The Bugatti Type 57S represents the pinnacle of pre-war automotive engineering, a machine where art and science converge with breathtaking precision. Introduced in 1936, this grand tourer emerged from the Atelier Jean Bugatti as a response to the growing demand for a more refined and comfortable high-performance vehicle. It retained the legendary 3.3-liter inline-ohc straight-8 engine from the Type 57, but under the hood and within its chassis lay significant upgrades that transformed its character. The "S" designation signified "Surbaissé," meaning lowered, a crucial change that lowered the car's center of gravity for superior handling. This model line became the favored mount of the European elite, offering a blend of raw power and sophisticated grace that remains unmatched.
The Heart of the Beast: Engineering the Inline-8
Powering the Type 57S is the same 3,257cc inline-ohc straight-8 that defined its predecessor, but with a critical enhancement. The engine was bored out slightly and, more importantly, equipped with a Roots-type supercharger as an optional extra. This blower, activated by a dashboard lever, could coax an additional 30 horsepower from the unit, pushing the total output to around 180 hp in supercharged form. The standard configuration delivered a robust 175 hp, mated to a four-speed manual gearbox and available with a conventional or optional Cotal pre-selector gearbox. This powertrain provided a linear surge of power, accompanied by the intoxicating mechanical symphony of valves popping and the supercharger's distinct whine, a sound that remains iconic to this day.
Design and Aerodynamics: The Lowered Chassis
The Surbaissé Innovation
The most visually striking and mechanically significant change was the lowered chassis, which sat nearly 40mm lower than the standard Type 57. This wasn't merely cosmetic; it was a fundamental shift in the car's center of gravity. The result was dramatically improved stability at high speeds and more responsive, precise cornering. The suspension retained the advanced de Dion tube rear axle and semi-elliptic leaf springs upfront, ensuring that the power was delivered effectively to the road. This combination of a potent engine and a planted chassis gave the Type 57S a rare duality, excelling both on the open highway and through winding mountain passes.
The Body: A Canvas for Artistry
Bugatti offered the Type 57S as a rolling chassis, allowing discerning clients to commission bespoke bodies from the most celebrated coachbuilders of the era. Names like Gangloff, Weymann, and Figoni & Falaschi created some of the most desirable examples, each piece a sculpture on wheels. The aerodynamic "ponton" style bodies became particularly fashionable, featuring flowing lines, integrated fenders, and a clean, elegant profile. The interior was a testament to French luxury, finished with Connolly leather, intricate wood veneers, and meticulous attention to detail. Owning a Type 57S was as much about the statement of the body as it was about the mechanical masterpiece beneath it.
Performance and Legacy on the Road and Track
In practice, the Type 57S delivered a thrilling yet manageable driving experience. With a top speed of approximately 120 mph, it was one of the fastest production cars of its time. The steering, while heavy by modern standards, was remarkably precise, giving the driver a direct connection to the road. Its grand touring nature meant it could cover vast distances in comfort, making it a favorite for journeys across the European continent. This blend of performance, reliability, and luxury cemented its reputation not just as a race car, but as the ultimate expression of the grand tourer. Today, Type 57S chassis numbers are among the most valuable and sought-after automotive artifacts in the world.
Enduring Influence and Collector Appeal
More perspective on Bugatti type 57s can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
