The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe stands as a legendary masterpiece in the world of classic automobiles. Combining exquisite craftsmanship, innovative engineering, and a stunning body design by the renowned coachbuilder Gangloff, this car is a symbol of automotive elegance from the pre-war era. This article dives deep into the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe specs, detailing its engine, performance, design features, and historical significance.
Historical Background of the Bugatti Type 57 Series
The Bugatti Type 57 series was produced from 1934 to 1940, representing one of the marque’s most successful and iconic models. Designed by Jean Bugatti, the son of founder Ettore Bugatti, the Type 57 was praised for its combination of power, grace, and technical sophistication.
The “C” in Type 57C denotes the supercharged variant, which significantly enhanced the car’s performance. The Type 57C models are considered some of the most desirable classic cars, particularly those with custom coachwork by prestigious firms such as Gangloff.
Overview of the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe
The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe is a rare and exquisite example of the Type 57C, featuring bodywork by Gangloff, a respected French coachbuilder. The “Atlante” Coupe design is distinguished by its smooth, aerodynamic lines, sweeping curves, and an elegant two-door coupe silhouette.
This model epitomizes the luxury and engineering prowess of late 1930s Bugatti, combining a high-performance engine with one of the most beautiful and functional coachbuilt bodies of the era.
Engine Specifications of the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe
At the heart of the 1939 Type 57C lies a powerful supercharged engine designed for both speed and reliability:
- Engine Type: Inline 8-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts)
- Displacement: 3.3 liters (3,257 cc)
- Supercharger: Roots-type supercharger fitted on the Type 57C variant
- Horsepower: Approximately 160 horsepower (at around 5,000 rpm)
- Torque: Estimated 230 Nm (Newton meters)
- Fuel System: Carbureted with precision fuel delivery optimized for performance
- Cooling System: Water-cooled engine block with efficient radiator design
The supercharged inline-eight engine allowed the Type 57C to reach impressive speeds for its time, making it one of the fastest road cars available before World War II.
Performance and Driving Experience
The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe delivered exhilarating performance, setting it apart from many contemporaries:
- Top Speed: Approximately 125 mph (201 km/h), an exceptional feat in 1939
- Acceleration: Capable of reaching 0-60 mph in around 8 seconds, which was rapid for the era
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox providing smooth power delivery
- Chassis: Rigid steel frame ensuring stability at high speeds
- Suspension: Semi-elliptic leaf springs front and rear, offering a balance between comfort and handling
Driving the Type 57C was a thrilling experience, blending precision engineering with the pure joy of commanding a powerful and responsive car wrapped in beautiful coachwork.
Gangloff Coachwork and Design Features
One of the defining characteristics of the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe is its distinctive body designed by the Gangloff coachbuilding company. Gangloff was renowned for their elegant and aerodynamic designs, often collaborating with Bugatti on bespoke bodies.
Exterior Design
- Body Style: Two-door coupe, featuring flowing lines and streamlined contours
- Materials: Lightweight steel and aluminum panels hand-shaped for optimal aerodynamics
- Distinctive Elements: Large sweeping fenders, a sloping rear roofline, and integrated headlights
- Paint and Finish: Often finished in rich, deep colors with meticulous attention to detail
Interior Design
- Luxury Materials: High-quality leather upholstery, polished wood trim, and chrome accents
- Dashboard: Elegant instrument cluster with classic gauges and controls
- Seating: Comfortable seating designed for long-distance touring and sport driving
- Unique Features: Gangloff often included custom touches like embroidered logos and unique trim pieces
Historical Significance and Rarity
The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe is extremely rare, with only a few examples surviving today. It represents the pinnacle of pre-war automotive design, blending engineering innovation with artistic craftsmanship.
- Collector Value: The rarity and provenance make it highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
- Auction Results: These cars have fetched multi-million-dollar prices at prestigious auctions.
- Legacy: The Atlante Coupe stands as a testament to the golden era of coachbuilding and Bugatti’s commitment to performance.
Restoration and Preservation Considerations
Due to its age and rarity, maintaining or restoring a 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe requires specialized knowledge and parts:
- Authentic Parts: Sourcing original or reproduction parts, including supercharger components and body panels
- Expertise: Restoration often entrusted to experts familiar with pre-war Bugatti models
- Documentation: Keeping detailed historical records and provenance to maintain value
- Mechanical Overhaul: Careful engine tuning and chassis refurbishment to preserve drivability
Conclusion
The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe specs reveal a car that is much more than just a vehicle—it’s a rolling work of art and a marvel of early 20th-century automotive engineering. From its powerful supercharged inline-eight engine to its stunning Gangloff body, this car encapsulates elegance, speed, and exclusivity.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the Type 57C Atlante Coupe is a dream car that carries the legacy of Bugatti’s pre-war excellence. Its rarity and performance continue to captivate automotive historians and classic car fans worldwide, ensuring its place in the annals of motoring history.
