Description

The Bugatti Type 49, produced between 1930 and 1934, was the final touring model designed under the direct supervision of Ettore Bugatti. Combining mechanical sophistication with artistic coachwork, the Type 49 marked the culmination of Bugatti’s grand touring philosophy. Its 3.3-liter inline-eight engine featured a single overhead camshaft and a sophisticated three-valve-per-cylinder design, delivering refined performance and reliability.

What truly sets this particular Type 49 apart is its coachwork by the renowned Czechoslovakian firm Uhlík. Based in Prague, Uhlík was known for crafting bespoke bodies that blended European elegance with local craftsmanship. The result was a unique interpretation of the Bugatti aesthetic—more expressive in form, often with distinctive Art Deco influences and elaborate detailing.

The Uhlík-bodied Type 49s are rare and celebrated for their individuality. They typically feature flowing lines, sculpted fenders, and luxurious interiors trimmed with exotic woods and fine leather. These cars offered a perfect marriage between the technical brilliance of Bugatti and the bespoke artistry of Eastern European design.

Today, surviving examples are among the most desirable of the Type 49 lineage. They serve not only as a testament to Bugatti’s engineering prowess but also as cultural artifacts representing the height of interwar coachbuilding across Europe.