In the annals of automotive history, certain vehicles transcend mere machinery to become symbols of an era. Among these is the 1925 Bugatti Type 22 Brescia Roadster, an iconic model whose journey from the picturesque Lago Maggiore to the hallowed halls of the Mullin Museum is as captivating as the car itself.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Bugatti Type 22 Brescia Roadster
The Bugatti Type 22 Brescia Roadster, crafted in the Roaring Twenties, epitomizes the pinnacle of early 20th-century automotive engineering. The Brescia variant of the Type 22 was designed for the discerning enthusiast, combining elegance with performance. With a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine, this roadster was capable of reaching speeds nearing 100 miles per hour—an impressive feat for its time. Such performance was not just a marvel of engineering but a testament to Bugatti’s relentless pursuit of speed and innovation.
An Unexpected Submersion: The Roadster’s Dive into Lago Maggiore
The story of this particular Type 22 Brescia Roadster takes a dramatic turn in 1935. Originally registered at a French address, the roadster’s fate changed dramatically when it plunged into the waters of Lago Maggiore. Straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy, this serene lake became the unassuming resting place for the roadster for a staggering 73 years.
The circumstances of this submersion remain shrouded in mystery. Was it an accident, or did it symbolize a deeper change in fortune for the car’s owner? Regardless, the car’s time beneath the lake’s surface is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of history and how even the most revered artifacts can slip into obscurity.
A Game of Chance: From René Dreyfus to Adalbert Bodé
Before its unexpected dive, the Type 22 Brescia Roadster was owned by none other than René Dreyfus, a notable Grand Prix driver renowned for his skill and flair. The roadster’s transfer of ownership in 1934 is a story worthy of its own legend. In a twist that seems almost poetic, Dreyfus reportedly lost the car in a drunken poker game to the Swiss playboy Adalbert Bodé.
This intriguing detail adds a layer of intrigue to the roadster’s history. The notion of a high-stakes poker game deciding the fate of such a valuable car is a testament to the era’s blend of glamour and unpredictability. Bodé’s acquisition of the roadster, while seemingly a stroke of fortune, would soon lead the car to its unexpected watery grave.
The Roadster’s Rediscovery and Its Journey to the Mullin Museum
The Type 22 Brescia Roadster remained submerged until its dramatic recovery in 2009. After 73 years resting beneath the placid surface of Lago Maggiore, the car was retrieved, its story of submersion now becoming a captivating chapter in its storied history. The roadster’s rediscovery was not just a remarkable feat of salvage but also a poignant moment for automotive enthusiasts and historians alike, who were eager to learn more about this fascinating vehicle.
The car was subsequently transferred to the Mullin Museum, where it now resides in its unaltered state. The museum, renowned for its collection of French automobiles, provides a fitting home for this exceptional piece of automotive heritage. The decision to keep the Type 22 Brescia Roadster in its unrestored condition adds a layer of authenticity and historical integrity. Visitors to the museum can appreciate the car not only for its design and performance but also for the remarkable journey it has undertaken.
A Legacy Preserved: The Impact of the Bugatti Type 22 Brescia Roadster
The Bugatti Type 22 Brescia Roadster’s story is a testament to the rich tapestry of automotive history. From its engineering excellence to its dramatic submersion and eventual rediscovery, the roadster embodies the highs and lows of early 20th-century motoring. The preservation of the car in its unrestored state at the Mullin Museum ensures that its legacy continues to inspire and captivate.
This extraordinary vehicle is more than just a relic of a bygone era; it is a symbol of the indomitable spirit of automotive innovation and the unpredictable nature of history. As visitors to the Mullin Museum gaze upon the Type 22 Brescia Roadster, they are not just witnessing a piece of machinery but are also connecting with a story that spans decades and continents.
In celebrating the Bugatti Type 22 Brescia Roadster, we are reminded of the enduring allure of classic automobiles and the stories they carry with them. This remarkable roadster, from its dazzling performance to its serene resting place in Lago Maggiore, continues to enchant and inspire those who encounter it, ensuring that its legacy will remain alive for generations to come.
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