1929 Bugatti Type 37 Grand Prix
This Bugatti Type 37, chassis #37383, was completed in June 1929 as one of the final examples built. Ordered by Charles Faroux, friend of Ettore Bugatti and co-founder of the famed Le Mans 24 Hours Race, it likely came equipped with engine #286, one of the last five units made for the Type 37.
Faroux quickly sold the car to prominent French post-impressionist artist René Durey. Durey registered the Bugatti in Paris but never raced it, keeping the car his entire life until passing away in 1959. Over 30 years of single ownership speaks to the everyday usability of these rapid yet refined machines.
The Type 37 later passed through a succession of enthusiast collectors. Historic racer Jean de Rochechouart de Mortemart had the engine rebuilt before taking part in local competition. It then moved to Louis Blériot, grandson of the pioneering aviator, who actively campaigned the Bugatti in concours and historic rallies like the inaugural Monte Carlo event for veteran cars.
More recent ownership saw the Type 37 complete the punishing Tours Auto and multiple gatherings of the marque faithful at Molsheim.
Though the 1.5 liter Type 37 was outpaced by larger Grand Prix cars by the late 1920s, it carried on Bugatti’s tradition for spirited performance. And with that unmistakable Bugatti look, these fleet machines could still triumph at the national level against amateur drivers.
Boasting over nine decades of documented history including Le Mans co-founder Faroux, this antique racer turned road warrior represents a rare opportunity to acquire a driving link to French motorsport’s golden era.
Credit: Bonhams|Cars
