Description
The Bugatti Type 40 Roadster was introduced in the late 1920s as a more accessible and road-focused model, designed to bring the prestige and performance of the Bugatti name to a broader group of enthusiasts. While not intended for racing, the Type 40 maintained the marque’s core values of mechanical excellence, elegant styling, and a lively driving character. It quickly became a favorite among those seeking a stylish and responsive car for everyday motoring.
At the heart of the Type 40 was a 1.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine derived from the Bugatti Type 37’s powerplant. Featuring a single overhead camshaft and three valves per cylinder, the engine produced approximately 45 horsepower. While modest in output compared to Bugatti’s Grand Prix machines, it delivered smooth and efficient performance that was ideal for touring and spirited road use. A four-speed manual gearbox allowed for precise gear changes, and the car’s light weight contributed to its nimble handling and respectable top speed for the era—around 70 mph.
The Type 40 Roadster shared its chassis design with earlier Bugatti models, utilizing a sturdy yet lightweight ladder-frame construction. Suspension was by semi-elliptic leaf springs, and braking was provided by drum brakes on all four wheels. The car’s handling was confident and predictable, providing a more comfortable and refined experience than Bugatti’s purebred racers while still offering driver engagement on winding roads.
The roadster body style brought an added touch of flair and freedom, featuring an open-top two-seat configuration with flowing fenders, a gently sloping tail, and the unmistakable Bugatti horseshoe grille. Interiors were simple but well-crafted, often trimmed in leather with wooden dashboards and minimal yet elegant instrumentation. Each car could be fitted with coachbuilt bodies, resulting in a range of individual styles and finishes.
The Bugatti Type 40 Roadster offered an excellent blend of usability and sophistication, making it popular among well-heeled motorists of the late 1920s who wanted Bugatti engineering in a more manageable and practical form. Today, it stands as a charming example of pre-war motoring elegance and remains a cherished part of Bugatti’s storied legacy.