Description

The Bugatti Type 101 Berline by Guilloré is a rare and distinctive example of post-war automotive craftsmanship, reflecting Bugatti’s attempt to revive its legacy during a challenging period.

Chassis number 101500, constructed in 1952, features a four-door saloon body styled by Louis Lepoix and executed by the Guilloré coachbuilding firm of Courbevoie, France. The design showcases a modern, wide-bodied aesthetic characteristic of the post-war era, diverging from Bugatti’s pre-war styling cues. This vehicle is currently part of the Schlumpf Collection at the Cité de l’Automobile in Mulhouse, France.

Another notable example is chassis 101502, a two-door coach also bodied by Guilloré. This unique vehicle features a dark blue exterior with porthole windows and is distinguished by its separate fenders, a design element more common in pre-war automobiles. Interestingly, the bodywork was originally intended for a Delahaye but was adapted for the Bugatti chassis. Chassis 101502 was sold at a Bonhams auction in Paris in 2008 for €185,700.

Both vehicles are powered by Bugatti’s renowned 3.3-liter straight-eight engine, delivering approximately 135 horsepower. They utilize a four-speed manual transmission and retain the solid axle suspension system from the pre-war Type 57, upon which the Type 101 was based.

The Type 101 Berline by Guilloré exemplifies Bugatti’s dedication to elegance and performance, even during a period of significant transition. These models serve as a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy and its efforts to adapt to the evolving automotive landscape of the mid-20th century.