Description
The Bugatti Coupé Type 57 SC is one of the most celebrated and revered creations from the golden era of motoring. Developed in the late 1930s, the “SC” designation represents Surbaissé (lowered chassis) and Compresseur (supercharged engine), a combination that transformed the refined Type 57 into a true high-performance machine. The coupé body style offered the perfect balance of aerodynamic elegance and structural rigidity, making it ideal for long-distance touring at speed.
Under the hood, the car featured a supercharged 3.3-liter straight-eight engine capable of producing around 200 horsepower. Paired with a lightweight body and lowered suspension geometry, the 57 SC delivered a top speed in excess of 120 mph—an astonishing figure at the time. The lowered chassis design, with the rear axle passing through the frame, provided improved handling characteristics and a notably lower ride height, giving the car a sleek, aggressive stance.
The coupé body was available from several renowned coachbuilders, as well as Bugatti’s own workshop. Each example displayed slightly different styling cues, but common traits included a long, tapering hood, gracefully arching fenders, and a compact, streamlined cabin. Many were finished in two-tone paint schemes that emphasized the car’s curves and craftsmanship, with delicate chrome accents adding a sense of understated luxury.
Inside, the Type 57 SC Coupé was a blend of function and refinement. The cockpit was trimmed in fine leather and wood, with a well-organized dash and large, readable gauges. The seating was typically for two, offering both support and comfort for spirited driving or elegant cruising. Everything about the interior reflected Bugatti’s philosophy of combining artistry with engineering precision.
Today, the Bugatti Coupé Type 57 SC is considered one of the most collectible and admired vehicles in automotive history. With only a limited number ever produced, each car is a unique statement of style, speed, and craftsmanship. Its legacy endures not just for its performance, but as a timeless example of Jean Bugatti’s vision brought to life on the road.