Description

The Bugatti Type 101 Coupe by Gangloff was a significant post-war effort to revive the Bugatti marque. Introduced in 1951, the Type 101 was developed from the pre-war Type 57, featuring a 3.3-liter straight-eight engine producing approximately 135 horsepower. The chassis retained the ladder-frame structure and solid axles of its predecessor, with updates such as hydraulic drum brakes.

Gangloff, a long-standing Bugatti coachbuilder based in Colmar, France, crafted the Coupe’s bodywork. The design showcased a blend of traditional Bugatti aesthetics and contemporary styling cues of the early 1950s, including integrated fenders and a streamlined profile. Notably, the front end bore a resemblance to the Jaguar XK120, reflecting the evolving design trends of the era.

Despite its elegant design, the Type 101 faced challenges in the post-war automotive market. The use of pre-war mechanical components rendered it less competitive against more modern vehicles. Additionally, the car’s engine displacement placed it in a high tax bracket under French regulations, further limiting its appeal.

Only eight Type 101 chassis were produced, with various coachbuilders, including Gangloff, Guilloré, Antem, and Ghia, contributing to the limited body styles. The Gangloff-bodied Coupe, chassis number 57454, was displayed at the 1951 Paris Salon and is currently housed in the Schlumpf Collection at the Cité de l’Automobile in Mulhouse, France.

Today, the Bugatti Type 101 Coupe by Gangloff stands as a rare and elegant example of post-war automotive design, reflecting both the legacy of Bugatti and the transitional period of the early 1950s.