1934 Bugatti Type57 Cabrolet

1934 Bugatti Type 57 Cabriolet / Chassis 57162

An exceptionally rare and beautifully presented example of the legendary Bugatti Type 57, this elegant Vanvooren-bodied cabriolet represents one of the most desirable prewar grand touring Bugatti’s ever produced.

Chassis 57162 was supplied new through renowned Paris Bugatti dealer Dominque Lamberjack, who held the exclusive rights to sell Bugatti motorcars in Paris between 1932 and 1935.

During June–October 1934, Lamberjack received four Type 57 chassis, all of which were delivered to the celebrated Parisian coachbuilder Vanvooren to be fitted with bespoke four seat cabriolet coachwork.

Completed in December 1934, chassis 57162 was delivered new on the 12th of December to Baron Charles Brincard of Paris, France.

The car remained in Paris during the war years, stored in a private garage before passing to new ownership in 1947. A known ownership history accompanies the car, including long term ownership by André Laporte from July 1965 through until 1998.

The Bugatti was sold to a museum in Madrid, Spain, before being sold at auction in Paris in May 2020.

New owner sent to New Zealand to Auto Restorations Christchurch, New Zealand.

Since arriving in New Zealand, the car has undergone significant mechanical recommissioning and new interior and hood . This includes:

•Major engine rebuild

•Recast engine block replacing the original cracked block

•New crankshaft and pistons

•Rebuilt diff and gearbox, plus brakes

•Beautiful new hood

•Stunning new tan patterned leather interior trim

The interior presents superbly and perfectly complements the elegance and flowing proportions of the original Vanvooren coachwork.

The Type 57 remains one of the defining creations of Jean Bugatti, son of company founder Ettore Bugatti.

Introduced in 1934, the Type 57 combined advanced engineering with extraordinary style . Today, surviving coach built examples are highly sought after worldwide for their rarity, beauty, and historical importance.

Opportunities to acquire a genuine prewar coach built Bugatti of this calibre are exceedingly rare.

 Chassis 57162 offers outstanding provenance, elegant French coachwork, known history, and superb presentation a true centrepiece for any significant collection.