The Bugatti Type 55 was unveiled at the 1931 Paris Motor Show, and Jean Bugatti’s Supersport stole the spotlight, standing out as an exceptional machine with a maximum speed of 180 km/h. Based on Bugatti’s Grand Prix car chassis, it deviated from the giant 16-cylinder engine, instead housing a smaller, supercharged eight-cylinder engine with a displacement of 2.3 liters and a gearbox with four gear ratios. Despite its modest output of 130 horsepower by today’s standards, it was considered exotic in the early thirties.
Its second significant appearance came a few months later at the 1932 Mile Miglia race when Bugatti’s renowned driver, Achille Varzi, drove alongside the Duke of Castelbarco. Only one Type 55 participated in that race, making it the most sought-after today.
Produced between 1931 and 1935, only 38 units hit the road. Among them, 16 were open-top roadsters, and seven were closed coupes – all featuring bodies crafted by Bugatti himself. The remaining 15 were completed by external coachbuilders. To this day, the Type 55 is considered one of the rarest Bugattis ever produced. A fusion of high performance, superb craftsmanship, and an artistic approach to engineering, reflecting the Bugatti family’s artistic inclination.
In conclusion: If it’s classic – it’s this one.
Price: Around 10 million dollars.
