bugatti Veyron.
International relations have unexpected consequences. In 2011, the French justice confiscates nine upscale cars to the son of an African president. The oldest dates from 2005. They are now owned by the French state, which sells them on July 8 in Paris. The judicial sale is entrusted to Maître Damien Libert. I invite you to see the slideshow shared by Planet.fr.
Two nearly new Bugattis are highlighting this set of wonders: one made in 2007 in the basic model, with about 2800 km on the odometer. The other one, from the improved Grand Sport variant, has only about 1200 km on the odometer. It dates from 2010, the year of the commercial release of that variant.
Sorry! The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, released in 2011, is too recent to be included in that collection.
Here is a recent auction result: in the sale of 20 to 22 June in Newport Beach, Russo and Steele sold for $ 1.08 million including premium a Bugatti Veyron made in 2008.
POST SALE COMMENT
The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport won the top result of the sale, € 800K, about half of its commercial price in mint condition. Such a ratio at auction is common for vehicles that are still available from the brand. The same comment applies to the other Bugatti that sold for € 510K.
The good surprise of that sale came from of one of the oldest cars in the collection, a Maserati MC12 made in 2005, sold for € 640K.
These prices do not include fees.
The target is to make the most powerful commercial car in the world. Only one model is developed, but it will achieve this goal: the Bugatti Veyron 16.4. It develops 1000 horsepower, exceeds 400 km / h and reaches 100 km / h in 2.5 seconds.
The commercial success is exceptional. Since 2005, more than 450 units have been produced. The world's leaders want a Bugatti Veyron.
International relations have unexpected consequences. In 2011, the French justice confiscates nine upscale cars to the son of an African president. The oldest dates from 2005. They are now owned by the French state, which sells them on July 8 in Paris. The judicial sale is entrusted to Maître Damien Libert. I invite you to see the slideshow shared by Planet.fr.
Two nearly new Bugattis are highlighting this set of wonders: one made in 2007 in the basic model, with about 2800 km on the odometer. The other one, from the improved Grand Sport variant, has only about 1200 km on the odometer. It dates from 2010, the year of the commercial release of that variant.
Sorry! The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport, released in 2011, is too recent to be included in that collection.
Here is a recent auction result: in the sale of 20 to 22 June in Newport Beach, Russo and Steele sold for $ 1.08 million including premium a Bugatti Veyron made in 2008.
POST SALE COMMENT
The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport won the top result of the sale, € 800K, about half of its commercial price in mint condition. Such a ratio at auction is common for vehicles that are still available from the brand. The same comment applies to the other Bugatti that sold for € 510K.
The good surprise of that sale came from of one of the oldest cars in the collection, a Maserati MC12 made in 2005, sold for € 640K.
These prices do not include fees.
