Henrique Lehrfeld E O Bugatti 35B

The Portuguese driver Henrique Lehrfeld shook up the peaceful Portuguese automobile world in April 1930 by bringing to Lisbon a Bugatti Grand Prix similar to those that dominated most European racings at that time. It was a Type 35C, equipped with an 8-cylinder in-line engine, 2.0- liter capacity, with compressor, which had been purchased by Lehrfeld from Guy Bouriat, a fabulous character who experienced the French brand's adventure like few others. In Paris, Lehrfeld frequented the world of motor racing and met Bouriat, who immediately identified him as a potential customer. Lehrfeld cultivated relationships with some of the main French drivers of the time and even with Ettore Bugatti himself, with whom he developed some closeness. However, a few weeks after the arrival of the 35C, Lehrfeld would import a Bugatti 35B, the only one that came to Portugal – and which is still preserved in the safe hands of the Caramulo Museum. It is these two cars – with a natural focus on the second one - as well as the personality of Henrique Lehrfeld, that this book is about.