1928 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix: A Racing Marvel of the Past
The Golden Era of Racing
The 1920s was a golden era for motor racing, with manufacturers like Bugatti, Alfa Romeo, and Mercedes-Benz producing some of the most iconic and powerful racing cars of all time. One of the most revered among them is the 1928 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix, a car that embodied the spirit of racing and innovation.
Design and Engineering
The Bugatti Type 35C was designed by Ettore Bugatti, a genius engineer and founder of the legendary French marque. This Grand Prix car was built on a short-wheelbase chassis, with a lightweight aluminum body and a powerful 2.0-liter, inline-eight engine producing 130 horsepower. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual gearbox, making it a formidable competitor on the track.
The Type 35C featured an innovative suspension system, with quarter-elliptical leaf springs in the front and rear, providing exceptional handling and stability at high speeds. The car's braking system consisted of mechanical drum brakes on each wheel, which were considered advanced for the time.
Racing Heritage
The Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix had an impressive racing career, with notable wins at the 1928 French Grand Prix, the 1929 Belgian Grand Prix, and the 1930 Monaco Grand Prix. Some of the most skilled drivers of the era, including Louis Chiron, Pierre Veyron, and Guy Bouriat, piloted the Type 35C to victory.
The car's racing pedigree was further solidified by its participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it finished second in 1928 and fourth in 1929. These achievements cemented the Type 35C's status as one of the most successful racing cars of the late 1920s.
Restoration and Legacy
Today, only a handful of original Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix cars remain, with many preserved in museums and private collections. Those that have been restored to their former glory are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, often fetching millions of dollars at auctions.
The Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix's impact on automotive design and engineering continues to inspire modern-day manufacturers. Its influence can be seen in the sleek lines, precision engineering, and attention to detail of contemporary sports cars.
Specifications
- Engine: 2.0-liter, inline-eight
- Power: 130 horsepower
- Transmission: Four-speed manual
- Chassis: Short-wheelbase, lightweight aluminum body
- Suspension: Quarter-elliptical leaf springs (front and rear)
- Brakes: Mechanical drum brakes (all wheels)
- Top Speed: Over 120 mph (193 km/h)
The 1928 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Ettore Bugatti and his team. This beautiful car's racing heritage, innovative design, and enduring legacy make it a true legend of the automotive world.
