While everyone may be captivated by Bugatti’s newer models such as the Chiron, the Divo & more, it’s really the 30’s models that capture my attention. Today we are taking a look at the extremely rare 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante Coupé, chassis no. 57551. Production of the Type 57 began in 1934 and continued up until 1940 with just over 40 Type 57S Chassis built, and only 17 of those being Atalante Coupés like this car. There were essentially three basic variants of the Type 57. The original type 57, Type 57T, and the Type 57S/SC. Much like most Type 57S models, chassis 57551 was eventually elevated to ‘SC’ specifications after the car had a factory original supercharger installed. The car itself is finished in a two-tone paint scheme consisting of ‘Patrol Cream’ & ‘Lemon Oxide’. Only two Type 57SC cars came original from the factory with superchargers, but as we mentioned, this car had the ‘SC’ specification completed later on in it’s life. The ‘S’ in ‘SC’ stands for Surbaissé (lowered) and the ‘C’ stands for Compresseur (a supercharger introduced by Bugatti as a result for clients desire for increased power). Only 17 special ‘Atalante’ Type 57 chassis were built. The term ‘Atalante’ derives from a heroine of Greek mythology, Atalanta. Overall, the Type 57 was one of Bugatti’s most iconic models ever produced, with the Atalante being exceptionally rare. Even more rare with the optional ‘SC’ specification. Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante coupé number 57551 is also the first of only four total of it’s kind built in the summer of 1937 with streamlined headlights.
How many made? Overall just around 40-43 total Type 57S chassis were built, with only 2 of those being original Type 57SC with factory superchargers from new, and only 17 being ‘Atalante’ cars like this one. 57551 is the 1st of only 4 that were built in the summer of 1937 with streamlined headlights
Engine: 200hp, 3,257cc supercharged DOHC inline 8-cylinder dry-sump engine.
Debut: This specific Type 57SC was completed and finished on July 23rd of 1937.
Top Speed: 130.5mph
0-60mph: 10.0 seconds
Photo credit: @rmsothebys
Research: @rarecarsonly