Bugatti Type 45 Bi Motor

With an interest in gaining more displacement without retooling, Bugatti started manufacturing uncommon U-engines. These used two separate straight engine engines joined by gears. Despite the heavier weight, and power lost to joining gears, the main advantage of the U engine was its ability to share common parts.

In the case of the Type 45, Bugatti was able to achieve 250 bhp, through a union of two supercharged Type 35 Grand Prix engines. The bulky engine sat in a conventional Bugatti chassis which was renowned for its light weight and nimble handling. Most likely, the heft of the U16 contributed to the Type 45’s lack of success. Bugatti only made this single car, and another rolling chassis.

For a long time, the sole Type 45 was part of the famous Schlumpf collection in Mulhouse, France. It was recently removed from the collection and received a comprehensive restoration by Leydon Restorations before appearing at the 2003 Pebble Beach Concours.

Pictures & Gallery

See full 1930 Bugatti Type 45 Bi Motor Gallery here

Specs & Performance

engine	U16
position	Front Longitudinal
aspiration	Twin Roots Superchargers
valvetrain	SOHC, 3 Valves per Cyl
fuel feed	Twin Zenith Carburettors
displacement	3801 cc / 232.0 in³
bore	60 mm / 2.36 in
stroke	84 mm / 3.31 in
power	186.4 kw / 250 bhp
specific output	62.78 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	277.78 bhp per tonne
redline	5000
driven wheels	Spur Driven RWD
wheel type	Cast Aluminum GP
front tires	5.00 x 19
rear tires	5.00 x 19
front brakes	Drums, Cable Operated
f brake size	mm / in
rear brakes	Drums, Cable Operated
r brake size	mm / in
curb weight	900 kg / 1984 lbs
wheelbase	2596 mm / 102.2 in
front track	1250 mm / 49.2 in
rear track	1250 mm / 49.2 in
transmission	4-Speed Manual
gear ratios	:1
final drive	2.80:1