France vs France — 1931 vs 1934
| Type 41 Royale | Type 59 Grand Prix | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 250 hp |
| Engine Size | 12,763 cc | 3,257 cc |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 162 mph |
| Weight | 7,000 lbs | 1,653 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 4,300 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 6,400 mm | 3,800 mm |
| Units Produced | 6 | 7 |
| Original MSRP | $30,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000,000 | $25,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Grand Prix with higher top speed, lighter weight, better value. The 1931 Bugatti Type 41 Royale offers more power, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Bugatti Type 41. The 1931 and 1934 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1931 Bugatti Type 41 Royale holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 250 hp, a 50-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bugatti Type 41 uses a Straight-8 OHC 16V displacing 12,763 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 100 mph. The Bugatti Type 59 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 5347 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1931 Bugatti Type 41 Royale commands a significant premium over the 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Grand Prix, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.