The 1938 Bugatti Type 57 Cabriolet represents a rare intersection of Molsheim engineering and bespoke Belgian artistry. As an Aravis-inspired creation by D’Ieteren, chassis 57589 is the only example of its kind, commissioned with specific proportions to accommodate an exceptionally tall original owner. This masterpiece has been a centerpiece of the prestigious Ray and Bonnie Kinney Collection, benefiting from a legacy of preservation that includes ownership by the famed Fauvist painter André Derain. Combining documented factory history with an upcoming engine rebuild by Leydon Restorations, it stands as a testament to the purity and elegance of the pre-war era.
Aravis-Inspired Silhouette with Unique D’Ieteren Details
The exterior of this Bugatti is a visual triumph, mirroring the sharply raked windscreen and dramatically sloped tail of the factory Aravis design while introducing its own distinctive character. Finished in a sophisticated two-tone scheme of black with maroon accents, the coachwork highlights the stretched proportions of the cabin and the sleek, low-profile folding canvas top. Unlike the standard factory bodies, this Belgian one-off features unique hardware and roll-up windows that provide a refined grand touring experience. Every curve of the hand-sculpted aluminum panels remains faithful to the original 1938 delivery, preserved by enthusiasts who recognized the irreplaceable value of its one-of-a-kind design.
Bespoke Three-Seater Configuration and Original Luggage
Inside the cabin, the interior space is characterized by its rare three-seater layout and an increased longitudinal scale tailored for driver comfort. The cockpit has been tastefully retrimmed to match its concours-level exterior, utilizing premium materials that respect the craftsmanship of the late 1930s. A standout feature of this particular chassis is the inclusion of its original, unrestored fitted luggage, a miracle of survival that adds immense provenance to the vehicle. The dashboard remains a focal point of period-correct instrumentation, offering the driver a direct connection to the mechanical soul of the car while surrounded by the luxury of a custom-commissioned Belgian interior.
Twin-Cam Straight-Eight Precision and Mechanical Purity
Under the long, louvred hood sits the heart of the marque: a 3.3-liter twin-cam straight-eight engine that delivers effortless power and a signature mechanical symphony. This sophisticated powerplant produces 135 hp / 137 PS and 184 lb-ft / 250 Nm, providing the Type 57 with the high-speed touring capabilities that made it a favorite among Europe’s elite. The car retains its original engine and chassis frame, a level of mechanical purity rarely seen in pre-war classics. Recent stewardship has seen the car properly tended to by specialists, with a comprehensive engine rebuild nearing completion to ensure the Bugatti performs with the same vigor it displayed on the roads of France and Belgium in 1938.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3L Twin-Cam Straight-Eight |
| Output | 135 hp / 184 lb-ft |
| Coachbuilder | D’Ieteren (Belgium) |
| Chassis Number | 57589 |
| Body Style | Aravis-Inspired Cabriolet |
| Documentation | Factory Build Sheets & D’Ieteren Album |
| Provenance | André Derain / Ray & Bonnie Kinney |
| Notable Extras | Original Unrestored Fitted Luggage |
A Blue-Chip Investment Among Coachbuilt Classics
In the competitive world of pre-war collecting, the Bugatti Type 57 remains the gold standard, often outshining contemporary offerings from Delahaye or Talbot-Lago. This D’Ieteren Cabriolet occupies a unique market niche due to its “one-of-one” status and its direct visual link to the legendary Aravis style. While many Type 57s have been rebodied or restored beyond their original specifications, chassis 57589 is prized for its high level of component retention. Collectors view such “purity” cars as safer long-term investments, especially when accompanied by period photographs and a documented chain of ownership that includes some of the most respected names in the Bugatti community.
Preservation and Legacy of Marque Specialist Care
Owning a Type 57 of this caliber involves a commitment to preserving an artifact of industrial art. Throughout its life, this Bugatti has been maintained by the most respected specialists in the field, including Jim Stranberg, Scott Sargent, and Leydon Restorations. This consistent expert care ensures that the car remains roadworthy for international rallies while maintaining its “best-in-class” potential for the concours lawn. The availability of original factory build sheets and a rare D’Ieteren photo album provides the owner with an unparalleled historical record, simplifying the task of maintaining its authenticity for future generations of Bugattistes.
The Crowning Achievement of the Type 57 Era
The 1938 Bugatti Type 57 Cabriolet by D’Ieteren is a remarkable survivor that bridges the gap between automotive history and fine art. Its combination of unique Belgian coachwork, F1-inspired engineering, and fascinating provenance makes it one of the most compelling Bugattis to come to market in recent years. Whether it is being admired for its flowing silhouette at the Villa d’Este or being driven on a cross-country rally, this car commands respect and admiration. As a standout offering from the Ray and Bonnie Kinney Collection, it represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure a documented, one-off icon that remains as striking today as it was in 1938.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
