Recently, a few of our dedicated gear heads visited the Mullin Automotive Museum in Oxnard, CA, where you can find the most expensive car in the world on display: the 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic.

Known as the Williamson car, it was purchased by the Mullin Automotive Museum from Dr. Peter Williamson in an auction. The undisclosed price is estimated to be between $30 and $40 million, and only two remaining models exist in the world.

This model is specifically known as Chassis #57374. It’s identifiable as the first production Atlantic from the lower, deeper set headlights. Rumor has it that this particular Atlantic was built with parts from the original Aerolithe prototype. The vehicle’s first lucky owner was Lord Philippe de Rothschild of London. He was the one who chose the color light blue color. So if you don’t like it, blame him. A later owner sent the car back to Bugatti three years after it was built to get a supercharger. Following the war, Los Angeles resident Bob Oliver came into ownership of Chassis #57374 and made several notable modifications. He changed the window sizes and repainted the car red! When it finally made its way around to Dr. Williamson in the late 70s, he spent a small fortune restoring the Bugatti to its original 1936 specifications. This Type 57SC Atlantic has been displayed for public viewing since 2003. The museum acquired the car in May 2010.

The Mullin Automotive Museum is also home to examples of the finest of historic French automobiles, as well as a surprising amount of vintage art deco pieces. Along with the most expensive car in the world, there are hundreds of other gorgeous vehicles including some Delahayes, Voisins, Hispano Suizas, Talbot-Lagos and, of course, a beautiful collection of Bugattis.

If you are any sort of a car fan, the Mullin Automotive Museum is definitely something you should check out if you’re anywhere near Southern California. It’s a great way to spend some free time and expand your knowledge about vintage, artistic and downright classy cars. There’s even furniture, sculptures and paintings to satisfy your artistic cravings.

We urge our car enthusiasts to take this trip to Oxnard but if you can’t make it, don’t worry. We’ve got plenty of pictures for your enjoyment (but they really don’t do this place justice).

Check them out! Let us know what you think.