Description
The Bugatti Type 43 Grand Sport Torpedo “Prima Donna” is a particularly celebrated and unique example of the Grand Sport line, known not only for its technical prowess but also for its striking coachwork and evocative nickname. The “Prima Donna” designation is an affectionate title given to this individual car, highlighting its distinctive personality and flamboyant appearance among the Bugatti 43s.
Like other Type 43 Grand Sports, this model was powered by a 2.3-litre supercharged inline eight-cylinder engine derived directly from the Type 35B Grand Prix car. With an output of around 120 horsepower, it delivered outstanding performance for its time. The supercharger provided strong acceleration and smooth power delivery, enabling a top speed of nearly 180 km/h (112 mph)—a figure almost unheard of for road cars of the late 1920s.
The chassis was lightweight and race-bred, featuring a rigid ladder frame, semi-elliptical leaf springs, and solid axles. Braking came from large mechanical drums on all four wheels, offering dependable deceleration to match its speed. Handling was direct and agile, giving the car excellent control on both winding country roads and faster stretches.
What sets the “Prima Donna” apart is its bespoke torpedo coachwork, believed to have been executed by one of the more artistic French coachbuilders of the time. The body displays elegant, sweeping lines, a low-slung profile, and distinctive two-tone paint that accentuates its curves. Cycle wings, a leather strap over the long bonnet, and polished aluminum accents give the car an athletic but refined presence. Its nickname hints at a theatrical flair—this car demands attention both at rest and in motion.
Inside, the “Prima Donna” features a classic, driver-focused layout with period-correct instruments, a large wood-rimmed steering wheel, and finely tailored leather seats. The cabin is minimal yet exudes craftsmanship, with just enough elegance to complement the powerful mechanicals and flowing exterior.
Today, the Bugatti Type 43 Grand Sport Torpedo “Prima Donna” is revered not only for its performance and historical importance but also for its individuality. It embodies the spirit of early sports motoring with a touch of showmanship, making it one of the most memorable and charismatic examples of the Type 43 lineage.