Equipment
RHD. Folding windshield, single rear spare, 8 spoke alloy wheels. Known history from new except for the not uncommon gap during WWII. Raced at LeMans in 1934 by Charles Brunet and Freddie Zehender and running fifth until an accident about midnight put it out. Restored by Friderich in the late 50s where the original but rather ordinary Roadster Luxe body was swapped for the lovely, swoopy Jean Bugatti Roadster coachwork from 55218, also being restored at the same time. Eventually bought by Bill Serri and being restored by Paul Russell & Co at the time Serri died. Sold by the Serri estate loosely assembled in 2003.
Market commentary
It brought Euros 1,680,250 when sold by Christies at Retromobile in 2003, $1,820,620 in the decidedly more healthy dollars of the time. Since then the assembly has been tightened up by Novo Restauration in France, in other words completely gone through mechanically to the highest standards and is in perfect running order but retaining the patina of its aged Friderich restoration from nearly a half century ago. A charming and beautiful automobile of the highest quality, ready to be driven and enjoyed in all the events where it will be eagerly accepted and anticipated. To a collector, U.S. or European, who wants one of the best and most beautiful Bugattis ever this is full value for money.