NEW ZEALAND CLASSIC CAR AUTOMOBILIA Collectible Models / Lifestyle / Book and DVD Reviews – Edited by James Black Book reviews Bugatti Type 57 Grand Prix: A Celebration (Veloce) F

Neil Max Tomlinson ISBN 978 1 845847 89 0 Available from Octane Books, Auckland Review by James Black

ollowing our short piece in last month’s issue regarding the ‘ barnfind’ Bugatti Type 57, this new book draws together all the current knowledge and information available on the Type 57 Grand Prix ‘ Tank’ cars. Created by Ettore Bugatti’s son, Jean, these streamlined race cars proved to be very successful on the track — Roger Labric’s 57G won the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in 1937, with Jean-pierre Wimille repeating that victory in a 57S in 1939.

Gathering together much previously unpublished material — including Bugatti factory drawings — along with all the facts relating to the complex history of the cars, has allowed the author to provide a very clear look at these famous racing vehicles. It also let him re-evaluate some of the more traditional beliefs regarding these models and, along the way, to explode a few myths and challenge some of the long-held rumours about them. For instance, the new information uncovered by Tomlinson — a long-time member of the Bugatti Trust — now provides a convincing case that the factory originally built four Type 57Gs rather than the three cars previously thought to have been produced.

Complete with the history of each car, the engines, chassis evolution, and race results, this book provides a comprehensive and, indeed, radical look at these iconic and historic racing cars. The author even includes a section illustrating the many toys and models of the Type 57G that have been produced over the last 70-odd years.

An absolutely essential book — recommended for both Bugatti and historic motor-sport enthusiasts.