Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic history and design

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is a rare and highly sought-after car that is considered to be one of the most beautiful and iconic cars ever made. It was designed and built by the French car manufacturer Bugatti in the late 1930s and only four were ever made, with only three remaining today. The car is known for its sleek and elegant design, as well as its powerful engine and impressive performance.

History of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic was first introduced in 1936 as a replacement for the Type 49. It was designed by Jean Bugatti, the son of Bugatti founder Ettore Bugatti. The car was powered by a 3.3-liter straight-eight engine that produced 210 horsepower and could reach a top speed of 120 mph.

The car’s most distinctive feature was its body, which was made entirely of aluminum and featured a unique dorsal seam that ran from the hood to the rear of the car. The Atlantic was also known for its unique front grille, which was made of narrow chrome bars and resembled the gills of a fish.

Only four Type 57SC Atlantics were ever made, with two being built in 1936 and two more in 1938. The first two cars, known as the Atalante and the Aerolithe, were prototypes and featured a lightweight magnesium alloy body. The final two cars, known as the Atlantic, had a heavier aluminum body and were built for customers.

Design of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

The design of the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic was inspired by the Art Deco movement, which was popular in the 1930s. The car’s sleek and elegant lines were meant to evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication, while its chrome detailing and unique grille added a touch of modernity.

The car’s body was designed to be as aerodynamic as possible, with a low hood and sloping roofline that reduced wind resistance. The dorsal seam that ran down the center of the car’s body was not only a design element but also served to strengthen the body and reduce flexing.

The interior of the car was also designed with luxury in mind, with leather upholstery and a variety of amenities such as a radio and air conditioning. The car’s instrument panel was located in the center of the dashboard, with the speedometer and other gauges arranged in a circular pattern.

Specifications of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

Engine	3.3-liter straight-eight
Horsepower	210 hp
Top speed	120 mph
Transmission	4-speed manual
Weight	2,866 lbs
Length	4.4 meters
Width	1.7 meters
Height	1.2 meters

Pros of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

Iconic and highly sought-after design
Powerful and impressive performance
Limited production makes it a rare and valuable collector’s item
Sleek and elegant lines make it a timeless classic

Cons of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

Expensive to buy and maintain
Difficult to find parts and service for such a rare and old car
Not very practical for everyday use due to its limited seating capacity and lack of modern amenities
Relatively slow compared to modern cars

FAQ for Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

How many Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantics were made?

Only four Type 57SC Atlantics were ever made, with three remaining today.

What is the top speed of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic?

The top speed of the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is 120 mph.

What is the horsepower of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic?

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic has a 3.3-liter straight-eight engine that produces 210 horsepower.

How much does a Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic cost?

The cost of a Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic varies depending on its condition and rarity, but they typically sell for several million dollars.

Topics related to Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic history and design

1. The story behind the design of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic was designed by Jean Bugatti, the son of Bugatti founder Ettore Bugatti. This article explores the inspiration behind the car’s iconic design and the process of bringing it to life.

2. The making of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

From the prototype Atalante and Aerolithe to the final production of the Atlantic, this article delves into the technical aspects and manufacturing process of the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic.

3. The legacy of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is a rare and highly prized collector’s item that has become an icon of automotive design. This article explores the car’s enduring legacy and influence on modern car design.

4. The restoration of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

Restoring a Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is a massive undertaking that requires extensive knowledge and expertise. This article looks at the process of restoring one of these rare and valuable cars to its former glory.

5. The owners of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is owned by a select group of collectors and enthusiasts. This article profiles some of the most famous and notable owners of these rare and valuable cars.

6. The performance of Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

Despite its age, the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is still a formidable performer. This article looks at the car’s impressive performance capabilities and how it stacks up against modern supercars.

7. The mystery of the missing Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

Of the four Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantics that were made, only three remain today. This article explores the mysterious disappearance of the fourth car and the theories surrounding its whereabouts.

Conclusion

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is a rare and highly prized collector’s item that is considered to be one of the most beautiful and iconic cars ever made. Its sleek and elegant design, powerful engine, and impressive performance have made it a timeless classic that continues to captivate car enthusiasts around the world.