Bugatti Type 32
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5 units (1 prototype + 4 race-ready)[1]
| Bugatti Type 32 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Automobiles Ettore Bugatti |
| Production | 1923 5 units (1 prototype + 4 race-ready)[1] |
| Assembly | France: Molsheim-Dorlisheim, Alsace (Usine Bugatti de Molsheim) |
| Designer | Ettore Bugatti |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Racing car, Formula Libre |
| Body style | Underslug type |
| Related | Type 57G |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 2.0 L (1991 cc/121 in³) straight-8 engine |
| Transmission | 3-speed + reverse |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 1994 mm |
| Width | 1052 mm |
| Curb weight | est. 650 kg |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Bugatti Type 30 |
| Successor | Bugatti Type 35 |
The Bugatti Type 32, commonly called the Tank de Tours, was a streamlined racing car built in 1923. It was built to compete in the French Grand Prix, which was held on July 2 in Tours on the same year.[2][3]
The nickname of the car comes from its particular shape, which resembles battle tanks of its era,[a] as well as the location of the Grand Prix. Another Bugatti model that earned the nickname "Tank" for its design and aerodynamics was the 57G Tank from 1936.[4][5]
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Designed especially for the 1923 French Grand Prix in Tours, this original car by Ettore Bugatti was designed to be simple and quickly assembled.
The first prototype with an aerodynamic aluminium body was built in six months around the 1,991cc in-line 8-cylinder engine used in prior Bugatti Type 30. The engine rated 90 hp for the competition and weighted for approximately 650 kg.
Design
Compared to the previous competition model, the Type 29,[b] the Type 32 only shared the motorization with the previous model.
Type 32 was small in size, with a wheelbase of 1,994m, like the Bugatti Type 13. Five cars of Type 32 were produced. In addition to the prototype, four racing capable cars were made,
Each model came with the 2.0 L (1991 cc/121 in³) straight-8 engine based on that in the Type 30. It was a longitudinal engine with eight cylinders in line and five bearings with main bearings on the crankshaft. It had 3 valves per cylinder, two intake and one discharge, operated by a single camshaft Brakes hydraulically actuated at the front and mechanically actuated (metal cable) at the rear.[6][7][8]
The Type 32 was the first Bugatti to be fitted with roller-bearing big ends in order to improve the bottom-end reliability.[c]
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 a hydraulic front brake actuation.[9]
Despite the low center of gravity, its grip on the road was not good. The reason for this was due to its aerodynamics being similar to that of a wing profile, which meant that the vehicle could tend to rise at high speeds. Also, its short wheelbase contributed to the problem.
Specifications
- Track: 41.4 in (1052 mm)
- Power: 90 hp (67 kW)
