1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe Chassis No. 57775: A Masterpiece of Automotive History

The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe, Chassis No. 57775, is a jewel of automotive history that captures the essence of luxury, performance, and artisanal craftsmanship. This particular vehicle, built during a time when the world was on the brink of war, embodies the pinnacle of Bugatti’s engineering and design prowess. With only a few examples of the Type 57C ever produced, Chassis No. 57775 stands out as an incredibly rare and highly sought-after collector’s car.

In this article, we will delve deep into the history, design, and significance of the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe Chassis No. 57775. We’ll explore what makes this car such a valuable piece of automotive heritage, while providing insights and analysis that go beyond what is already available online. From its unique engineering to its luxurious aesthetic appeal, this car is much more than just a collector’s item—it’s a symbol of an era and an example of the Bugatti family’s unmatched ability to blend art with mechanics.

A Brief History of the Bugatti Type 57C

The Bugatti Type 57 series, introduced in 1934, was designed by Jean Bugatti, the son of the company’s founder, Ettore Bugatti. This series represented a shift in the company’s direction, focusing more on producing grand touring cars with sophisticated design and high-performance mechanics rather than just racing cars.

The Type 57C, produced between 1937 and 1940, was a supercharged version of the original Type 57. The “C” in the model name stands for “compresseur,” the French term for supercharger. This addition gave the car a significant power boost, allowing it to reach impressive speeds for its time.

By 1939, Bugatti was producing only a limited number of these cars, making each example a rare and valuable commodity. The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe Chassis No. 57775 is a particularly noteworthy model due to its unique Gangloff coachwork and the historical context in which it was produced.

The Significance of Chassis No. 57775

Chassis No. 57775 holds a special place in Bugatti’s storied history. The car was built with the stunning Gangloff Atlante Coupe body, a bespoke design created by Swiss coachbuilder Gangloff. The Atlante Coupe is one of the most revered body styles for the Type 57C, known for its flowing lines, elegant proportions, and luxurious appointments.

What makes Chassis No. 57775 especially remarkable is its rarity. Only a small number of Type 57Cs were produced with Gangloff Atlante Coupe bodies, and this particular chassis is one of the most well-preserved examples. The car’s history, originality, and provenance make it a standout in the world of classic Bugatti automobiles.

Why Chassis No. 57775 is so Valuable:

1. Limited Production: With fewer than 700 Type 57 models built between 1934 and 1940, and only a fraction of those being Type 57Cs, Chassis No. 57775 is part of an extremely exclusive group.
2. Historical Significance: Produced just before the outbreak of World War II, this car represents the end of an era for Bugatti, as the company’s production was severely impacted by the war.
3. Coachwork by Gangloff: The Gangloff coachwork is not only beautiful but also incredibly rare, further enhancing the car’s desirability among collectors.
4. Supercharged Engine: The Type 57C’s supercharged engine was state-of-the-art for its time, offering exceptional performance in a luxury grand touring car.

Design and Aesthetics: The Gangloff Atlante Coupe Body

The Gangloff Atlante Coupe body that graces Chassis No. 57775 is a perfect example of Art Deco-inspired automotive design. Gangloff, a Swiss coachbuilder with a reputation for creating elegant and finely detailed bodies, produced some of the most beautiful custom work on Bugatti chassis.

Key Design Features of the Gangloff Atlante Coupe:

• Streamlined Profile: The flowing, aerodynamic lines of the Atlante Coupe give the car an almost sculptural presence. Every curve is meticulously crafted to create a sense of speed and movement, even when the car is standing still.
• Elegant Proportions: The long hood, sweeping fenders, and compact cabin create a balanced and harmonious silhouette. The design reflects the principles of proportion and balance, key elements of Art Deco aesthetics.
• Luxurious Interior: Inside, the car offers a sumptuous experience, with high-quality materials, hand-stitched leather upholstery, and intricate detailing. The dashboard and instruments are works of art in themselves, showcasing the precision and elegance for which Bugatti was known.
• Unique Details: The Gangloff coachbuilders added special touches to the Atlante Coupe body, including unique door handles, trim details, and custom paint finishes that set each car apart.

The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe Chassis No. 57775 exemplifies this level of craftsmanship, making it not only a technical marvel but also an artistic one.

Engineering Excellence: The Supercharged 57C Engine

The heart of the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe Chassis No. 57775 is its supercharged engine. Bugatti was known for its engineering innovation, and the Type 57C was no exception. The “C” stands for “compresseur”, indicating the addition of a Roots-type supercharger to the 3.3-liter inline-8 engine.

Performance Specifications:

• Engine: 3.3-liter inline-8, supercharged
• Power Output: Approximately 160 horsepower
• Top Speed: Around 120 mph (193 km/h)
• Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox

For its time, the Type 57C was an exceptionally fast and powerful car. The addition of the supercharger improved both the car’s acceleration and top speed, making it a true high-performance luxury vehicle. It was designed not only for comfort but also for spirited driving on the open road.

The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe Chassis No. 57775 benefits from this advanced engineering, and its supercharged engine remains one of the car’s most defining features. Even today, driving a Type 57C is a thrilling experience, thanks to the smooth power delivery and the distinctive sound of the supercharger whine.

The Legacy of Chassis No. 57775

As one of the finest examples of the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe, Chassis No. 57775 has garnered significant attention from collectors and automotive historians. Its combination of rarity, design, and performance makes it one of the most coveted Bugatti models in existence.

This car has been featured at numerous prestigious events, including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where it has consistently wowed audiences with its beauty and historical significance. Its provenance has been meticulously documented, and it remains in remarkable condition, a testament to the quality of Bugatti’s craftsmanship and the care of its subsequent owners.

Why Collectors Covet Chassis No. 57775:

1. Provenance: The car’s history is well-documented, with a clear chain of ownership and a record of careful preservation.
2. Condition: Many Type 57Cs have been restored, but Chassis No. 57775 retains much of its originality, which is highly valued by collectors.
3. Rarity: With only a few Gangloff Atlante Coupes ever produced, this car represents a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of automotive history.
4. Aesthetic and Performance: The combination of stunning design and high-performance engineering makes this car a true masterpiece.

FAQs

1. What makes the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe Chassis No. 57775 so special?

The car is a rare and highly coveted example of Bugatti’s Type 57C series, featuring bespoke Gangloff coachwork and a supercharged engine. Its rarity, historical significance, and stunning design make it a standout among classic cars.

2. How fast is the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe?

The Type 57C, with its supercharged 3.3-liter inline-8 engine, could reach speeds of up to 120 mph, which was incredibly fast for a luxury grand touring car in 1939.

3. What is the significance of the coachbuilder Gangloff?

Gangloff was a Swiss coachbuilder known for producing elegant, custom bodies for high-end automobiles like Bugatti. The Gangloff Atlante Coupe body on Chassis No. 57775 is a fine example of their craftsmanship, known for its streamlined and luxurious design.

4. How many Bugatti Type 57Cs were built?

Fewer than 100 Bugatti Type 57Cs were built between 1937 and 1940, and only a small number of those were equipped with the Gangloff Atlante Coupe body, making Chassis No. 57775 exceptionally rare.

5. Why is the Type 57C considered one of Bugatti’s greatest achievements?

The Type 57C represents the pinnacle of Bugatti’s engineering and design, combining high performance with luxurious craftsmanship. Its supercharged engine, advanced suspension, and elegant bodywork make it one of the most iconic Bugatti models.

Conclusion

The 1939 Bugatti Type 57C Gangloff Atlante Coupe Chassis No. 57775 is more than just a car—it’s a piece of automotive history. With its combination of rarity, beauty, and performance, it stands as a testament to the genius of the Bugatti family and the era in which it was created. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, this car represents the pinnacle of classic automotive design and engineering, making it one of the most prized possessions in the world of vintage automobiles.