Is this the most beautiful
Bugatti ever built?
Only one single example of the Bugatti Type 57 Aérolithe was ever built – vanishing between 1936 and 1939, a fact that has greatly enhanced its legendary status. We take a close look at its replica, courtesy of the Perridon Collection.
Art Deco & aerodynamics
Location: The Perridon Collection
Featured Car: Bugatti Type 57 Aérolithe
Scarce and speedy as its namesake – an "aerolithe" is an old word for a meteor – the Type 57 Aérolithe is a sight to behold. Initially created for the 1935 Paris Motor Show, the incredible car was lost in the early 20th century. But its spirit lives on: Directly derived from the unique prototype, the Type 57C Atlantic coupés featured Jean Bugatti's distinctive dorsal ridge.
It was born from necessity: The Aérolithe's body, then built on chassis 57104, used Elektron, an alloy of 90% magnesium and 10% aluminium, valued for its lightness and strength but impossible to weld at the time. So? Jean Bugatti riveted the panels together, creating one of the most iconic design signatures in automotive history. And at the Perridon Collection, this unique antetype is honoured by a meticulously crafted replica.
