Description
The Bugatti Type 40 Grand Sport was a refined yet spirited variation of the Type 40 line, created for drivers who wanted the thrill of a sporty ride wrapped in the elegance of classic pre-war motoring. Produced in the late 1920s, it exemplified Bugatti’s commitment to combining lightness, precision engineering, and aesthetic grace, even in models not aimed strictly at the racetrack.
Under the bonnet, the Grand Sport shared its powerplant with the standard Type 40—a 1.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine equipped with a single overhead camshaft and three valves per cylinder. It delivered around 45 horsepower, which, while modest compared to Bugatti’s competition cars, provided lively performance in the lightweight chassis. The four-speed manual gearbox ensured smooth power delivery and a responsive driving experience. With a top speed close to 70 mph, the Grand Sport was perfectly suited to fast touring and spirited weekend motoring.
The chassis retained the proven Bugatti layout, with semi-elliptic leaf springs and drum brakes on all four corners, offering a balance of comfort and agility. Bugatti’s signature cast alloy wheels, which integrated brake drums to reduce unsprung weight, contributed to precise handling and braking. The car’s compact size and light weight made it especially enjoyable on twisty roads and in urban settings.
Visually, the Grand Sport was distinguished by its sleek and flowing bodywork. Typically configured as a two-seater roadster or open tourer, it featured long fenders, a low-cut body, and a gently tapering tail. Many examples were fitted with coachbuilt bodies that emphasized elegance and sportiness in equal measure. The minimalist windscreen and exposed spare wheels added to its purposeful appearance, giving it a subtle nod to Bugatti’s racing heritage.
Inside, the cabin was simple but finely crafted, with leather bucket seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a pared-down dashboard. It offered just enough comfort for touring while keeping the focus squarely on the driving experience.
The Bugatti Type 40 Grand Sport struck a harmonious balance between everyday usability and classic motoring excitement. Today, it remains a sought-after model among collectors for its beautiful proportions, mechanical purity, and its unique position as a Bugatti that offered accessible luxury without sacrificing character or charm.