Presidents, Popes, Potentates

Bugatti 1939 On City Street

After being sold out of the Imperial Garage of the Shah of Iran in 1959 for a about US$275, the 1939 Bugatti by Vanvooren was driven throughout Europe by the fortunate new owner. Considered merely a “used car” at the time, the car was protected from body damage by a crude bumper and unattractive bright metal strips on the front fenders. Photograph courtesy of Jack Braam Ruben.