A rare Bugatti Type 57, one of the most revered models in automotive history, will be on show at the 46th Ellerslie Classic Car Show on February 11th. In its day, the Type 57 was hailed for its cutting- edge design and engineering; its chassis, suspension, engine, and driveline delivering what was then considered to be blistering performance.
Its lines were the handiwork of Ettore Bugatti’s son, Jean, whose skills were more than a match for the best coachbuilders Europe had to offer. However, amongst those coach builders, Gangloff is one whose name and reputation have weathered the test of time.
The 1934 Type 57 was the first roadster by Gangloff, which generated great interest at the Paris Motor Show, and was the only one produced for that year. In the spring of 1935 this same car was entered for the Cannes Concours d’Elegance and won the title “Grand Prix des Roadsters.” It was ordered for Agents Frederich, Nice, France at a price tag of 98,526 Francs. During its time in France the car was owned by two prominent entrepreneurs and ultimately an Austrian aristocrat.
In 1956 the car was imported into New Zealand priced at 350 Pounds. In 1958, it was acquired by an outstanding engineer, Bob Turnbull who transported it to the small quiet township of Ophir where it remained for 50yrs.
Turnbull died in 2012, and the Bugatti underwent a ground up restoration to what is believed to be its original colours of pearl with burgundy trim and carpet and pale tan upholstery. Restoration was completed in February 2015.
The vehicle is now owned by Auckland businessman Steve Lockwood, who plans to offer the car for display to prominent New Zealand car museums.
The car will be shown at Ellerslie by Waimak Classic Cars, a classic car specialist based in Rangiora, North Canterbury.
