Bugatti Type 252 classic cars for sale

History of the Bugatti Type 252

The Type 252 was developed during Bugatti's transitional phase in the late 1950s, at a time when the company sought to revive its sporting heritage. Ettore Bugatti, known for his artistic and engineering prowess, had built a legacy of innovative cars, but by the 1950s the original Molsheim operation was dwindling. The Type 252 was an attempt to recapture some of the brand's magic; it was built as a sports car, but never entered production. Despite its singular existence, the car reflects Bugatti's uncompromising approach to design and mechanical sophistication.

Model History

The Type 252 stands alone with no direct predecessor or successor, distinguishing it from most Bugatti models. It followed a lineage of Grand Prix and touring cars like the Type 35 and Type 57. The prototype embodied many of the hallmarks for which Bugatti was recognised: refined engineering, sporting pretensions, and attention to aesthetic detail. It remained a one-off, holding a special chapter in Bugatti's timeline as the final original project before the marque's dormancy.

Highlights of the Bugatti Type 252

The Bugatti Type 252 features a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with 8 valves, housed in a two-seat sports convertible configuration. The only example ever built comes in sky-blue with a leather interior, combining technical innovation with visual elegance. The prototype is sometimes referred to as the 'Etorette'. Unique chassis and design elements link it to prior Bugatti sports models while showcasing postwar ideas.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

There are no special editions of the Type 252, as only a single unit was built. This prototype, sometimes referred to as the 'Etorette', is itself a singular piece and represents both a collectible and a museum display rather than a series-production vehicle.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Type 252's 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine was designed to deliver nimble performance consistent with smaller European sports cars of the era. The roadster layout suggested agile handling and spirited dynamics typical of late 1950s sports prototypes. However, since the car never entered series production, contemporary driving impressions and direct comparisons are not available. Other influential Bugatti models from earlier periods, such as the Type 35 for racing or Type 57 for grand touring, define the brand’s technical prowess and are better documented when it comes to technical data and driving dynamics.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The sole Type 252 was finished in a distinct sky-blue with a simple but refined leather interior, echoing Bugatti's tradition of combining mechanical precision with artistic style. The car's curvaceous body lines, paired with unique chassis detailing, demonstrate postwar design ambitions while respecting the marque’s classic proportions. Special features include precision detailing in engine bay finishes, hand-forged suspension parts, and a convertible top enhancing its open-road character. Accessories and optional extras are not documented for this one-off model.

Other relevant features

The Bugatti Type 252 remains on display at the Cité de l’Automobile museum in Mulhouse, France, offering enthusiasts a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship and design philosophy of late 1950s Bugatti. Its museum status means it remains well-preserved yet cannot be experienced on public roads.

Summary

The Bugatti Type 252 stands as a remarkable outlier in the history of Bugatti, being the last traditional project from the original marque before a prolonged hiatus. This prototype, never going into series production, distills the technological ambition and artistry of its maker into a single vehicle. As a result, it commands the unique status of museum artefact—cementing its significance in both automotive history and Bugatti’s storied catalogue.