1928 Bugatti Type 35C Boattail Racer

The Bugatti Type 35 was an iconic, important, and historically significant Grand Prix car in Bugatti's racing history during the 1920s. It would quickly become one of the most dominant vehicles in motorsport with nearly 1,800 racing victories attributed to different varieties of the Type 35.

The car's greatness was sourced from its featherweight chassis, short wheelbase, brilliant engineering, and its low center of gravity. It took full advantage of the new two-litre formula. Using the small displacement, roller-bearing engine, it had a high redline. With the addition of a blower, there was sufficient power throughout the rev-range.

This car, chassis number 4935, began life as a Type 35B. It would have a long and fascinating race record. Later in life, it was purchased by Dr. Williamson - his first Bugatti. Prior to the acquisition, it had been with restorer Bunny Phillips, where it remained for some time. In the early 1960s, Eugene Kettering, Peter Williamson's father-in-law, purchased the T35 on the condition that Phillips would be commissioned to complete the restoration.

The car was disassembled and a new frame was sourced - number 342 - thought to be from another Type 35. A Type 35C engine was installed along with the appropriate driveline and suspension components. It is believed that the engine is number 186, meaning it originally belonged to another Bugatti, chassis 4940. Phillips constructed a new Grand Prix body incorporating unique features such as a small Type 37 radiator, cycle fenders, pinched hood, and full-road equipment. The body was mounted on the chassis and painted in French Blue.

Dr. Williamson later purchased the car from Mr. Kettering. Over the years, Dr. Williamson would acquire every straight-eight Bugatti as a direct result of his fondness for the first Bugatti he purchased - this Type 35C.

In 2010, this Bugatti was offered for sale at Gooding & Company's auction held in Amelia Island, Florida. The car was expected to sell for $100,000,000 - $140,000,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $900,000, inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2010