1935 Bugatti Type 57 Grand Raid

In 1934 Bugatti prepared a special Type 57 called the Grand Raid roadster for the Paris Motor show that showcased the model’s racing potential. This became the prototype for several more Grand Raid chassis produced in early 1935.

On the 1934 Paris Motor Show stand, Bugatti had prepared a stunning showpiece with a bright yellow accent flash that flowed from the hood to the side of the car.

Emphasizing the Grand Raid’s sporting potential, was a sleek two-piece front windshield and a flashback rear end with over-emphasized head fairings.

To move the driver further backward on the chassis, Bugatti modified the steering column angle and this became the distinct feature of nine more production models to follow. Naturally, the gear lever, handbrake, pedals and dashboard mounts were also extended.

Of the 10 Grand Raid cars, three were made into the first Coupé Atalantes and were initially called Faux Cabriolets due to their large roll-back roofs. Later production Atalantes dropped the Grand Raid name even though they all had the modified the steering column and subsequent modifications.

While the Type 57 Production was well underway, the Grand Raid Roadster was used in several races such as the Paris-Nice Rally.

See full 1935 Bugatti Type 57 Grand Raid Gallery here

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