COMPANY

When you come from a long line of artists you can't help but design an attractive vehicle. This was the case with Ettore Bugatti in 1909. Combining an attractive exterior with a high performance engine was the key to Bugatti's success.

Unfortunately only Bugatti 8,000 vehicles were made. Tragedy struck, and with the death of Ettore Bugatti in 1947 the company began a downhill spiral.

Racing success was achieved with the Bugatti Type 35. It won over 1,000 races including the Grand Prix World Championship as well as the Targa Florio created by Bugatti himself. It achieved first place in the Targa Florio from 1925 until 1929. While the Type 35 was the original, other versions were produced including the Type 35A, also known as Tecla, which was less expensive than the original.

The Bugatti Type 35C was next, but it was the Type 35T that led to all of the wins at the Targa Florio. The Type 35B was the final model in the line. Type 37 and the supercharged Type 37A were sports cars that kept with the traditions of the Type 35 including the overall body style. After making a change to the engine, the Type 39 was created.

A luxury line was created with the Bugatti Royale, also known as Type 41. While Bugatti had high hopes for this vehicle, only six were made. It is one of the most rare cars in the world. At the time, only three of the six made were sold. From 1932 to 1935 the Bugatti Type 55 vehicle was made. Much like other lines from Bugatti, only 38 were made.

Jean Bugatti (Ettore's son) became more involved in the design of the Bugatti Type 57. From 1934 to 1940, 710 were made. It was originally created to be a touring car even though it was able to reach a top speed of 95 mph. The Type 57T was created more for performance and the Type 57C was a true racing vehicle. The Type 57S was lowered and included a nearly independent suspension. To this day it is one of the most recognized Bugatti vehicles with just 43 being built.

After the loss of his son Jean to an accident while testing a new racecar, things took a turn for the worst. Like other car manufacturers, World War II had financial repercussions. To the end, Ettore Bugatti continued to press on, but his death in 1947 ended all chances that the company could continue. Volkswagen currently owns the right to produce vehicles with the Bugatti name.