Description
At the end of the 1940s, Luigi Chinetti, an Italian racing driver, proposed to Ferrari that they build sports cars for the general public. Ferrari hesitated because the main objective of its business was to win races. Later, Ferrari began preparing to manufacture and sell cars to fund its racing activities. Chinetti, who had been selling European race cars since the 1920s, observed that the United States economy could better support Ferrari's racing ambitions than Europe. In the early 1950s, Chinetti opened Ferrari's first dealership in the United States.
Enzo Ferrari knew that the V12 layout would suit single-seaters and sports cars well, and be perfect for grand tourers: it offered great versatility. In 1954, Ferrari introduced a V12 engine that became one of its signatures: the Colombo 3-litre V12. Some of Ferrari's greatest cars used the Colombo V12, notably the 250 Europa GT. It is certainly the most famous and enduring V12 in history.
The Ferrari 250 Europa GT is unanimously regarded as the first Ferrari built in volume (although it was a very small run). Almost identical to the 250 Europa, it shares similar lines but a shorter wheelbase. The 250 Europa GT was powered by a 2963 cc V12, developing 220 hp. The car had a tubular chassis bearing internal code Tipo 508. Measuring 2. 6 metres, the wheelbase was 200 millimetres shorter than that of the previous 250 Europa, allowing Ferrari to save around a hundred kilograms in total. Although Vignale was responsible for the bodywork of the first Europa GT, the bulk of production was entrusted to Pininfarina.
Some interesting facts about this car:
• The fifth of the 32 GT Europa designed by Pininfarina.
• According to some sources, this car is known as the factory demonstrator.
• Special goodies, as Mr. Ferrari wanted to impress his customers: a 300 km/ h speedometer!
• A special competition gearbox, type 342
• A new Abarth exhaust, delivering a fabulous V12 sound
• Ferrari Classiche certified with all matching numbers
• Magnificent restoration carried out by top specialists for a lifelong Ferrari enthusiast
• Engine complete, gearbox, carburettors, suspension, brakes, etc. rebuilt.
• Full history from new and a beautifully documented restoration
• Winner of the Paleis het Loo Elegant Concours d'Elegance award in 2001
• Has not been shown on the concours lawn since
• Invited and participated in the Cavalcade Classiche Rally for Ferrari's 70th anniversary
• FIVA passport
• Participated in and completed the famous Mille Miglia in 2017 and 2019
• Supplied with a report by Marcel Massini
• The best Ferrari after the Tour de France Automobile
If you are looking to buy a very special Ferrari and one of the most elegant 12-cylinder Ferraris with the famous 3. 0-litre Colombo V12 on a short chassis at a relatively affordable price, come and see us! Magnificent condition, showing the quality of the previous restoration.
Price on request
Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information, our introductory video, or more photos if needed.
Very Superior Old Cars is a classic sports car consultancy founded in 1992. We work for our clients to help them with all aspects of their automotive interests. From acquisition to private sale in our art gallery, through advice and management of restoration.
VSOC occupies a central location between Amsterdam and The Hague, just 17 km from Schiphol Airport. A wide selection of classic sports cars is on display, in very good to excellent condition, ranging from beautiful affordable sportscars to rare and valuable collectibles. If you plan to visit us in the Netherlands, we recommend making an appointment so we can devote some time to you. If you arrive by plane or train, we will be happy to pick you up at the airport or the station. In addition to Dutch, we speak English, German, French and Italian.
