You don’t stumble across a 1928 Bugatti Type 44 Profilé by Gangloff without digging into its past. This one doesn’t just wear history, it carries it. From its aerodynamic coachwork to its chain of owners, the car tells a story that spans nearly a century.
1928 Bugatti Type 44 Profilé Coachwork by Gangloff
The body was shaped in Colmar by Gangloff, one of the few to wear the ‘Aérodynamique’ profile. Compact and low-slung, it features a coupé silhouette with a raked windscreen. The styling leans toward sportiness without losing its pre-war elegance. It’s not a common sight on a Bugatti chassis.
Ownership History and Provenance
Chassis 44784 left Molsheim in November 1928 and was sold to Christy, Pangaud & Monestier of Lyon. It first registered in France in February 1929 under Jean Paul Prylli, a silk magnate with ties to London. The car changed hands several times through the 1930s, passing through racers, dealers, and club members.
Notable Transfers and Registrations
By 1934, it had been sold by Monestier again, with records noting it as the only Type 44 with ‘Aerodynamique’ in agency archives. It wore multiple French plates over the years, including “9367 QD 2” and “3318 RK 5”. Each registration marked a new chapter in its journey.
Restoration and Mechanical Work
Philippe Vernholes acquired the car in 1969 and began repairs. Henri Novo revived the engine, while Jean-Paul Monceau handled the coachwork. The body was repainted in Souffre Blanc and the interior retrimmed in green. Later owners included Nicolas Seydoux, Edgard Ben Soussan, and Peter Aeschliemann.
Recent Maintenance and Inspection
Over the past five years, the car received over £250,000 in maintenance. Ivan Dutton Limited and Maurice Ogier handled the work. The engine’s lower crankcase comes from chassis 44760, while the gearbox and rear axle trace to other 1928 Type 44s. The frame, stamped 683, matches a chassis near 44520.
Powertrain and Performance Details
Originally fitted with an eight-cylinder Type 44 engine, the car retains its mechanical identity. Though components have shifted over time, the drivetrain remains consistent with Bugatti’s engineering of the era. The 17 HP rating and layout reflect its original road-going intent.
Summary
This 1928 Bugatti Type 44 Profilé by Gangloff isn’t just a collector’s item. It’s a rolling archive of coachwork, ownership, and mechanical evolution. From its aerodynamic silhouette to its documented transfers, it stands as a rare example of Bugatti’s pre-war craftsmanship and Gangloff’s design legacy.
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Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
