Guys,
How hard is a T35 to drive, how reliable are they to own and use? I dream about one day being able to go for a country drive in one, but I think the reality might not be as enjoyable as the dream.
Erik

I have no idea, but this much I can tell you, I have yet to hear anyone expressing disappointment after losing their Bugatti virginity.

To drive and/or own a T35 is a most magnificent quest - I wish you the best of luck. I really mean that.

Kind Regards
Johan

My first (and only) ride in a type 40 is indeed an unforgetable one. The only thing I would suggest is: Live your dream!

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Vive la Marque !!

I have had rides in lots of Bugattis, including GP Bugattis, but also including a 4-wheel drift in a T44 Saloon, and 150 kph in a T54/57 (actually my first ride). I must say it does attract, and driving should even more so. Of course driving any Bugatti (except for those with a Cotal gearbox, the T52 and T56) involves double de-clutching, but this should not be a problem after some getting used to.

In general, Bugattis, and more so the GP's, are agile and responsive, and can be driven very easily in modern-day traffic (though you would find that somewhat slow at times, when you ride Bugattis).

However, nobody can assure you that you will like it.

For example, I always was quite fond of and interested in flying, so I took a (first - try-out) flying lesson. It turned out to be much less exciting than I had thought, difference with a Boeing 747 is only that you have a front view (though the side view is still more interesting). G-forces and acceleration are much more in an automobile.

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www.BugattiPage.com
www.BugattiRevue.com
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Driving pre-war cars is of course not the same as driving your contemporary road car. You have to develop a certain feeling for the car. Gearboxes without synchromesh require a bit sensitivity for example. But that is what I think is the fun of driving an oldtimer. Unfortunately I have no experience with driving Bugattis though.

Regards, Jeroen

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Octagon Fox, specialist in new and rare Bugatti books
www.octagonfox.com
twitter: @octagonfox

I have driven many miles in Bugattis,Almost every model [even T52 ! and my own T56 ] The best for me is the T37.A wonderful experience and not to be missed.Nobody could be disappointed.

Go join a Bugatti club and befriend an enthusiast or two within the club. Help them clean / prep the Bugatti and in return negotiate for a ride once they know you. It's the best way to get a ride in one.

To drive one? Fun -- without question. But start saving your money now. Or marry someone who has one in the family.

One thing to be careful of is your elbows -- that rear tire is rather close when you are running without fenders. Be forwarned as you can get some nasty stuff flying off the front wheels. And be prepared to eat a few bugs. Undoubtedly you will be smiling and will only notice them after they smack yourself.

As for the GP iterations? 35's are fun. 51's are better. But I agree the 37A's might be the best for someone who drives one on a regular basis.

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me: Mark - home: Gilbert, Arizona now

Haha thanks Mark and everyone else for writing. Sounds like fun!
Erik