1931 Bugatti Type 37 news, pictures, and information

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Chassis Num: 37387

This whereabouts of this Bugatti Type 37-Ford Special was unknown for many decades, until the previous owner offered it for sale in 1993. It was originally owned by Elwood Lufkin who purchased the car after a tour of the Bugatti factory in 1931. Since the very early 1940s, its history a fate were the subject of much speculation. Its early life was spent racing in ARCA events. In 1935 its original engine (number 289), was replaced with a Ford Model B engine.

The car is currently in unrestored condition, used for leisurely drives and for vintage racing.

The Type 37 was first introduced in 1926 and available in two forms - normal and supercharged. The Supercharged versions were dubbed the 37A. Production lasted until 1930. During its production lifespan, around 290 examples were produced. The vehicle was powered by a 2-liter four-cylinder engine with either a Zenith or Solex carburetor. With the use of the supercharger, the engine produced 90 horsepower. Top speed was achieved at nearly 100 mph. Power was sent to the rear wheels through the use of a four-speed manual gearbox.

The Bugatti Type 35 featured a powerful engine and thus very successful on the racing circuit. Ettore Bugatti wanted to mass produce the Type 35 but feared the engine would be too powerful for road use. So he used then engine from the Type 40 and installed it in the chassis of the Type 35, resulting in the Type 37. The supercharged versions were dubbed the Type 37A.

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