Bugatti has been a manufacturer of fine automobiles for over a century. Ettore Bugatti felt his designs were pristine, becoming known as “pur-sang” or “thoroughbred” cars. Beginning in 1913 Bugatti developed the Type 23. Originally the Type 23 was a 2-valve model with a 2550 mm (100.4 in) wheelbase, with a boat-tail body. It had an oval radiator. After World War 1 Bugatti capitalized on the successes the Type 13 had in racing and created the Type 23 “Brescia Tourer”. It used the Brescia engine, multi-valve, and Bugatti transformed the manufacturing process, allowing for production of over 2000 examples created between 1920 and 1926, setting a record for being the first multi-valve car created under full-production.
Out of the 2000+ Brescia Tourers created, the 1922 Bugatti Type 23 Brescia Roadster is by far the most popular with collectors. With very few left in existence the value of one in pristine condition is almost incalculable. A 1922 Bugatti Type 23 Brescia Roadster, even in poor condition, is valued at over $1million US dollars! The Brescia Roadster is by far one of the most beautiful automobiles designed. It is a highly prized collectors item, and several can be found not only in private collections, but also in automotive museums, not only in France but around the world.
