1939 Bugatti Type 57C

The Shah of Persia's Bugatti Type 57C was among the more spectacular designs fit on a Type 57 chassis. Mohammad Pahlavi was born the son of Reza Pahlavi who was the Shah responsible for the modernization of Iran. The French Government commissioned the car as a gift for the Shah's wedding. To create one of most extravagant cars to come from their country, France chose Van Vooren and Bugatti. The legendary Bugatti Type 57C chassis (equipped with a supercharger) was chosen for the foundations of the car. It helped that the car produced an impressive 175 horsepower (130kW) from a 3245cc (198 cu in) engine.

Using the flowing lines of Figoni et Falaschi as inspiration, Van Vooren worked upon chassis #57808, a low slung Bugatti Type 57C. Their result was a twin passenger cabriolet of substantial proportion and style. Unusual highlights introduced by Van Vooren included a very short windscreen which could be wound down into the bulkhead and a disappearing top which was concealed by a panel behind the interior.

Until 1979, the Shah's Bugatti stayed in the Royal Court of Iran. Afterwards, the Ayatullahs, who had nearly scraped the car, sold the it at a very low price. Fortunately, the buyer had the Bugatti shipped to the USA and saved it in the process. At this point the car was heavily butchered to accommodate an Amercian V8 until later shipped to England for a full restoration.

The car is now a part of the permanent collection at the Petersen Museum here in Los Angeles.

Limited editions of ten pieces. CNC'ed 6061 Aluminum panels, graphic fused into the brushed aluminum surface via a novel combination of anodizing and silk screening crafts. 13 5/8" x 9 1/8", 1/2" thick. Delivered in a hand made Maple wood presentation box with Alcantara lining and the ICON Lizard laser etched on the top.