Description

The Bugatti Type 57 C Galibier was the supercharged version of Bugatti’s luxurious four-door saloon, named after the famed Alpine mountain pass, Col du Galibier. It was designed for refined, high-speed touring and represented a perfect blend of engineering sophistication and elegant design. With the addition of a supercharger, this model delivered both comfort and significantly enhanced performance.

The heart of the Type 57 C Galibier was the 3.3-liter inline eight-cylinder engine, fitted with a Roots-type supercharger. This setup generated approximately 160 horsepower, offering brisk acceleration and a top speed exceeding many contemporary sports cars. The “C” designation, standing for “compresseur,” indicated the car’s elevated capabilities, which made it especially appealing to clients seeking power along with everyday usability.

Visually, the Galibier featured a stately yet graceful saloon body. Its design, often crafted by Bugatti’s own coachworks or select French ateliers, included flowing fenders, an upright but sleek grille, and a smooth roofline that extended over four doors. It combined the dignity of a formal limousine with the dynamic lines expected of a Bugatti, setting it apart from other sedans of the period.

The interior continued the theme of quiet sophistication. Passengers were treated to plush leather seating, polished wood accents, and detailed metal trim. The cabin offered generous space for four occupants, with excellent insulation and refinement, making it an ideal choice for long journeys in supreme comfort.

Today, the Bugatti Type 57 C Galibier is a rare and cherished example of pre-war automotive luxury. Its supercharged performance, combined with the elegance of a four-door saloon, makes it a unique piece in the Bugatti legacy. It stands as a testament to the marque’s ability to engineer not just fast cars, but beautifully tailored ones that deliver grace and power in equal measure.