Description

The Bugatti Type 57 Roadster is a striking and open-air expression of the famed Type 57 chassis, blending the marque’s performance legacy with the freedom and flair of top-down motoring. Developed during the mid-1930s, the Roadster variant appealed to clients who desired a more dynamic and personal driving experience without compromising on luxury or craftsmanship.

Powered by the same 3.3-liter straight-eight engine that underpinned the entire Type 57 lineup, the Roadster delivered around 135 horsepower, offering refined yet spirited performance. Its four-speed manual gearbox enabled smooth gear changes, and the car’s well-engineered suspension and chassis made it equally comfortable on winding country roads and fast, open highways.

The Roadster’s styling was often left to the creativity of renowned coachbuilders such as Gangloff, Graber, or Corsica. These artisans crafted unique and flowing bodywork, typically with sweeping fenders, a long bonnet, and a gracefully tapered rear. With no fixed roof, the car featured a foldable soft top and a minimalist, sporty cockpit—emphasizing the car’s open-air character and enhancing its lightweight aesthetic.

Inside, the cabin was tailored with a blend of luxury and simplicity. Leather-clad bucket seats, a polished dashboard, and finely finished details gave the interior a refined atmosphere while keeping the driver at the center of the experience. The open-top layout added to the car’s emotional appeal, offering an immersive connection with the road and surroundings.

Today, the Bugatti Type 57 Roadster is among the most desirable variants of the Type 57 series. Each example, shaped by the hands of expert coachbuilders and built on Bugatti’s exceptional mechanical foundation, is a celebration of pre-war artistry and performance. These roadsters remain timeless icons, embodying the spirit of elegance, freedom, and pure driving enjoyment.