Bugatti Type 55 1931
The 1931 Bugatti Type 55 Base version marks the initial concrete form of a model introduced by Bugatti at the Paris Motor Show of the same year. This car combines competition-derived engineering — notably a straight-eight engine with dual overhead camshafts and a supercharger — with a design suited for road use. It embodies Bugatti's intent to bring the prestige and technology of racing cars closer to everyday driving. This Base version, known as the prototype, exemplifies the key technical features shared across all Type 55 productions.

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History
The Bugatti Type 55 emerged during a period when the brand aimed to bring its road cars closer to its competition models. Officially unveiled in 1931 at the Paris Motor Show, this car features a 2.3-litre straight-eight engine whose technology directly derives from the Grand Prix Type 51. The Base road version, including the prototype known by chassis number 55201, is equipped with a supercharger and delivers power generally estimated around 130 horsepower. Its design emphasizes a chassis and suspension influenced by racing cars while maintaining a transmission suitable for road use. The bodywork often varied based on customer preferences, although the two-seater roadster designed by Jean Bugatti is the most emblematic shape from this era.
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Production
Production of the Type 55 was very limited, with about 38 units built between 1931 and 1935. The Base version corresponds to the earliest chassis delivered at launch, including the prototype commonly identified by chassis number 55201. Exact production figures by version are not detailed, but it is likely that the Base covers the initial built examples before variations introduced in subsequent years.
Evolution
Variants
References
- 1933 Bugatti Type 55 Super SportRevs Institute
Supports the relationship between the Type 55 engine, the Type 51 Grand Prix car and the longer road-oriented chassis.
- 1931 Bugatti Type 55 Roadster – Chassis 55201Ultimatecarpage.com
Supports the identification of chassis 55201 as the first Type 55 constructed and its appearance at the 1931 Paris Motor Show.
- Bugatti Type 51 Grand Prix vs Type 55: twin-cam cousinsClassic & Sports Car
Supports the Type 55’s road-going relationship to the Type 51, the commonly cited 130 bhp output and characteristic body and wheel details.
- https://www.conceptcarz.com/profile/25711%2C12528/1931-Bugatti-Type-51.aspxconceptcarz.com
Source found by OpenAI web search for this model page.
- https://www.classicdriver.com/en/car/bugatti/type-51/1931/927321classicdriver.com
Source found by OpenAI web search for this model page.



