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The Ferrari 166 MM Panoramica by Zagato.
The Ferrari 166 MM Panoramica, commissioned by gentleman driver Antonio Stagnoli, represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the GT coupé concept. Originally crafted in 1949 by the renowned coachbuilder Zagato, this vehicle was one of the early examples of Ferrari’s collaboration with top-tier designers, reflecting a blend of performance and aesthetic sophistication. The 166 MM Panoramica stood out with its innovative design and aerodynamic efficiency, encapsulating the spirit of the GT coupé. However, in 1950, the car’s journey took a dramatic turn. Zagato, responding to the racing trends and Stagnoli’s aspirations, transformed the original coupé into a barchetta—a lightweight, open-top racing car. This transformation marked the loss of the original Panoramica body, relegating the unique design to history. The story took a remarkable twist in 2007, thanks to the advances in restoration technology and the dedication of Ferrari Classiche, Ferrari’s heritage division. Utilizing the photometric process, which involves detailed photographic analysis to recreate the precise dimensions and features of a vehicle, the Ferrari 166 MM Panoramica was meticulously brought back to life. This revival was timed to coincide with the celebration of Ferrari’s 60th anniversary, serving as a tribute to the brand’s storied past and its ongoing legacy. The significance of the 166 MM Panoramica extends beyond its design. It highlights the early collaboration between Ugo Zagato and Enzo Ferrari, a partnership that dates back to the 1930s with the Alfa Romeos of Scuderia Ferrari, well before Ferrari officially became a manufacturer. Despite their earlier collaborations, the 1949 166 Panoramica is considered the first Ferrari to be bodied by Zagato, marking the beginning of a new chapter in automotive design and engineering. The resurrection of the 166 MM Panoramica not only honors the historical significance of the car but also exemplifies Ferrari’s commitment to preserving its heritage. This restoration underscores the importance of innovation, craftsmanship, and the enduring legacy of Ferrari’s iconic designs, ensuring that even lost masterpieces can be appreciated by future generations.
The car with which Zagato inaugurated the “Panoramica” series in 1947 was a Fiat “1100”, characterized by a large and bright passenger compartment, in which the transparent surfaces were expertly made with a mix of crystal and Plexiglas, an experimental material that allowed the curvature.
Ferrari and Zagato have crossed paths several times, and each occasion has generated something special and unique. These contacts have always arisen out of…
The 1910s: Aeronautics Ugo Zagato was born in Gavello, near Rovigo, on June 25, 1890. He began his coachbuilding career in 1919 when he…
