Description
The Bugatti Type 38 Roadster was a stylish and refined sports tourer produced in the late 1920s, blending the elegant bodywork and craftsmanship typical of Bugatti with reliable performance suited for both spirited driving and comfortable long-distance touring. Introduced in 1926, the Type 38 occupied a unique space in the Bugatti lineup, positioned as a road-oriented counterpart to the more competition-focused models, yet still bearing the marque’s distinctive engineering flair.
Powering the Type 38 was a 2.0-litre straight-eight engine derived from the more powerful Type 35A, sometimes referred to as the “Tecla.” This engine featured a single overhead camshaft and three valves per cylinder, delivering around 60 to 75 horsepower depending on configuration. The result was smooth, progressive power delivery and a notable top speed of approximately 80 mph—impressive for a touring car of its era. A supercharged version, known as the Type 38A, was also available, offering enhanced performance for those who desired more excitement behind the wheel.
Mechanically, the car was robust and advanced. It featured a four-speed gearbox, effective drum brakes, and Bugatti’s signature cast aluminum wheels with integrated brake drums, which helped reduce unsprung weight and improve overall ride quality. The chassis was well-balanced and offered confident handling, making it a capable performer on the open road and mountain passes alike.
The roadster body was typically open with two doors, seating for two or sometimes four occupants, and coachwork crafted either in-house by Bugatti or by renowned coachbuilders. Long flowing fenders, a tapered tail, and the iconic horseshoe radiator defined its silhouette, giving the car a sporty yet refined appearance. Interiors were simple but well-appointed, with finely stitched leather seats and elegant gauges set into a wooden dash.
The Bugatti Type 38 Roadster appealed to a clientele that appreciated a blend of prestige, comfort, and sporting pedigree. It was ideal for grand touring in the golden age of motoring, offering drivers the cachet of a Bugatti badge along with practical usability for everyday road use. Today, the Type 38 Roadster remains a prized collectible, admired for its balance of pre-war sophistication, understated elegance, and reliable engineering.