Prewar Bugatti Collection Returns to Molsheim

Bugatti has acquired five prewar models. Impressively, most of these cars have original paint, trim materials, and individual rivets, with some combinations probably chosen by Ettore Bugatti or his son Jean.

The collection, which includes Type 51, Type 37A, Type 49 Faux Cabriolet, Type 35B, and Type 35A, has been collected and meticulously cared for by Swiss Bugatti enthusiast Hans Matti over several decades, and related photographs, magazine features, books, The collection is an accumulation of archival material from the factory.

One might wonder how Bugatti came by this collection. According to the company, Matti did not want to give up this collection. After two and a half years of discussions and with the help of Ettore Bugatti's granddaughter Caroline, Matti finally relented.

After leaving Matti's home in Switzerland, the cars' first stop was Bugatti's headquarters in Molsheim, France. Bugatti plans to keep these cars in their original, unrestored condition. [Bugatti President Christophe Piochon said in a statement, "This collection of cars and the stories behind them are extremely valuable and we are honored to welcome them to the home of Bugatti Automobiles."

The Type 51 is perhaps the most impressive model. It began production as one of the last of the Type 35Bs, but was converted to a Type 51 when Bugatti decided to put a new twin-cam engine under the hood. It competed in numerous races, including Monaco, Monza, and Targa Florio. Legendary Bugatti driver Achille Waluzzi was one of those who participated in the races.

Interestingly, the original engine installed in the Type 51 when it was still a Type 35B was swapped into the Type 35B in this collection. The Type 35A in this collection also does not have the original engine. Instead, it is powered by the only rare engine in existence, which was installed in Bugatti's Type 36. The Type 35A also has the gearbox and rear axle of the Type 36.

The Type 49 Faux Cabriolet in the collection was Jean Bugatti's personal car. Unusually for a Type 49, it featured a body designed and built in the Bugatti factory, and because it belonged to Jean Bugatti, his initials were engraved on the doors.

Completing the collection is an early supercharged model with matching numbers, the Type 37A. According to Bugatti, the car has an extensive history, dating back to its first owner.