Description

The Bugatti Type 35 Grand Prix is one of the most iconic and successful racing cars of the 1920s—and indeed, of all time. Introduced in 1924, it represented a culmination of Ettore Bugatti’s engineering philosophy: lightweight construction, mechanical simplicity, and unmatched aesthetic elegance. The Type 35 quickly became the dominant force in Grand Prix and road racing, earning more than 1,000 victories over its competitive lifespan and helping to cement Bugatti’s reputation as a premier builder of performance machines.

At the heart of the Type 35 was a 2.0-litre straight-eight engine, originally producing around 90 horsepower in naturally aspirated form. This engine used a single overhead camshaft and three valves per cylinder, and in later variants, such as the supercharged Type 35B, output rose significantly to over 135 horsepower. The engine was compact and smooth-running, mounted in a lightweight chassis that contributed to the car’s exceptional agility and responsiveness.

The chassis and suspension were equally advanced. The Type 35 featured a hollow front axle and alloy wheels with integral brake drums—both innovative weight-saving features. The handling was precise, and the ride remarkably composed for a racing car of the era. It also benefited from meticulous attention to detail in its construction; every component, from the engine to the dashboard instruments, was finished with craftsmanship rarely seen even in high-performance cars.

Visually, the Type 35 was a masterpiece. Its long, narrow bonnet, horseshoe-shaped radiator, and fluid bodywork gave it a timeless beauty. Unlike many of its contemporaries, which often appeared hastily constructed or purely utilitarian, the Type 35 embodied Bugatti’s belief that a race car should be as beautiful as it is fast.

The car achieved major successes in events such as the Targa Florio, French Grand Prix, and countless hill climbs and national championships across Europe. It was driven by both factory drivers and privateers, thanks to its combination of reliability, speed, and ease of maintenance.

The Bugatti Type 35 Grand Prix is more than just a competition car—it is a symbol of 1920s motor racing and a lasting testament to the genius of Ettore Bugatti. Its influence stretched far beyond its racing years, inspiring generations of engineers, designers, and enthusiasts with its blend of artistry and engineering excellence.