In 1937, the Bugatti Type 57, driven by Jean-Pierre Wimille and Robert Benoist, ended Italy’s dry spell in the Le Mans 24 Hours race. This victory marked the first time in 11 years that a non-French car emerged as the winner of the endurance race.

Wimille and Benoist, who were not the favorites to win, piloted the Type 57 grand tourer, which was nicknamed ‘The Tank’ due to its new streamlined body design. The Alfa Romeo 8C, driven by Raymond Sommer and Giovanni Battista Guidotti, was initially expected to secure victory.

Throughout the race, the Bugatti, Alfa Romeo, and other competitors like Talbot and Delahaye engaged in an intense battle for the lead position. However, a tragic incident occurred when the 8C was involved in a fatal six-car pile-up, forcing it out of the race. Undeterred by the chaos, newcomer Wimille continued to perform exceptionally well and took the lead.

Despite facing challenges such as passing slower cars, a thunderstorm, and navigating through heavy mist during the night, Wimille maintained his position at the front while his competitors gradually dropped out of the race. Eventually, by 3 pm, Wimille and Benoist broke the distance record with an hour left to go. Only 17 out of the 49 participating cars finished the race, making it one of the most dramatic and challenging Le Mans races in history. The #2 Bugatti crossed the finish line seven laps ahead of its closest competitor.