The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The Ferrari 212 Export Spider Vignale designed by Michelotti.
The Ferrari 212 Export Spider Vignale, chassis #0110E, is a remarkable piece of automotive history that exemplifies Ferrari’s racing pedigree and innovative engineering. Debuting at the 1951 Geneva Motor Show, the 212 Export represented a significant evolution of the brand’s racing philosophy, building on the success of the earlier 166 family. This model featured an enlarged version of Gioachino Colombo’s legendary 2-liter V-12 engine, now displacing 2,562 cc. The 212 Export’s engine was not just a technical upgrade; it enhanced the car’s performance capabilities, making it a formidable competitor on the racetrack. The V-12 engine was known for its distinctive sound and power delivery, characteristics that endeared it to enthusiasts and drivers alike. The racing legacy of the 212 Export was already being forged in 1951. A sister-ship to the chassis #0110E participated in the prestigious Mille Miglia, leading the event until it unfortunately retired near Ravenna. This performance highlighted the car’s potential and established it as a strong contender in one of Italy’s most challenging road races. Another notable achievement of the Ferrari 212 Export came from a different example of the model, which was owned and driven by the notable Italian racer Vittorio Marzotto. This particular car triumphed at the Giro di Sicilia, showcasing the blend of power, handling, and durability that characterized Ferrari vehicles of the era. Marzotto’s victory not only added to the model’s illustrious racing history but also reinforced Ferrari’s reputation for creating cars that excelled in both performance and design. The 212 Export Spider Vignale, with its striking aesthetics and racing pedigree, continues to be celebrated among collectors and enthusiasts. Its blend of elegance and performance embodies the spirit of the early 1950s in Italian automotive design, reflecting a time when Ferrari was cementing its place in motorsport history. Chassis #0110E remains a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to innovation and excellence, ensuring its status as an iconic model in the brand’s storied lineage.
The story of Carrozzeria Vignale represents one of the many somewhat forgotten success stories born against the backdrop of an Italy that was torn apart by the Second World War and which, starting from the end of the 1950s, was able to recover enough to know a real miracle. economical just a few years later.
