A rare and sassy 1938 Bugatti Type 57 Ventoux coupe has been discovered chilling in an old barn…for about four decades. The supercar was purchased by an engineer in the early sixties and maintained in a completely asinine manner. But alas, it is a Bugatti, and it will sell!

The 38 Bugatti is set to hit the luxury car auction block at Bonhams September 17-18, 2011 where it is expected to go for $150,000. Gulp. Yes, $150,000 for a Bugatti that was reduced to a pile of barn clutter. This is an indicator of just how vital branding is to any item.

1938 Bugatti Type 57 Ventoux coupe

The owner was apparently one of those types who juggle multiple hobbies, never actually completing many of them. The Bugatti was originally delivered to Switzerland prior to being imported, in a dark blue shade with matching interior. As an engineer, the owner had the potential to refurbish the Bugatti, and perhaps get it running, yet never did.  Shame!

1938 Bugatti Type 57 Ventoux coupe rear

The model is an example of Bugatti’s famed twin cam Type 57, a 2-door coupe with a steep windshield and fall-away tail. It was known as the Ventoux, a desirable series of the 57 models that had hydraulic brakes.

According to Bonham’s specialist Rupert Banner,
"This remarkably original example was chosen by its passionate engineer owner in the 1960s and then never restored, ensuring that it has survived intact. It’s a wonderful experience to hear of a ‘barn find’ car, but when the magic name ‘Bugatti’ is mentioned it makes it all the more special."

White 1938 Bugatti Type 57 Ventoux coupe

 

More on Bugatti and our fleet of luxury rental cars await!

 

 

 

Post by Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals