1930s Bugatti Royale: The Ultimate Luxury Car of the Past
The Bugatti Royale, a magnificent creation of the 1930s, is considered one of the most luxurious and exclusive cars ever built. This majestic vehicle was the brainchild of Ettore Bugatti, the founder of Bugatti, a French luxury car brand.
Design and Features
The Royale was a behemoth of a car, measuring over 21 feet in length and weighing a staggering 3 tons. Its massive size was complemented by a robust 12.7-liter, 8-cylinder engine that produced 300 horsepower. The car's body was designed by Ettore Bugatti himself, and it featured a unique blend of art deco and classic French styling.
The interior of the Royale was equally impressive, with lavish appointments that included a sumptuous leather interior, rich wood trim, and intricate metalwork. The car was equipped with every luxury feature imaginable, including a radio, a clock, and even a built-in umbrella holder.
The Story Behind the Royale
Ettore Bugatti was determined to create a car that would surpass all others in terms of luxury and exclusivity. He envisioned the Royale as a vehicle fit for royalty, and thus, it was named accordingly. The car was intended to be a symbol of French engineering and craftsmanship, and Bugatti spared no expense in its creation.
The Royale was originally designed for King Zog of Albania, but he never took delivery of the car. Instead, it was sold to an American businessman, who later sold it to a French industrialist. Today, the Royale is considered one of the most valuable cars in the world, with an estimated value of over $20 million.
The Legacy of the Royale
The Bugatti Royale is more than just a car – it's a piece of automotive history. Its sleek design, luxurious features, and rich history have made it a sought-after collector's item. The Royale has inspired generations of car designers and enthusiasts, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest cars of all time.
Specifications:
- Engine: 12.7-liter, 8-cylinder
- Horsepower: 300
- Length: 21 feet
- Weight: 3 tons
- Top speed: 100 mph
- Transmission: 4-speed manual
- Brakes: Mechanical drum brakes
Interesting Facts:
- The Royale was originally priced at 3 million francs, equivalent to around $100,000 in the 1930s.
- Only six Royale models were built, making it one of the rarest cars in the world.
- The Royale's massive engine was so large that it had to be started with a separate blower motor.
- The car's intricate metalwork was handcrafted by French artisans.
