Retro Ride: The Bugnotti

In the last decade, we’ve seen a retro trend emerge in automotive design. Classic forms and model lines from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s are returning with a updated blend of new and old. Mainstream automakers have resurrected their old brands.

Delahaye USA, an automaker that is decidedly not-so-mainstream, is hand-crafting reproductions and redesigns of some of the most beautiful cars in automotive history.

The original automaker Delahaye GFA dates back to early in the 20th century, where it was one of several French carrossiers (custom coachbuilders) The company built vehicles until as late as 1954.

In 2007, Terry Cook founded Delahaye USA out of a love for this golden era of vehicle design. The descriminating customer can buy a reproduction of one of these elegant vehicles, redesigned with modern powerplants and interiors.

In 2008, Terry created the “Bugnotti”, a ground-up custom build designed by hot rod builder Chip Foose. The car is heavily influenced by mid-30s Delahaye vehicles, as well as Bugattis of the same era. It is simply unearthly. Under the hood sits and GM LS1 V8 and a 4L60E automatic transmission.

As for the asymmetrical fender skirts (one side is black and the other is chromed), Terry like both designs, and says “you can only see one side at a time”.

photos: Delahaye USA