Few road cars can rival the Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante, one of the rarest Bugatti models in history and one of the first to come with the automaker’s “low-headlight” design in 1937.
Ettore Bugatti didn’t design this ride himself, though. It’s actually courtesy of his son, Jean. Clearly, genius is genetic, because this car is packing serious aesthetic aplomb. Ettore’s craft certainly rubbed off on Jean, and look no further the the above image if you need proof.
Bugatti only ever built 48 Type 57SC Atalante units. And only 17 of them came with the Atalante coachwork as seen on this particular model now up for auction at RM Sotheby’s. It’s got a twin-cam straight-eight motor, which it borrows from the Type 49. However, it comes modified with a period-correct supercharger.
But beyond the specs sheet, you’ll appreciate this ride’s storied journey. From its completion in 1937 to its complete restoration care of RM Auto Restoration in 2013, everything is well-documented. You’ll learn that Jean Lévy first owned the ride, deputy Administrator of a grain milling company. He later later handed it off to Maurice Weber, a livestock feed manager, in 1941.
But lo and behold, it’s here. In all its vintage glory. Chassis no. 57551, seen above, is one of the most beautiful, desirable, best-performing, and advanced of all Bugatti cars. Pricing is available upon request, but we imagine it will cost a fortune to have this thing in your private collection. You can contact RM Sotheby’s if you’re interested. Click the link below to learn more.
Photos courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
