Description
Bugatti Type 49 Faux-Cabriolet Gangloff (1931) — Chassis No. 49430
An Absolute Rarity
Presented in a configuration of rare elegance, this masterpiece of automotive history carries original chassis number 49430, powered by its factory engine L324. Clothed by the renowned Alsace-Swiss coachbuilder Gangloff, it is one of the very few surviving examples (only 3 recorded worldwide) to wear this fixed "Faux-Cabriolet" bodywork with chrome landau irons, combining the profile of a convertible with the comfort of a coupé.
Mechanical Specification & Driving;
Nicknamed the "Petite Royale" for its legendary flexibility, it embodies the golden age of Molsheim grand tourers:
• Engine: Legendary 3. 3-litre (3, 257 cc) straight-eight with single overhead camshaft and 24 valves, producing 85 horsepower.
• Fuel & Ignition: Twin Zenith carburettors (Solex modification on this car for known improvements) and twin-plug ignition system (two spark plugs per cylinder).
• Transmission: Four-speed manual gearbox with reverse gate (straight-cut, unsynchronised gears), demanding expert handling with double-declutching.
History & Participation;
Thoroughly documented and highly regarded by the Bugattiste community, chassis 49430 has featured at major international gatherings:
• Bugatti Centenary Festival at Molsheim (2009): Star of the official celebrations under entry number 165.
• Grand Prix Historique du Forez (2011): Notable participation under crew number 5.
• Its pure and exclusive lines were even immortalised in a prestige collectors' scale model by the craftsman Heco Miniatures.
Authenticated by the Bugatti France club.
Market Valuation;
Thanks to the authenticity of its components (matching numbers), its period Gangloff coachwork and its clear pedigree, on the (international) market this Bugatti is valued at the upper end of the international prestige auction market, (between €550, 000 and €650, 0000)
However, we are looking for a true enthusiast who will appreciate its historic value, offering the opportunity to make an offer from €300, 000.
The owner's wish is for the car to remain in France and continue to contribute to French industrial heritage.
A rare opportunity to acquire a model of the marque never modified, more comfortable to use and endowed with a unique elegance.
Running condition is good; a full overhaul will be carried out by a specialist.
