An incredibly rare 1954 Bugatti Type 101 that formerly belonged to movie star and car collector Nicolas Cage will be offered for sale by Bonhams at its Chantilly Sale in France on Sept. 5. One of only a handful ever constructed, it’s the only example to feature coupé coachwork by Jean Antem, and is expected to bring in up to €1.8 million, or about $2 million.
According to the auction house Cage purchased the Bugatti around the time he starred in the 2000 film Gone in Sixty Seconds, a fitting homage to his love of fast cars. Due to overspending and financial woes Cage has been steadily selling off some of his high-end prized possessions for years.
Developed from Bugatti’s pre-war Type 57, only six Type 101s were ever built. The Cage car, chassis no. 101504, was first exhibited at the 1951 Paris Salon de l’Automobile. Prior to the actor’s acquisition it was in the collection of famed Casino magnate Bill Harrah.
“It’s exceptionally stylish, with a beautiful black over red colour combination which is reflected in its vibrant red leather interior,” notes Philip Kantor, Bonhams’ European Head of Motoring. “Bugatti built two types, the 101 and the 101C, and the latter, offered here, is equipped with a supercharger,” making it even more desirable.
It is not the only nor even the most costly Bugatti to have graced Cage’s collection. At one point he also owned a 1938 Bugatti Type T57C Atalante Coupe, in addition to several Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Rolls-Royces, among others.
Images courtesy of Bonhams
