France vs France — 1932 vs 1934
| Type 55 Super Sport | Type 59 Grand Prix | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 135 hp | 250 hp |
| Engine Size | 2,262 cc | 3,257 cc |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 162 mph |
| Weight | 2,094 lbs | 1,653 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,750 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 3,900 mm | 3,800 mm |
| Units Produced | 38 | 7 |
| Value (Excellent) | $10,000,000 | $25,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
The 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Grand Prix emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1932 Bugatti Type 55 Super Sport counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Bugatti Type 55 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1932 Bugatti Type 55 Super Sport with the 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Grand Prix reveals how Bugatti refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Grand Prix holds a clear advantage in raw power with 250 hp compared to 135 hp, a 115-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bugatti Type 55 uses a Straight-8 DOHC Supercharged displacing 2,262 cc, while the Bugatti Type 59 relies on a Inline-8 DOHC Supercharged with 3,257 cc. The 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Grand Prix claims a higher top speed at 162 mph compared to 112 mph. The Bugatti Type 59 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 441 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 7 units built, the 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Grand Prix is considerably scarcer than the Bugatti Type 55's 38 examples. On the collector market, the 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Grand Prix commands a significant premium over the 1932 Bugatti Type 55 Super Sport, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.