• A charming example of Bugatti’s four-cylinder tourer
• Fitted with its matching-numbers crankcase
• Presented with attractive Grand Sport-style coachwork
• Maintained by marque specialists; benefits from 2013 engine rebuild and 1994 gearbox rebuild
• Eligible for all manner of historic car events; a perfect entry ticket into Bugatti ownership

One of just 790 Type 40s believed to have been built, chassis 40377 left Molsheim on 6 April 1927 and was placed on a freighter bound for South America. Ordered by Count Luiz Eduardo Matarazzo of Sao Paolo, Brazil—Bugatti’s representative for the continent—it is likely that the car was fitted with a body completed by a South American coachbuilder. The factory ledger notes that it was delivered new with engine number 280, and the matching-numbers crankcase remains fitted to this Type 40 today.

By 1971, 40377 was in Argentina and registered “816∙866” in Buenos Aires. Discovered by John Lodwig with a sporty two-seater body, this Bugatti was sold to Øivind Selvig of Norway, who commenced a lengthy restoration that continued until 1983. During this time, a new Grand Sport-style body was fitted. Two years later, it was sold to Paal Myhre, who in turn traded it on to the consigning owner in 1993. The car has since been maintained by marque specialist Ivan Dutton, benefitting from an engine rebuild in 2013 and a gearbox rebuild in 1994. At some point in its life, this Type 40 was upgraded with twin Solex carburettors.

A highly useable and attractive model, this Type 40 has developed a mellow patina since its restoration over four decades ago. Fitted with its matching-numbers crankcase, this wonderful Type 40 is the perfect entry for any enthusiast into the enjoyable world of Bugatti ownership.

Please note this lot has entered the EU on a temporary import bond, which must be cancelled either by exporting the lot outside of the EU on an approved Bill of Lading with supporting customs documentation or by paying the applicable VAT and import duties to have the lot remain in the EU.

Veuillez noter que ce lot est entré dans l'UE sous couvert d'une autorisation d'importation temporaire, qui doit être annulée soit en exportant le lot en dehors de l'UE avec une lettre de débarquement approuvé accompagné des documents douaniers nécessaires, soit en payant la TVA et les droits d'importation applicables pour que le lot reste dans l'UE.

To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/pa24/.