Live on Bring a Trailer, enthusiasts have a chance to own a piece of automotive history with the unveiling of the 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Ventoux! This remarkable vehicle, representing one of approximately 700 examples crafted between 1934 and 1940, carries with it a captivating tale unlike any other. Ordered new by Circus Pinder director and animal tamer Roger Spiessert, this Bugatti holds a unique distinction - it was built to accommodate a baby elephant!
One such example is the 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Ventoux Project, a rare gem that offers a glimpse into the golden age of motoring. This particular Bugatti Type 57 is one of approximately 700 examples built between 1934 and 1940, each a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Bugatti marque. Ordered new by Circus Pinder director and animal tamer Roger Spiessert, this car was equipped with Jean Bugatti-designed Ventoux four-light coupe coachwork, making it a truly unique and special vehicle.
The history of this Bugatti Type 57 is as fascinating as the car itself. After passing through several owners, the car was eventually abandoned in Paris, where it remained for decades until it was discovered in the 1950s. In 1959, it was purchased by a California owner who had it shipped to Los Angeles, where it began a journey of restoration and preservation. Despite changing hands multiple times and spending years in storage, the car remained remarkably intact, a testament to its enduring quality and craftsmanship.
In a charming twist of fate, this Bugatti became an integral part of the circus promotion, as Spiessert, also known as Roger Spessardy, reportedly took to the roads with an elephant calf in tow. Commissioning a prancing elephant radiator mascot further immortalized this unusual partnership. Now, poised for auction with its BaT listing ending on Friday, April 12, this Bugatti offers enthusiasts an opportunity to own a piece of automotive and circus history combined.
With its steel bodywork, distinctive design features, and partially disassembled 3,257cc DOHC straight-eight engine, this Bugatti Type 57 represents a unique opportunity for automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike. As the restoration journey unfolds, this iconic Bugatti will once again take its place among the automotive legends, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Bugatti marque. See the listing here.
