Description
The Bugatti Type 38 Torpedo was a luxurious and sporty touring car produced in the mid-1920s, offering a balance between refined long-distance comfort and the spirited performance expected from the Bugatti marque. Built during a time when motoring was still a blend of engineering artistry and mechanical innovation, the Type 38 Torpedo exemplified the elegance of pre-war design with the driving pleasure of a high-quality grand tourer.
At its core, the Type 38 was powered by a 2.0-litre straight-eight engine, derived from the Type 35A “Tecla.” This engine featured a single overhead camshaft and three valves per cylinder—two for intake and one for exhaust—delivering between 60 and 75 horsepower, depending on specification. The power was channeled through a four-speed manual gearbox and provided ample performance for the era, with smooth power delivery and a top speed near 80 mph. For those who sought more performance, Bugatti also offered the supercharged Type 38A variant.
The chassis was strong yet relatively lightweight, benefitting from Bugatti’s advanced engineering solutions such as the use of alloy wheels with integrated brake drums—a hallmark of the brand. The handling was considered quite capable for a touring car, offering stability and confidence at speed while remaining comfortable enough for extended drives across Europe’s varied terrain.
The Torpedo body style gave the Type 38 a distinctive and elegant silhouette. Typically an open four-seater with a gently rounded tail and sweeping fenders, it provided spacious seating and good visibility. The design often included a folding windscreen, minimal weather protection, and luxurious interior details such as leather upholstery and a wood-trimmed dashboard. Some cars were bodied by Bugatti themselves, while others featured coachwork by notable builders of the time, each adding unique touches to the car’s appearance.
The Bugatti 38 Torpedo was not aimed at the racing circuit but rather at discerning drivers who wanted a stylish, high-performance car for everyday use and long-distance travel. It offered a refined motoring experience, combining Bugatti’s race-bred engineering with the comfort and grace expected from a top-tier touring car of the 1920s.
Today, the Type 38 Torpedo is regarded as a beautifully balanced example of pre-war automotive design, appreciated for its smooth performance, elegant looks, and the prestige that comes with the Bugatti name. Its rarity and period charm make it a treasured piece in the collections of vintage car enthusiasts.