Description

The Bugatti Type 55 Coupé is a refined and elegant evolution of one of Bugatti’s most performance-oriented road cars of the early 1930s. Introduced alongside the roadster variant in 1931, the coupé offered a more enclosed and formal expression of the Type 55’s sporting character, combining Grand Prix-derived engineering with a grand touring silhouette.

Like its open-top sibling, the Type 55 Coupé was powered by a supercharged 2.3-liter straight-eight engine with twin overhead camshafts, borrowed and slightly detuned from the Type 51 Grand Prix car. It produced approximately 130 horsepower, a considerable figure for the time, allowing the car to reach speeds in excess of 170 km/h. The engine’s responsiveness, combined with the car’s lightweight chassis and four-speed gearbox, made it one of the most capable touring cars of its era.

The coupé bodywork was crafted by select coachbuilders, including Bugatti’s own workshop, and occasionally by external artisans depending on customer specifications. These bodies featured fixed roofs, often with sweeping lines, narrow cabins, and carefully shaped fenders that retained the graceful, athletic profile of the Type 55. The design was both practical and stylish, offering better protection from the elements while preserving the car’s unmistakable Bugatti flair.

Inside, the cabin of the Type 55 Coupé was more enclosed and tailored for comfort. Leather upholstery, polished dials, and clean dashboard arrangements were complemented by subtle wood or metal accents. Despite its luxury, the interior remained focused on driving—every control was designed for ease of use during spirited motoring.

Today, the Bugatti Type 55 Coupé is a rare and desirable classic, valued for its blend of technical sophistication and stylistic grace. As only a few coupé-bodied examples were built, each one represents a unique combination of Bugatti engineering and bespoke design, making it a centerpiece in any significant vintage car collection.