1934 Bugatti Type 57 Dimensions, Size & Specs

With a width of 1499 mm (59 inches), the Bugatti Type 57 was fairly narrow compared to many modern vehicles but typical for 1930s luxury coupes. This narrower stance contributed to its agility and light steering feel, important for performance driving on the winding and often less developed roads of the time. Its slim profile not only enhanced aerodynamic efficiency but also accentuated its classic styling, making the vehicle visually striking while still practical for narrow roads and city streets common in that era.

The Bugatti Type 57 stands at 1346 mm (53 inches) tall. This relatively low height gives the coupe a sleek and aerodynamically favorable shape, reducing wind resistance which was a key focus for high-performance vehicles in the 1930s. The low profile also helps lower the car’s center of gravity, contributing to better stability and handling on curves. Inside the cabin, this height strikes a balance by providing sufficient headroom for a comfortable driver and passenger experience without sacrificing the sporty, streamlined exterior design.

The Bugatti Type 57 is equipped with 18-inch rims, which was considered quite large in the 1930s and contributed to better handling and ride quality. Compared to many modern vehicles where rim sizes typically range from 15 to 20 inches depending on the segment, the Type 57’s 18-inch wheels were relatively advanced for their time. These larger rims allowed for better tire profiles and improved grip, aiding the car’s performance-focused design and enhancing its road-holding capabilities.

Yes, the Bugatti Type 57’s dimensions make it compatible with a standard modern garage. With a length of 4216 mm (166 inches) and a width of 1499 mm (59 inches), it comfortably fits within typical residential garage dimensions, which often allow for at least 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 2.4 meters (8 feet) in width. The relatively low height of 1346 mm (53 inches) also poses no height clearance issues. Owners would find it practical to store the vehicle in a standard single-car garage without concerns about spatial constraints.

The Type 57 was an evolution of earlier Bugatti creations like the Type 49, with a focus on combining luxury with high performance. In terms of dimensions, it was somewhat more streamlined and slightly larger in length compared to many predecessors, reflecting advancements in automotive engineering and a shift toward more comfortable, faster grand tourers. Stylistically, the Type 57 featured more modern, aerodynamic lines and a refined coupe body, distinguishing it from the more square and upright designs typical of earlier 1920s models, marking it as a benchmark of pre-war automotive design.

When compared to other luxury grand tourers of the 1930s such as the Delahaye 135 or the Alfa Romeo 8C, the Bugatti Type 57 is generally more compact in width but similar in length and height. Its slender 1499 mm (59 inch) width contributed to an elegant, aerodynamic profile that emphasized speed and luxury. The Type 57’s design leaned heavily on performance and styling innovation, showcasing a blend of sophistication and sportiness that made it stand out among its contemporaries, many of which were bulkier and less focused on aerodynamic efficiency.

While exact weight can vary by specific model and coachwork, the Bugatti Type 57 typically weighs around 1200 to 1400 kilograms (2650 to 3086 pounds). This moderate weight for a grand touring coupe, combined with its 3.3-liter inline-8 engine, provided an excellent power-to-weight ratio for the era. The weight distribution and compact dimensions allowed nimble handling and agile acceleration, contributing to its reputation as a high-performance luxury car. The combination of lightweight construction and premium engineering made it a formidable competitor in pre-war motorsport and daily driving alike.

The Bugatti Type 57 was designed primarily as a two-door coupe with seating typically configured for two passengers, although some variants featured occasional rear seating. The interior offered adequate comfort for long-distance touring, with attention to detail and luxury materials enhancing the driving experience. Height at 1346 mm (53 inches) allowed for reasonable headroom, while the car’s width supported comfortable seating without feeling cramped. However, it prioritized sporty styling and performance over spaciousness, making it perfect for couples or solo drivers who enjoyed touring with style rather than larger families.

The Bugatti Type 57’s suspension design was advanced for its time, featuring semi-elliptical leaf springs and rigid axles that supported its relatively light and compact chassis. The combination of its 4216 mm (166 inch) length and 1499 mm (59 inch) width provided a platform that balanced stability with maneuverability. The 18-inch wheels complemented the suspension setup, enabling responsive handling on the variable road surfaces of the 1930s. Its driving dynamics reflected the priorities of pre-war sports luxury cars: combining speed, agility, and driver engagement with sufficient comfort for touring, all within a modest and elegantly sized package.