From the first Ferrari to the last 2 CV

A few stories and facts about extraordinary automobiles. Just like us, every vehicle must meet certain requirements. The 2 CV had to be able to transport 2 farmers in wooden shoes and a 50 kg sack of potatoes at a maximum speed of 60 km/h. The 2 CV conquered both city and country with over 5 million cars sold.

The 540 K and the Bugatti 57 S were the queens of the road in the late 1930s. The conquest of the grand luxury automobile of that time in Europe was a neck-and-neck race between Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Hispano-Suiza, Mercedes, and Maybach. The DS-8 type with an 8-liter engine is the ultimate Maybach vehicle. With the Royale, Ettore Bugatti designed the most magnificent car in the world. Its 12-liter engine delivers 300 hp to the road; its weight of 3 tons and its price are all oversized. Only 6 cars of this model were built. The hood ornament features an elephant, crafted by Rembrandt Bugatti, Ettore's brother.

Starting in 1937, Bugatti reduced its product range to a single model, the Type 57. This car benefited from the publicity gained from its two victories in 1937 and 1939 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Type A from Luis Renault was an immediate success. Its lightweight and simplicity were convincing. He designed it at the age of 21 with his friend Edward Richet.