In 1904, Peugeot debuted the Type 69 Bébé at the Paris Motor Show. It weighed a mere 770 lbs., measured just 110" long, and was powered by a single-cylinder, 652 cc engine. The Bébé proved immensely popular, representing 80% of Peugeot’s production at the time.

In 1911, Ettore Bugatti endeavored to create a lightweight yet robust car of similar size. Initially designed for the German manufacturer Wanderer, the Bugatti-designed Bébé was built under license by Peugeot beginning in 1913. This model became known as the Type BP1 and featured a more powerful Peugeot-designed 856 cc four-cylinder T-head engine as well as reversed quarter-elliptical leaf spring rear suspension, a characteristic feature of Bugatti automobiles. In total, Peugeot produced 3,095 units, making it the firm’s first model to eclipse the 3,000-unit threshold.

The Type BP1 two-seat tourer offered here was previously owned by an English collector and is accompanied by a Veteran Car Club of Great Britain Certificate of Date from October 1997, which confirms that it was produced in 1913. Acquired by the Mullin Collection in 2009 via Dutch classic car dealer Jack Braam Ruben, this Bébé is attractively finished in dark blue with red trim and wheels, and is accessorized with a Peugeot lion mascot, horn, and period lighting.

Eligible for events organized by numerous veteran car clubs and even Bugatti Owners’ Club gatherings, the BP1 Bébé represents a fascinating chapter in pre-WWI French automotive history and remains the most accessible way to acquire a Bugatti-designed classic.

*Please note that all of the Lots in this Auction have been in long-term static storage at the Mullin Automotive Museum and may not be currently operational. They will require mechanical attention and in some cases significant restoration prior to any road use.