The Bugatti Type 35, born from Ettore Bugatti's unique vision, remains a symbol of automotive excellence and inspiration for the Bugatti brand. Introduced in 1924, this car epitomized cutting-edge technology, exceptional driving characteristics, and enduring design.
Ettore Bugatti, coming from a family of artists, placed a high value on aesthetics in his creations. Yet, as a skilled engineer, he firmly believed that form should follow function. This philosophy ensured that the cars he designed were not only beautiful but also unparalleled in performance.
The Type 35 debuted in 1924, showcasing Ettore's meticulous attention to detail. The streamlined eight-cylinder machine featured aerodynamics driven by the need for a reduced frontal area. Every aspect of the car was crafted with precision, from the lustrous hollow front axle to the metal dashboard finished with "engine turn," a technique that enhanced appearance and prevented stress cracks. Even under the long, louvered bonnet, components were designed to look as good as they performed, like the exquisitely shaped exhaust manifolds of the 8-cylinder engine.
The perfect proportions of the Type 35's fuselage-shaped body have influenced Bugatti's modern designs. The horseshoe grille, although evolved, retains the same design purity and serves as the origin for all lines and volumes of the car. The intricate details of the Type 35, such as the front brakes controlled by a sophisticated linkage, have inspired modern Bugatti features like the engine start lever in the Tourbillon.
The Tourbillon features innovations like 3D-printed aluminum front suspension arms and uprights, reducing weight by 45 percent. This mirrors Ettore Bugatti's breakthroughs with aluminum wheels and hollow axles pioneered on the Type 35. Bugatti Director of Design Frank Heyl highlights that every part of a Bugatti is designed to look beautiful and purposeful, continuing Ettore Bugatti's philosophy of technical beauty combined with the latest technology.
Every Bugatti created in Molsheim is designed to endure for centuries, and the new Tourbillon proudly continues this tradition. Like the Type 35 before it, the Tourbillon is an automotive icon "Pour l’éternité" – for eternity.
Wael is an automotive content writer specializes in creating written content for Motor 283. Producing a wide range of content, including blog posts, articles, product descriptions, reviews, and technical guides related to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles, with an unprecedented passion for cars, and motorcycles.