Description

The Bugatti Type 35NE was a little-known and rare derivative of the legendary Type 35 series, developed specifically for the Greek market during the early 1930s. The “NE” designation stands for “Nouvelle Egypte” (New Egypt), although the model is more commonly associated with a small batch of cars exported to Greece. These vehicles were tailored for use in regions with lower fuel quality and less reliable road infrastructure, which required a slightly modified approach to performance and durability.

Mechanically, the Type 35NE was distinct from the core Type 35 racing models. It used a 1.5-litre inline-eight engine derived from the earlier Type 30 or 35A, but it lacked the high-performance features of the competition-spec variants. The engine was designed to be robust and simple, with reduced compression to handle poor-quality fuels more effectively. This meant lower overall horsepower—closer to 50 or 60 hp—but it maintained a level of refinement and smoothness that made it well-suited to touring use in harsher environments.

Unlike its racing siblings, the 35NE was not equipped with a supercharger. It also often featured a simpler braking system and a slightly softened suspension setup, allowing for more comfortable driving over rough or unpaved roads. The chassis remained light and agile, retaining many of the classic Type 35 characteristics, including the signature hollow front axle and alloy wheels with integrated brake drums, though these may have varied between individual builds.

In terms of appearance, the 35NE still carried the iconic Bugatti styling—long bonnet, rounded radiator, and flowing tail—though some cars were fitted with slightly more utilitarian bodywork or local modifications to suit regional preferences. It was elegant yet restrained, a blend of Bugatti flair and practical adaptability.

Only a handful of Type 35NE cars were ever built, making it one of the rarest members of the Type 35 family. Though it never achieved racing glory like its more famous siblings, the 35NE reflects Bugatti’s willingness to adapt its designs to meet unique demands. It remains a fascinating footnote in the marque’s storied history, offering insight into how the brand balanced luxury, engineering excellence, and practical requirements in markets far from Molsheim.