Description

The Bugatti Type 46 Limousine was introduced in 1929 as part of Ettore Bugatti’s vision to offer a luxurious and refined grand touring car, distinct from the marque’s racing machines. Often referred to as the “small Royale,” the Type 46 shared some design philosophies with the monumental Type 41 Royale but was built on a smaller scale, making it more practical and accessible to a broader clientele seeking prestige and comfort.

Powered by a 5.4-litre inline eight-cylinder engine, the Type 46 delivered smooth, effortless performance suited for long-distance motoring. The engine was paired with a three-speed gearbox integrated with the rear axle—a feature typical of Bugatti’s engineering approach at the time. With approximately 140 horsepower, the car was not built for outright speed but for dignified, relaxed cruising with ample torque and power in reserve.

The chassis was solid and well-sprung, utilizing semi-elliptical leaf springs and mechanical drum brakes on all four wheels. The car’s proportions were generous, with a long wheelbase that provided ample space for luxurious, coachbuilt bodies. Bugatti sold the Type 46 as a rolling chassis, allowing customers to choose from a range of bespoke coachbuilders, including Gangloff, Weymann, and Kellner.

In limousine form, the Type 46 took on an especially stately and formal appearance. The body was typically tall and upright, with a spacious rear passenger compartment separated from the driver by a partition. Rich materials like polished wood, fine leather, and plush carpeting adorned the interior, while the exterior featured elegant, flowing lines, often accented with chrome details and large disc or wire wheels.

The Type 46 Limousine was aimed at a wealthy clientele who valued elegance and refinement. It was a car to be seen in, rather than one to be driven fast. While never produced in the same numbers as some competitors, it remains a highly regarded and collectible classic, representing a more opulent and formal side of the Bugatti legacy.