1936 Bugatti T57 Ventoux
1936 Bugatti Type 57 Ventoux Coupé
Chassis no. 57345
Engine no. 57345 282
Body no. 57 1146
History and Ownership
This 1st Series Ventoux, chassis number 57345, remains remarkably original. Ordered new in December 1935 by André 'Charles' Chauvenet, a prominent surgeon from Sèvres and a favored Bugatti client, the car was assembled in early 1936. It retained its original engine and was delivered with an optional downdraft carburettor and four-wheel hydraulic brakes, one of the earliest examples with this feature. The car’s early 1st Series body includes the partitioned boot and is one of the few without running boards.
Before the war, Chauvenet moved to Paris, where the car was stored. In 1960, it was sold by Parisian dealer Edgar Bensoussan to J.W. Harrison in Virginia, USA. In 1967, it was purchased by David Uihlein of Wisconsin, who maintained the car’s originality and enjoyed regular use for over 40 years. After Uihlein's death, the car was sold and has been in the current UK-based owner's care since early 2013.
Condition and Preservation
Chassis no. 57345 retains its original engine, gearbox, rear axle, and body. The body panels and trim components are all original, showing no signs of accident damage, corrosion, or past repairs. The paintwork, in original nitro-cellulose, is well-preserved despite nearly 80 years of use. The tan leather interior shows moderate wear, consistent with age and careful use, while the instruments, controls, and glass remain original and functional.
All major chassis elements are original and in excellent condition, with no signs of damage or repairs. The suspension, brakes, and all mechanical components are original and functioning properly. The engine, gearbox, drive shaft, and suspension are also original and in excellent condition, with the exception of the canvas flexible couplings, which need replacing. The original wire wheels are in good condition, although the tyres are over 50 years old and suitable only for display.
Once re-shod with appropriate tyres, this remarkable Type 57 Ventoux would be perfect for touring, rallies, leisure driving, and the 'preservation' class at major concours events such as Pebble Beach, Villa d'Este, and Amelia Island.