Description
The Bugatti Type 57 C Stelvio is an elegant open-top touring car that combines the high-performance engineering of the supercharged Type 57 with the luxurious freedom of a cabriolet body. Named after the famed Stelvio Pass in the Italian Alps, this model embodied the spirit of grand touring, offering both excitement and refinement for drivers and passengers alike.
At its core, the Stelvio featured the supercharged 3.3-liter straight-eight engine, producing approximately 160 horsepower. The “C” in its name denoted “compresseur,” referring to the Roots-type supercharger that elevated the car’s performance to exceptional levels. Mated to a four-speed manual transmission, the engine delivered a smooth surge of power, making the Stelvio as capable on mountain roads as it was cruising through city boulevards.
The Stelvio body was most famously crafted by Gangloff, the Swiss coachbuilder known for their tasteful and well-balanced designs. The cabriolet’s proportions were graceful, with long sweeping fenders, a low windshield, and a neatly integrated folding soft top. When the top was down, the Stelvio took on a sporting, sophisticated look that perfectly suited its grand touring mission.
Inside, the Stelvio offered a comfortable and luxurious cabin. Fine leather upholstery, polished wood, and detailed instrumentation reflected Bugatti’s commitment to quality and elegance. The interior was designed to be both stylish and practical, accommodating two or four passengers depending on configuration, with a focus on comfort during long-distance travel.
Today, the Bugatti Type 57 C Stelvio is considered one of the most desirable cabriolets of the pre-war era. Its blend of supercharged performance, timeless design, and exceptional craftsmanship makes it a standout in any collection. It remains a celebrated example of how Bugatti mastered the art of marrying technical innovation with aesthetic beauty.