Bugatti Type 32

The Bugatti Type 32

The Bugatti Type 32, commonly called the Tank de Tours, was a streamlined racing car built in 1923. Four examples were made, each with a 2.0 L (1991 cc/121 in³) straight-8 engine based on that in the Type 30. "The Tank" finished third in the ACF Grand Prix that year. This was the first Bugatti to be fitted with roller-bearing big ends in order to improve the bottom-end reliability (Bugatti was rather later than most manufacturers in the incorporation of a fully pressurised oil system, preferring a splash "spit and hope" delivery method). The Type 32 also broke new ground (for a racing Bug) by using a three-speed and reverse transaxle unit, the exceptionally short wheelbase and long straight-8 engine making a conventional gearbox difficult to accommodate. It also heralded an embrionic hydraulic front brake actuation.

Another tank-bodied Bugatti racer, the 1936 Type 57G, was much more successful.

Specifications:

• Wheelbase: 78.5 in (1994 mm)
• Track: 41.4 in (1052 mm)
• Power: 90 hp (67 kW)

Automobiles Ettore Bugatti, car timeline, 1910–1962 next »
Type	1910s										1920s										1930s										1940s										1950s										1960s			1963–86
	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2
Owner	Ettore Bugatti/Roland Bugatti																																																					Defunct
Company name	Automobiles Ettore Bugatti									Automobiles Ettore Bugatti																																												Defunct
Touring car													Type 30 / Type 49													Type 57
																				Type 46
Limousine																		Type 41 Royale
Roadster											Type 13 / Brescia Tourer												Type 55
Coupé																																										Type 101
Sports car	Type 13		Type 18																																													Type 252
Race car														Type 32	Type 35