1937 Bugatti 57S Atalante: A Masterpiece of French Automotive Engineering
The 1937 Bugatti 57S Atalante is a rare and exquisite example of French automotive engineering, blending style, performance, and luxury in a package that is still revered today.
Design and Features
The Atalante was designed by Jean Bugatti, the son of Ettore Bugatti, and was the first production car to feature a swooping, curved design that would become a hallmark of the Bugatti brand. The 57S Atalante was a coupe version of the 57 model, featuring a sleek, aerodynamic body that was both beautiful and functional.
The car's centerpiece was its stunning curved tail, which gave the Atalante its sleek, streamlined appearance. The body was made of aluminum, which provided exceptional strength and lightness, and was mounted on a ladder-frame chassis.
Performance
Under the hood, the 57S Atalante packed a 3.3-liter, inline-eight engine that produced 175 horsepower, making it one of the fastest production cars of its time. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission, and the car featured a top speed of over 130 mph.
Rarity and Collectibility
Only 17 examples of the 57S Atalante were produced between 1937 and 1939, making it an extremely rare and coveted collector's item. In recent years, Atalantes have sold at auction for tens of millions of dollars, solidifying their status as some of the most valuable and sought-after classic cars in the world.
Legacy
The 1937 Bugatti 57S Atalante is a testament to the innovative spirit and design genius of Jean Bugatti, and its influence can be seen in many modern sports cars. Today, the Atalante remains an iconic symbol of French automotive excellence, and its beauty, performance, and rarity make it a true masterpiece of the automotive world.
Specifications
- Engine: 3.3-liter, inline-eight
- Horsepower: 175
- Transmission: Four-speed manual
- Top Speed: Over 130 mph
- Production: 17 units (1937-1939)
- Body Material: Aluminum
- Chassis: Ladder-frame
The 1937 Bugatti 57S Atalante is a true automotive treasure, and its combination of style, performance, and rarity make it a legendary collector's item.
