The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The Ferrari 212 Inter 0157EL by Vignale.
The Ferrari 212 Inter 0157EL, a masterpiece designed by Giovanni Michelotti and bodied by Vignale, represents a significant chapter in Ferrari’s storied history. Introduced in 1951, the 212 Inter served as the successor to the highly successful 166 and 195 Inter GT models, offering a more powerful engine and refined design. This series was built as a versatile sports car, equally adept at road performance and competitive racing. The Ferrari 212 Inter was equipped with a 2.6-liter V12 engine and a five-speed transmission, reflecting Ferrari’s commitment to combining luxury with high-performance engineering. The chassis, measuring 2600 mm, was designed to accommodate a ‘plus-two’ seating arrangement, making it the first Ferrari recorded with this feature. The alloy body, crafted by Vignale, showcased Michelotti’s elegant and aerodynamic design, which was both functional and visually striking. A notable highlight of the 212 Inter series was its outstanding performance in the 1951 Carrera Panamericana Road Race, where Inter Vignales secured the first and second overall positions. This achievement underscored the car’s racing pedigree and solidified its reputation as a formidable competitor in international motorsports. Enzo Ferrari himself delivered the 212 Inter 0157EL on September 12, 1951, to his friend Odofranco Wild, a Swiss industrialist, marking a personal touch in the car’s storied journey. The design of this particular model drew comparisons to the Cunningham C-3, albeit on a smaller scale, reflecting the collaborative brilliance of Ferrari, Michelotti, and Vignale. In 1955, the car was purchased by an American visitor, beginning a new chapter in its international ownership history. Over the years, it passed through several hands, each contributing to its well-documented legacy. Recently, the 212 Inter 0157EL underwent a meticulous restoration by Rod Drew of FAI and Beckman Metalworks, ensuring its preservation for future generations. This restoration marked the car’s first public showing since its revival, highlighting the enduring allure and historical significance of the Ferrari 212 Inter 0157EL. As one of the last Ferraris built in small production numbers, it remains a testament to the brand’s dedication to innovation, performance, and timeless design.
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.
