Description

The Bugatti Type 40 Galle Roadster was a beautifully styled and distinctive version of the Type 40, featuring bespoke coachwork by the French carrosserie Galle. This roadster variant exemplified the spirit of individualized automotive craftsmanship that defined the late 1920s, combining Bugatti’s finely engineered mechanicals with Galle’s flair for elegant and flowing body design.

Built upon the standard Type 40 platform, the Galle Roadster retained the 1.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine with a single overhead camshaft and three valves per cylinder. This compact and reliable engine produced around 45 horsepower, enabling brisk performance for a car of its class. With a four-speed manual gearbox, the power delivery was smooth and engaging, making the car enjoyable to drive on both urban roads and open country stretches. Although not a competition model, the light chassis and efficient powertrain gave the car a lively and responsive character.

The mechanical underpinnings were typical of Bugatti’s smaller touring cars, with a ladder-type frame, semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel drum brakes. These elements worked together to provide a composed ride and confident handling. The cast alloy wheels, integrating the brake drums—a signature Bugatti feature—contributed to improved cooling and reduced unsprung weight, enhancing both performance and durability.

What set the Galle Roadster apart was its coachwork. The body featured graceful, sweeping lines, a low-slung profile, and carefully sculpted fenders that gave the car a dynamic, sporty look even at rest. The open two-seater layout emphasized its roadster nature, while the elegant detailing—such as polished trim, a finely curved tail, and the distinct Bugatti horseshoe grille—added to its sense of sophistication. The coachbuilder’s touch was evident in the balanced proportions and visual harmony of the car, which gave it a unique character among the various Type 40 variants.

Inside, the Galle Roadster was appointed with minimal but tasteful luxury. Leather bucket seats, a simple wooden dash, and essential instrumentation kept the interior focused on the driving experience, while still offering a degree of refinement in line with Bugatti’s reputation.

Today, the Bugatti Type 40 Galle Roadster is considered a rare and desirable collector’s piece. Its unique blend of mechanical precision and bespoke artistry captures the essence of vintage motoring at a time when cars were both machines and masterpieces.