Exceptional Bugatti Grand Prix at The Scottsdale Auctions

Exceptional Bugatti Grand Prix at The Scottsdale Auctions

This Type 35 Grand Prix, chassis 4487, was sold new in Paris to American Standard Oil heir, Wallis C. Bird. 

Mr. Bird garaged the car at his famed “Farnsworth” mansion in Long Island, New York, which he had recently purchased.

He raced the Type 35 on several occasions in ARCA events on the East Coast (Mr. Bird’s ARCA racing plaque is still affixed to the dash) before passing away in 1941 in an aviation accident.

The Bugatti sat among his stable of exotic automobiles until 1961, when his wife, Marjorie Winiferd Bird, passed away. Following her death, the Bird estate held the “Car Auction of the Century” where 4487 was purchased by pioneering collector, Henry Austin Clark.

The current owner purchased the car from Clark over 35 years ago and has been in his loving care ever since.

With just three owners from new and in exemplary condition, 4487 represents the purest expression of the original Type 35 Grand Prix.

Finished in French Racing Blue, it is a sensational example retaining its original chassis, bodywork, engine, and distinctive early-production features.

Gooding & CompanyThe Scottsdale AuctionsJanuary 20 & 21, 2017


Related Market and Auction Articles

4,930 articles