Bugatti Type 35 at 100: Owners Keep Racing with Unwavering Passion
A century after its debut, the Bugatti Type 35 continues to race on historic tracks, driven by a devoted community who see it as a calling, not a hobby.
- over 2,500
- 7
What Happened
The Bugatti Type 35, unveiled at the 1924 Lyon Grand Prix, was a breakthrough in lightness and balance, going on to achieve over 2,500 victories. A century later, surviving examples are still raced hard by a small community of owners, who invest decades into learning to drive them. The car's steering, engine, and vibrations create a unique connection between driver and machine that no modern car can replicate.
over 2,500
The Type 35 is the most successful competition car of its era, dominating road races, rallies, speed trials, and hill climbs.
Ettore Bugatti unveils the Type 35 at the Lyon Grand Prix.
William Grover-Williams wins the first Monaco Grand Prix in a Type 35B.
Surviving Type 35s continue to race at events like Monaco, Le Mans Classic, and Goodwood.
“As long as I can. I can't stop. No way.”
Why this matters
The story highlights how a 100-year-old racing car remains competitive and cherished, thanks to the passion and dedication of its owners, preserving automotive history in motion.
Terms in This Story
- Type 35
- A historic Bugatti racing car introduced in 1924, known for its exceptional lightness, balance, and mechanical refinement.
- Hill climb
- A motorsport where cars race uphill against the clock, often on closed public roads.
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