1931 Bugatti Type 50 Roadster

The Bugatti Type 50 was a development of the Type 46 touring model that employed a powerful new engine. A new dual overhead-cam straight eight was equipped with two carburetors, a large supercharger, and dry sump lubrication; this same engine, in tuned form, was used in the Type 54 Grand Prix racecar. Of the 65 cars built, only four had factory roadster coachwork and this is the sole remaining example.

Chassis 50123 was described by Road & Track, July 1958 as 'a sports car of Herculean size and strength.' The car is capable of producing over 200 hp with its Roots-type supercharger and dual Zenith carburetors.

Depending on the body style the Type 50 might reach a top speed of 105 mph and a 0-60 time of eight seconds. Production of the Type 50 lasted from 1930 through 1933 with just 65 built. Many magnificent bodies, both closed and open, were installed on the Type 50 chassis.

The Type 50 is a highly regarded and rare automobile. It made $ 1.5m in May 2019.