According to copies of the Bugatti ledgers, reproduced in the American Bugatti Club Register, the Type 40 Grand Prix presented here was built much as it appears today. The original format was the iconic, four-place Grand Sport, which cleverly played on the hugely successful Grand Prix cars’ looks – only with space for passengers. It was fitted from new with engine no. 565, the unit it retains today. Long-established Lyon agency Christy, Pangaud & Monestier appears to have purchased the car for stock, as it was invoiced to them on September 10, 1928. Within a week, the firm had sold the car to its first owner, Jean Tisseyre, who used regional dealer plates to drive the car from Molsheim back to Lyon.

To remain in the authentic state it is in today, the first chapter of this car’s life cannot have been too complicated. However, its trail only begins upon its arrival in the US, when it was owned by Joe Dickie. Despite there being a well-known cache of European dealers – such as de Dobbeleer and Loyens – supplying Bugattis to the US, it is not documented as passing through these channels.

From Mr. Dickie, this car passed to noted Bugatti collector Carlton Coolidge, then to his wife upon their divorce. At this point, as with others in the Coolidge’s stable, the Bugatti was given a glitzy concours restoration in Bugatti blue with black fenders, highly polished castings, brightwork, and chrome wire wheels. By the time Ms. Coolidge decided to sell the car, it had been with her for 30 years, tracking the Coolidge family’s ownership back to the 1970s. Chassis 40661 was next acquired by the Blackhawk Collection, before being sold to St. Louis-based collector Fred Guyton.

Guyton retained the car for 17 years, during which time it was believed to have been among his favorites in his extensive collection. Notably, it was exhibited at the 2012 Celebration of Automobiles at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where it earned a First Place award. When eventually sold, 40661 was bought by another serial Bugattiste, who has enjoyed the car over the ensuing eight years, all the while maintaining it and generally improving its already excellent presentation. A new full-length top and weather equipment have been supplied, as well as the wheels shod with new tires, all being managed by Sargent Metal Works.

In its design, the Type 40 balances all of the wonderful ingredients of the marque in this period. It is eminently usable in club events and – owing to its period history – carries the additional benefit of being eligible for the 1000 Miglia, subject to Registro acceptance. This fine, well-kept Type 40 Grand Sport is worthy of close consideration.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled 1927.