The 50 T
The 50 T was modeled on the 46 and had the same chassis but with a shorter wheelbase, 10 feet 2 inches (3.10 m) as against 11 feet 6 inches ( 3.50 m). Sixty-five of them were built between 1930 and 1934, the majority of which had short chassis. It differed from the 46 only in the suspension and a few other details. The 50 did not enjoy much racing success and it seem that it was heavily criticized by its drivers for its poor road holding. It was not a successful model and stands as one of Bugatti’s few failures. The Type 57 appeared at the Paris Motor Show of 1933 and deliveries to customers began in 1934. It also had a ‘personal’ history, being to a great extent designed by Jean Bugatti, Ettore’s son who died whilst testinga Type 57 G that was to race in the La Baule G.P. The engine had twin overhead camshafts and a dry single plate clutch. Below the semi-elliptic leaf-spring front suspension there was a flexible mounting to prevent the steering being jolted. Contrary to Jean’s advice at had right hand drive.
In 1936, after 300 units had already been produced , the Type 57’s engine was mounted on four rubber supports, the single body carburetor was replaced by a double body carburetor, hydraulic brakes were fitted (Lockheed) and the De Ram Allinquant telescopic shock absorbers. The most important modification was the addition of a supercharger. Maximum power rose from 130 bhp at 4,500 revs to 160 bhp at 5,000 revs and the maximum speed increased from 90-93 mph to 102-106 mph. A total of 750 57s were produced.