Jacob's Bugatti Pages
 

BUGATTITYPE68
 

The 1942, Type 68B minicar prototype
Photo: Jacob Munkhammar, Reference

HISTORY

This little minicar that Ettore designed while in Paris during WW2, had a wonderful little supercharged 318cc four cylinder, four valved per cylinder engine that is a marvel for anyone mechanically inclined.
I have held a 16 valve Type 68 cylinder head - in brass! - in my hand, and it is the most fascinating little piece of engineering. (Type 68 and Type 73 are the only Bugattis - in Ettore's time - to feature detachable cylinder head.)

Only one Type 68 prototype car was built, but Ettore also made sketches for a Type 68 with a "Atlantic" inspired coupe body. Now that would be a FIAT Topolino-killer!!!

A small number of engines was built and several have survived.
To hide Bugatti's micro car plans, the engine and transmission was tested in a specially built motorcycle!

TECHNICAL DATA


This picture not only shows the 16-valve engine top of Type 68 (right), but also illustrates the size span of Bugatti's creations. Left is a carburettor from the 16-cylinder Type 45.
Photo: Jacob Munkhammar, Reference

Model: Type 68Type 68B
Year designed: 1940 1945
Engine type: 4 cyl. in-line, 2 over-head cams
4 valves/cyl. 2 valves/cyl.
Engine size: 318cc (45x50) 369.5cc (48.5x50)
Supercharger: front mounted side mounted
Ignition: 4 contact breakers, 4 coils (no distributor)
Drive: shaft
Note: detachable cylinder head

MUSEUM PIECES


 
The accuracy of the above information is not guaranteed. However, the information is compiled with the sincerest intentions of accuracy. Corrections, comments and additions are gladly received!
This is copyrighted material! You may NOT use the text without expressed permission from the author. Photographs are copyright of the respective photographer and used with permission.
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Editor: Jacob Munkhammar.     Design: MUNKHAMMAR.     Page updated: 5/2-98.