Description

The Bugatti Type 46 Coupé is a refined expression of grand touring elegance, combining the marque’s engineering excellence with a more intimate and streamlined body style. Introduced in 1929, the Type 46 was Bugatti’s answer to the demand for a luxurious, powerful touring car—smaller and more accessible than the immense Type 41 Royale, yet still exuding an air of aristocratic poise.

Under its long bonnet, the Type 46 housed a 5.4-litre inline eight-cylinder engine, producing around 140 horsepower. This powerplant delivered smooth, effortless performance suited for relaxed high-speed cruising. The engine was paired with a three-speed gearbox integrated with the rear axle, a typical Bugatti innovation that reduced drivetrain vibration and noise, enhancing the sense of refinement on the move.

The Coupé body style brought a sleeker, more personal touch to the Type 46 chassis. Often crafted by renowned coachbuilders or occasionally by Bugatti themselves, these bodies featured sweeping fenders, a gracefully sloped roofline, and an enclosed two-door configuration. The design emphasized proportion and detail, with distinctive elements such as flared running boards, finely shaped glasswork, and polished brightwork subtly enhancing the car’s presence.

Inside, the Coupé was a showcase of early 1930s luxury. Leather upholstery, wooden dashboards, and a clear, symmetrical arrangement of gauges provided both elegance and functionality. Seating was typically for two or occasionally four, depending on the specific layout chosen by the coachbuilder, and interior craftsmanship was held to the highest standard.

Though fewer Coupé versions were produced compared to limousines or open tourers, the Type 46 Coupé remains highly prized today for its combination of style, engineering, and rarity. It offers a more sporting silhouette while retaining all the dignified charm and smooth performance that define Bugatti’s grand touring heritage.