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In the elite circles of classic car collectors, few names resonate like Ralph Lauren’s, especially when discussing his possession of one of the world’s rarest automobiles—the 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic. This car, one of only three survivors of its kind, epitomizes the zenith of Art Deco automotive design and now carries an estimated value exceeding $100 million.
Known as the “Pope Atlantic” after its first owner, British tennis player Richard B. Pope, this particular chassis has had a colorful history before ending up in the hands of fashion mogul Ralph Lauren. After changing hands several times through the decades, Lauren acquired the vehicle in 1988 and undertook a comprehensive restoration to bring it back to its original grandeur.
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The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic stands out not only for its historical significance and mechanical artistry but also for its dramatic aesthetics. Originally finished in Rich Sapphire Blue, Lauren chose to repaint the car black, complementing its sleek, low stance and opulent curves that make it a paragon of luxury and style.
This car’s journey through time has been marked by meticulous care and admiration. Under Lauren’s stewardship, it won the prestigious “Best in Show” at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in 2013, a testament to its flawless restoration and enduring allure. The restoration itself was no small feat, requiring over 9,600 hours of labor spread over two years, executed by Paul Russell of Essex, Massachusetts.
Aside from its aesthetic and historical value, the Bugatti’s technical specs are equally impressive. It features a 3.3-liter inline-eight engine, delivering 210 horsepower through a four-speed manual transmission, a remarkable feat for its time.
Currently housed in Lauren’s extensive car collection, valued at over $600 million, the Bugatti 57SC Atlantic is more than just a car; it is a piece of automotive history, a work of art on wheels. As one of the most exclusive cars ever made, it encapsulates a legacy that transcends its era and continues to awe and inspire car enthusiasts around the world.
