The most expensive car in the world: Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

Since the beginning of its existence Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic belongs to the list of the most mysterious and at the same time expensive cars. Jean Bugatti personally took part in the development of the model. The history of these cars has been more than seventy years. The first copy of the model was demonstrated during the Automobile Exhibition in Paris in 1935. It was the new sports revolutionary model Bugatti Type 57, which caused the greatest excitement among the public.

An interesting feature of the brand is the original, drop-shaped body on a wooden frame, which was made of light metal, which is an alloy of aluminum and magnesium. It was called "electron" and was invented a little earlier by Farben. Since this metal was highly flammable, the manufacturer decided that it was not possible to use welding for the car. All the outer seams were riveted, which made the design very special. However, only three orders were received for the production of cars, in connection with which it was decided to use it further for the assembly of aluminum, and not for the "electron". Along with this, the principle of assembling the body on rivets has not changed.

The model is known for being the first in the history of cars to conquer the speed of 200 km / h. This mark was achieved due to a powerful compressor motor, installed on a short low chassis. Its capacity was 210 "horses" with a volume of 3257 cubic centimeters. The car used a traditional suspension for the time with semi-elliptic springs on the front axle and quarter-elliptical springs on the rear axle. As for the chassis, the car was equipped with fifteen-inch wheels, which were attached using a central nut, as well as De Rams brake pads and shock absorbers.

The first among the issued Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic with chassis number 57374 was ordered by Lord Rothschild. It had a salon of dark blue color and a light blue hull. Later, he owned Bob Oliver, made a number of changes in the design of the car, and Peter D. Williamson, for two years, restored the original appearance of the car.

The second copy from chassis No. 577473 was purchased by an elderly couple from France, who later returned the car to the plant. Next, the car has changed its owners more than once, until in 1955 it fell into a clash with the train at the crossing. As a result, its owner René Šatar was killed along with the companion, who was behind the wheel.

Separate words deserve the last among Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, the photo of which is located above. The model has a chassis number of 57491. In 1939, the car was bought by RV. Pope, and in the sixties its owner was Barry Price, a famous writer. In 1988, the car was purchased by the famous fashion designer from New York, Ralph Lauren. Regardless of the excellent condition, within two years the car was restored, after which it returned to its original form and differed from the original only in black.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is now the most expensive car on the planet. According to unofficial data, the first of the three cars released was sold to the Californian museum Mullin Automotive for more than $ 30 million. So far this is an absolute record for the whole history of the automotive industry.