A vintage Bugatti has become the world’s most expensive car after fetching over $30 million (£20.4 million) at auction.

The vintage 1936 Type 57SC Atlantic is one of only three ever built and was purchased by the Mullin Automotive Museum in Oxnard, California.

Although the exact amount of the bid has not been revealed, it is known to have smashed the previous record $12.2 million paid for a Ferrari Testa Rossa last year.

Family of late car collector Dr Peter D Williamson submitted the car to be auctioned but did not expect it to sell for such a high price.

According to Top Gear, the car was first bought by Lord Philippe de Rothschild in 1938 and fitted with a supercharger three year later, giving its 3.3-litre engine 210bhp. When in peak condition, the Atlantic could hit speeds of 123mph.

It is hoped it will be put on display for visitors to see in the near future.

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