Bugatti Type 52 1927-1936
The Bugatti Type 52 was a half-scale Bugatti Type 35 electric racing car for children.
About 90 examples were produced at the Molsheim factory between 1927 and 1936, and the cars were frequently used both as playthings and for more serious racing among the children of the European elite. The number 52 was probably given by the late Hugh Conway and was never used by the factory. The factory always referred the car as Baby.
The first example of a Type 52 was built for Ettore's son, five-year-old Roland, and was first shown at an exhibition in Milan.
The Type 52 was powered by a single 12 volt electric motor with front and reverse. Braking was done by way of expanding wooden shoes at the front and rear drums.
The car was originally just 1200 mm (47.2 in) between the wheels, but this was expanded to 1350 mm (53.1 in) when it was found that even children had difficulty with leg room. The car was about 1800mm long overall with a 625 mm (24.6 in) track width.
Specifications
Half scale children’s electric GP car
Identifying Features:
Half scale of T35. Later length increased to provide more leg room. Early cars have 1.22 m wheelbase and 16 louvre bonnet, later cars (with increased leg room) have 1.32m wheel base with a 21 louvre bonnet.
Years Made
Approx 1927-1936.
Number Made:
Approx 500
Engine:
12 volt electric motor geared to rear axle
Clutch:
None, direct control
Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 1.22m originally, later 1.32.
Track: 0.625m
Brakes:
Expanding wooden shoes
Wheels:
Type: Cast Alloy
Tyre size: 355 x 45