Home»All Photographs»Automobiles As Art 1910s (free downloads)»1913 Type 15 Bugatti Carrosserie Torpedo

Bugattis are one of the most-sought-after brand of cars in the world, and it's easy to see why. Not only are they stylish, but they fast earned a reputation for their outstanding performance.

This 1913 Type 15 Bugatti Carrosserie Torpedo "was a refinement of the first production Bugatti, the Type 13, which appeared in 1910," according to the Danville, Calif.-based Blackhawk Automotive Museum, where this are vehicle is displayed.

"These tiny cars were part of the 8-valve series built between 1910 and 1920 and included the Type 13, 15, 17, 22 and 23," Blackhawk notes. "Styles included 2-, 3- and 4-passenger open or closed bodies. The Bugatti Trust {of} Prescott Hill, Gotherington, Cheltenhem, England has records validating that only 435 cars in the 8-valve series were constructed during the 10-year period."

One thing about Blackhawk is that it provides plenty of information on displays for visitors.

"Early Bugattis — dubbed 'petit pur-sang' or little thoroughbred for Ettore Bugatti's love of horses — established a reputation for being quite successful in track competitions, hill climbs and other motor-racing events," Bugatti said.

Blackhawk said Ettore Bugatti created a new breed of small car typified by excellent performance and style that remains unique today.

"The oval-shaped radiator first appeared in the 1913-1914 Bugatti Data Catalogue, which also contains race results up to October 1913," Blackhawk states. ""This radiator shape evolved into the 'horse-collar' radiator, which remains one of the marquee's strongest trademarks. "In 1914, the Types 15 and 17 became the Types 22 and 23, respectively."

ENGINE
4 cylinders, SOHC
2.56" bore; 3.94" stroke
80.95 cubic inch (1327 cc)
15 bhp. @ 2500 rpm. (estimated)

BODY/COACHBUILDER
Carrosserie Chauvet
Le Vallois, France

MANUFACTURER
Automobiles E. Bugatti
Molsheim, France