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The Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Cabriolet chassis 915.026 by Pininfarina.
The Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Cabriolet, chassis 915.026, is a stunning representation of Pininfarina’s craftsmanship and one of the most voluptuous designs to emerge from this era. Contrasting sharply with Pininfarina’s earlier, boxier Alfa designs, this two-seater cabriolet showcases a flowing, enveloping form with sinuous lines and curvaceous bodywork that exudes both elegance and aggression. Built on one of the first 6C 2500 SS chassis meant for private use, this cabriolet embodies the shift from Alfa Romeo’s competition-focused models towards more luxurious, road-going iterations. The 6C 2500 was originally introduced in 1939, with early Super Sports (SS) chassis built for racing, such as the Siluro open-body designs. Once Alfa Romeo’s racing obligations were fulfilled, the focus turned to production models like the LWB (long wheelbase) Turismo saloons and cabriolets. Chassis 915.026 was one of the first of these private SS models, and Pininfarina gave it a bold, sensual shape with pronounced curves, a low center of gravity, and a fully disappearing soft top. The design’s distinctiveness of the Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 915.026 lies in its wave-like wheel arches, which highlight the car’s voluminous form rather than minimizing it—a contrast to Touring’s more restrained designs and Boneschi’s classic mannerisms. This particular cabriolet is also notable for its incorporation of Count Mario Revelli di Beaumont‘s aerodynamic studies, which were at the forefront of automotive design in the late 1930s. Features like concealed headlights, thin pillars, and a subtle ship’s bow front give the car a sleek, wind-cheating profile. The aggressive front ventilation grilles break away from Alfa’s typical design language, adding to the car’s daring appearance. Powered by Ferrari-style 256 special tuning, the 6C 2500 SS could reach an impressive 170 kph. A few of these models were even exported to Germany before World War II halted production. Pininfarina’s collaboration with Revelli di Beaumont marked a pivotal moment in automotive design, blending front and rear volumes in a unified, sweeping form, though World War II interrupted the development of this bold aesthetic.
The story of Pininfarina and Alfa Romeo is one of mutual admiration and a shared passion for innovation in automotive design that spans nearly eighty years. This remarkable partnership, which began in the early 1930s, reflects a continuous journey of creativity, prestige, and performance that has defined both brands.
Discover the fascinating journey of Pininfarina, a name synonymous with luxury automotive design and innovation. From its inception in 1930 to its status as a leader in the industry, this article explores the milestones, iconic vehicles, and visionary designers who shaped the brand’s legacy. Delve into the evolution of Pininfarina, highlighting notable achievements such as the Ferrari 550 Barchetta, the Cambiano concept, and the introduction of Automobili Pininfarina. Join us as we celebrate the artistry and engineering excellence that has defined Pininfarina through the decades.
