Discovery areas: “under the bonnet”
Three areas lift the lid on the lives of cars in the collections, issues of conservation and mechanical developments.
The Engine Hall
In a darkened room, model reproductions illustrate the development of engines from the 1880s and innovations introduced by carmakers of the 20th century. Interactive presentations, such as a 3D film with sound effects, help you understand the mechanics and explain how each engine works. A big screen shows a 3D film in three languages about the incredible 16 cylinder engine of the Bugatti Veyron Royale.
The restoration process varies from simply restoring metals, leather and textiles to fully dismantling a vehicle down to its component parts for a full overhaul, sometimes even allowing the vehicle to get back on the road. The exhibition shows an extreme example, building the chassis of a Bugatti Royale and reconstructing missing bodywork. The most recent car to be restored by the Museum, the fabulous Mercedes Benz 600 Pullman, is on display.
The life of a car in the collection
This is illustrated by a Bugatti 57S, a car from Ettore and Jean Bugatti’s first large-scale production in 1939. It has been partially dismantled to show the main steps in the life of this car: from design through construction, use, various owners and its eventual arrival at the Museum.