One of only 42 Bugatti Type 57S ever produced is going to auction at Bonhams Legends of the Road sale. The auction is taking place at Bonhams saleroom, New Bond Street on the 19 February 2021.
The Type 57 must be one of the most valuable pre-war cars in existence. This example has been off the road for the last 50 years and for the first time will be available at auction. Since 1969, the Bugatti has remained in a North Staffordshire workshop. It is in exceptionally original condition. Having been restored mechanically by the late owner, the respected engineer and Bugatti enthusiast Bill Turnbull. It does though require some minor reassembly.
At the request of the owner, the executors of his estate are offering the rare car with no reserve. However, the car does carry an estimate of £5,000,000 – 7,000,000.
The Bugatti was originally ordered new by Robert Ropner, a family member of the Ropner Shipping Line. The order was placed at renowned London dealership Jack Barclay. Ropner specified the Grand Routier body, built by coachbuilders Corsica of London. This body covers the Type 57 chassis and running gear, with the powerful 3.3 litre engine. The Type 57S was the fastest road car of its day. Issued with the registration of DUL 351 led to the car being nicknamed Dulcie.
Bugatti were legendary with their racetrack success, with their sports cars being regarded as race cars for the road. Many leading racing drivers used them as road transport. So, the second owner, Rodney Clarke, seems fitting as he founded the British Connaught Grand Prix racing team.
Importantly this Bugatti’s chassis has been identified as one of only three special lightweight frames. Produced for the record breaking 1936 season Type 57G Tank streamlined grand Prix racer.
After Mr Turnbull purchased the car in 1969, he used it for a short period of time before stripping it down in his workshop. He planned was to carry out a full restoration and was nearly complete before his death.
