"BUGATTI" - 1936 TYPE 57 SC ATLANTIC COUPE

One of the most bizarre, elusive and expensive of cars is the "Bugatti" - 1936 Type 57 SC Atlantic Coupe. With its low stance, powerful engine, lightweight construction, 123 mph (200 kph) top speed and influential teardrop body, many believe this is the ultimate Bugatti and the first super car ever made.

 Momentum behind the style was structured by a design concept of incorporating Electron, an alloy of magnesium and aluminum from IG Farben of Germany, in the design. Though it is strong, and up to one third the weight of aluminum, it is also highly flammable thus welding was not possible. This meant that each panel had to be riveted into place which posed a particular problem for traditional design. Therefore, Jean incorporated the rivet's aesthetic into the wings of the car and created a telling combination of function and form.

As the first car to bear fins, the silver Electron Aerolithe Prototype debuted as a possible sport model of the "Bugatti" - 1936 Type 57 SC Atlantic Coupe at the 1935 Paris Motor Show. As much of a sensation as the car must have been, it only drew three orders. By the time production commenced in 1936, standard aluminum was chosen over the flammable electron and the specially lowered "Bugatti" - 1936 Type 57 SC Atlantic Coupe chassis, with its smaller, V-shaped radiator was used.