The Fascinating Story Of The 1926 Bugatti Type 37: A Timeless Racing Legend

The Iconic Bugatti Grand Prix Model

With the launch of the Grand Prix model in 1924, Ettore Bugatti created one of the most iconic racing cars in history, and certainly one of the most instantly recognisable silhouettes in Grand Prix car design.

The Unique Design and Performance of the Type 37

The Bugatti Type 37 combines purposeful aesthetics with an understated simplicity, relying on finesse and lightweight design for its performance, rather than the over-engineered brute force typically found in other racing cars of the period. The car’s 1.5-litre, single overhead cam engine was as compact as it was powerful, resulting in a top speed of nearly 100mph (in 1926, wow). Additionally, braking was highly effective, making the Type 37 a race-winning car for any serious driver on the international motor racing scene.

Early Ownership and Notable Owners

This particular car, chassis number 37139, I saw and photoed at Concours of Elegance 2024. It was first owned by Malcolm Campbell, though he kept it for just one year. It then passed through the hands of Percy Musker of Thetford, before being acquired by a merchant banker named Cyril Kleinwort, both in 1927.

A Bugatti at Cambridge

In 1928, stewardship passed to Philippe Mossay, who used the Bugatti as his daily transport while studying at Cambridge University. By 1932, the car was being offered for sale by Mr Robertson through Jack Bartlett. In 1937, it found a new owner, Mr Osburne of Norwich, who soon sold it to Mr Melly of Liverpool.

Post-War Ownership and Enthusiasts

The Bugatti remained with Mr Melly until 1953, when it was passed to H Sergeant of Abergavenny. The car then entered the stewardship of Bernard Kain in 1960. Just two years later, Kain sold it to Wolf Zeuner, who, along with his daughter Jane, enjoyed the car for 35 years.

Restoration and Continued Use

In 1996, the car was acquired by the Haithwaite family and underwent a sympathetic mechanical restoration by Bugatti specialist Ivan Dutton, with a focus on retaining its originality. Impressively, this is a matching-numbers car with its original Grand Prix body. Following the restoration, it was extensively used in events such as the Mille Miglia retrospective and numerous international Bugatti rallies. It even travelled to Japan and won a prize at Salon Privé.

A Bugatti for Everyday Use

Despite its historical significance and accolades, the car hasn’t been confined to static displays. It has been used regularly for commuting, including trips to the office and even shopping runs. Since being bought by Deryk Haithwaite, the car has continued to be enjoyed by two more generations of the family. As proudly noted in the event submission: “Being a Bugatti, it doesn’t need to be especially clean, and the oil on the bodywork should be kept.”

Technical Specifications

Engine – 1498cc inline-four, naturally aspirated, SOHC

Transmission – Four-speed manual, RWD

Power – 60bhp

Torque – N/A

Top Speed – 95mph

0-60mph – N/A

Weight – 700kg

What a beauty. I love these old racing Bugatti. This car really caught my attention and made it into my top 10 cars at the 2024 Concours of Elegance. Check out that top 10 here.

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