Description

The Bugatti Type 57 SC Cabriolet Van Vooren is a rare and elegant expression of Bugatti’s most potent road-going chassis, clothed in sophisticated bodywork by the esteemed Parisian coachbuilder Van Vooren. Built in the late 1930s, this model combined high-performance engineering with a gracefully designed cabriolet form, intended for discerning clients who wanted open-air motoring without compromising on luxury or speed.

At its core, the car featured the supercharged 3.3-liter straight-eight engine, delivering approximately 200 horsepower. The “SC” in its name stands for Surbaissé and Compresseur, referring to the lowered chassis and the addition of a Roots-type supercharger. This combination made the 57 SC one of the fastest cars of its era, capable of speeds exceeding 120 mph—a remarkable achievement for a luxury grand tourer at the time.

Van Vooren’s coachwork on the 57 SC Cabriolet was both refined and subtly sporty. The long, flowing fenders, gently raked windshield, and balanced proportions created an elegant silhouette that harmonized perfectly with the car’s mechanical prowess. The soft top folded neatly behind the seats, preserving the car’s graceful lines whether open or closed. Details such as chromed trim, delicate door handles, and finely contoured panels reflected Van Vooren’s exceptional craftsmanship.

Inside, the cabriolet offered a luxurious environment. The interior was trimmed in high-grade leather, with carefully finished wood accents and a full suite of polished gauges and switchgear. Seating was comfortable and supportive, designed for long-distance touring with a touch of French flair. The overall atmosphere was one of exclusivity and bespoke refinement.

Today, the Bugatti Type 57 SC Cabriolet Van Vooren stands as a shining example of pre-war automotive artistry. Its rarity, performance, and superb styling make it highly sought-after by collectors. As one of the very few open-top SC models bodied by Van Vooren, it represents a perfect marriage of mechanical brilliance and coachbuilt elegance from one of the greatest eras in automotive history.