Bugatti Celebrates the Centenary of the Type 35: A Legendary Race Car
Bugatti recently marked the centenary of its iconic race car, the Type 35. This legendary vehicle was campaigned by Bugatti for six years, from 1924 to 1930. The Type 35 made its debut at the Lyon Grand Prix on August 3, 1924, after an impressive 300-mile drive from Bugatti’s Molsheim factory to the city. Equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated straight eight engine, the Type 35 boasted power outputs ranging from 74bhp to around 94bhp.
However, the race didn’t go as planned for Bugatti. Out of the five Type 35s entered into the 35-lap, 500-mile grand prix, only two managed to finish due to tyre troubles. Autocar’s race report from August 8, 1924, reveals that Bugatti faced issues with unsuitable tyres that had too much rubber on the tread. The excessive rubber would come off as soon as a certain speed was maintained. Despite these setbacks, the two Bugatti finishers managed to secure seventh and eighth place, while an Alfa Romeo P2 emerged victorious.
Autocar had the opportunity to test drive a road-registered Type 35 on June 11, 1926. The reviewer was thoroughly impressed by the car’s performance, describing it as “something worth having” at full speed. The open-wheel, open-air body of the Type 35 made it particularly appealing to enthusiasts, despite the challenges it posed on muddy roads. The reviewer even found pleasure in the feel of rain against their face and the freshness of the cold air. This test drive provided valuable insights into the car’s capabilities, highlighting its ability to be driven comfortably even at low speeds in London.
Bugatti’s celebration of the Type 35 is not only a tribute to its rich heritage but also a strategic move to navigate the transition into the electric age. Last year, Bugatti unveiled the 57 One of One, a Chiron model that paid homage to the 1934 Type 57. This year, the company has hinted at the possibility of developing a GT car inspired by the Type 57. By drawing on its historical successes, Bugatti aims to position itself as a leader in the electric vehicle market while staying true to its legacy of performance and innovation.
Bugatti’s commitment to honoring its past while embracing the future is evident in its recent endeavors. The Type 35’s centenary celebration serves as a reminder of the brand’s heritage and its determination to push boundaries in the automotive industry. With its continuous innovation and dedication to delivering exceptional performance, Bugatti remains a prominent player in the world of luxury cars.