The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Bugatti Type 51 Grand Prix is a historic race car that was produced by the legendary French automaker Bugatti between 1931 and 1935. This vehicle has an iconic design and is considered one of the most advanced and powerful cars of its era. The Type 51 was created as an evolution of the Type 35, which was a successful racing machine in the late 1920s and early 1930s. In this description, we will focus on the technical details of the Bugatti Type 51 Grand Prix 1933.
The Bugatti Type 51 Grand Prix 1933 features a powerful 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that was designed by Ettore Bugatti himself. The engine is capable of producing up to 160 horsepower, which was a significant increase in power compared to the Type 35. This engine was also equipped with a Roots-type supercharger, which helped to increase its power output and performance.
The Type 51 was built on a lightweight, yet sturdy, ladder-type frame that was made of steel. The suspension system of the Type 51 was an advanced design for its time, featuring front and rear semi-elliptic leaf springs, coupled with hydraulic shock absorbers. The Type 51 Grand Prix also featured a four-speed manual transmission that was mounted on the rear axle, giving it a perfect weight distribution.
The Type 51's bodywork was designed by Ettore's son, Jean Bugatti, and was characterized by its aerodynamic lines and elegant curves. The bodywork was made of lightweight aluminum, which helped to reduce the weight of the vehicle and improve its top speed. The Type 51's overall design was inspired by aviation technology, which was evident in its styling details, such as the open wheel arches, pointed grille, and sleek bodywork.
In terms of performance, the Bugatti Type 51 Grand Prix 1933 had a top speed of around 150 mph. This made it one of the fastest race cars of its time and allowed it to dominate the racing circuits of Europe. The Type 51 also had exceptional handling, thanks to its lightweight construction and advanced suspension system.
In conclusion, the Bugatti Type 51 Grand Prix 1933 is a stunning race car that was ahead of its time in terms of technology, design, and performance. Its powerful engine, lightweight construction, and advanced suspension system made it a dominant force on the racing circuits of Europe in the 1930s. Even today, the Type 51 remains an icon of automotive design and engineering, and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Milestones
- The Bugatti Type 51 was unveiled at the Paris Auto Salon in October 1931. - The first Type 51 chassis was completed in November 1931, with production commencing in 1932. - The Type 51 was a successor to the Type 35 and featured a similar chassis design but with a new 2.3-liter straight-eight engine. - The Type 51 made its racing debut at Monaco in April 1931, with Achille Varzi finishing in 4th place. - The Type 51 went on to win the first race it entered, the Tunis Grand Prix, with Marcel Lehoux at the wheel. - In the 1933 Grand Prix season, the Type 51 was dominant, with wins at the Monaco Grand Prix, the French Grand Prix, and the Spanish Grand Prix. - The Type 51 was driven by numerous famous racing drivers, including Varzi, Lehoux, Tazio Nuvolari, Louis Chiron, and Robert Benoist. - Production of the Type 51 ceased in 1934, with a total of 40 examples being produced.Technical
- Engine: 2.3-liter inline-eight - Power: 160 horsepower - Top speed: 137 mph - Transmission: Four-speed manual - Suspension: Independent front suspension with quarter-elliptic springs, rigid axle with reversed quarter-elliptic springs at rear - Brakes: Four-wheel drum brakes - Wheelbase: 2,400 mm (94.5 in) - Length: 3,860 mm (152.4 in) - Width: 1,500 mm (59.1 in) - Curb weight: 750 kg (1,650 lb) - Body style: Two-seat open-top roadster - Production: 40 units - Racing success: 1933 Monaco Grand Prix winner, 1933 French Grand Prix winner, several other notable racing wins.SUPERMIND TRIVIA