This week we sit down with Tim Dutton, the man behind Ivan Dutton, a specialist restoration business dedicated to pre-war Bugattis. Tim shares his deep-rooted family history in motorsport and Bugatti restoration, tracing back to his grandfather’s time as a riding mechanic at Brooklands.
https://www.duttonbugatti.co.uk/
The conversation covers the intricacies of restoring and maintaining these historic machines, from the engineering brilliance of Ettore Bugatti to the evolving world of vintage car ownership and racing. Tim explains the differences in Grand Prix Bugattis, the art of engine tuning, and the challenges of recreating rare parts with old-school techniques.
From driving a Bugatti 35 down to Monaco for the historic GP to racing in the Le Mans Classic at sunrise, Tim’s stories highlight the passion, skill, and dedication required to keep these legendary cars alive. They also touch on the evolution of historic racing, the impact of modern technology, and how the market for classic Bugattis has changed over the years.
If you love vintage motorsport, engineering craftsmanship, or just great car stories, there is lots here.
Show Notes:
00:00 The Allure of Le Mans and Vintage Racing
03:00 A Family Legacy in Bugatti Restoration
06:04 The Evolution of Motor Racing
08:57 Understanding Bugatti Ownership
12:05 The Artistic Vision Behind Bugatti
14:55 Restoration Processes and Challenges
18:04 Tailoring Cars to Drivers' Needs
21:13 Driving Experience of Vintage Grand Prix Cars
23:50 The Technical Aspects of Racing Bugattis
27:02 Modern Challenges in Restoration and Engineering
30:50 Understanding Advance / Retard in Classic Cars
32:36 Modernizing Pre-War Cars for Comfort
35:26 Restoration Challenges: Balancing Authenticity and Modern Standards
39:32 The Evolution of Machining and Restoration Techniques
42:43 Navigating the Market for Classic Bugatti Cars
51:40 Racing Dynamics: The Importance of Authenticity
56:12 Testing Classic Cars: Challenges and Solutions
59:15 Iconic Bugatti Models and Their Features
01:01:03 The Challenges of Racing on Open Roads
01:02:28 The Thrill of Trialing and Endurance Racing
01:04:55 The Bonds Formed Through Racing
01:06:32 The Art of Engine Turning and Car Restoration
01:09:10 The Dilemma of Concours Restoration
01:12:49 The Stories Behind Historic Cars
01:15:22 The Evolution of Bugatti and Its Legacy
01:20:34 The Future of Bugatti in Modern Automotive Culture
01:30:02 Memorable Driving Experiences and Dream Cars
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