Ferrari 290 MM Spider Scaglietti

Vehicle Overview

The Ferrari 290 MM Spider Scaglietti, chassis 0626, stands as one of the most iconic and storied vehicles in Ferrari’s history. This car encapsulates the golden era of Ferrari racing, with its exceptional engineering and its role in a number of high-profile racing events. Chassis 0626 is particularly famous for its involvement in the 1956 Mille Miglia, driven by none other than Juan Manuel Fangio, one of the greatest drivers of all time. His performance at the Mille Miglia, where he finished 4th overall and 4th in the S+2.0 class, marked an important chapter in the 290 MM’s career, placing it in the spotlight for the first time. The car’s racing pedigree did not stop there. In May 1956, it raced in the 1000km of the Nürburgring, driven by Phil Hill and Ken Wharton, finishing 3rd overall. The same year, it also competed in several other notable events, such as the Swedish Grand Prix, where it finished 2nd overall and 2nd in its class. The 290 MM’s design, developed by Scaglietti, was both functional and striking, blending powerful performance with elegance—a characteristic of Ferrari’s racing cars of that era. As the 1956 season unfolded, the car underwent modifications that would extend its life on the racing circuit. In August of that year, it was renumbered to chassis 0674 and converted into a 315 S, with a new engine. Despite these changes, the original chassis 0626 continued its racing career with great success, transitioning into 1957 with a series of wins. One of the most significant victories came in the 1000km Buenos Aires race, where the car, now under the hands of Luigi Musso, Eugenio Castellotti, Masten Gregory, and Cesare Perdisa, took 1st overall. This victory was a testament to the car’s performance and reliability, even after its conversion. Over the next few years, chassis 0626 continued to race across the globe, competing in the GP of Portugal at Boavista, the GP du R.A.C.B. at Spa, and several races in Nassau. It was a favorite on the circuit, known for its speed, agility, and the skill of its drivers. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, it continued to participate in both European and American races, with notable ownership by figures like Robert Williams and James A. Flynn, who raced it in SCCA events. Despite being repainted and modified over the years, the car maintained its competitive spirit. By the 1970s, the car had been sold into private hands and passed through several collectors, including Pierre Bardinon in France, known for his prestigious Ferrari collection. The car continued to be displayed at various events, such as the Cartier ‘Hommage à Ferrari’ exhibition in 1987 and the Goodwood Revival Meeting in 2001, where it was featured as part of a tribute to Ferrari legends like Juan Manuel Fangio. In 2010, chassis 0626 was sold at RM Sotheby’s auction for a remarkable $28,050,000, an indication of its immense value in the world of classic cars. It was acquired by Leslie Wexner, a renowned collector, who later showcased it at prestigious events like the Tour d’Elegance. Its rich history, combined with its striking design and incredible racing record, ensures that the Ferrari 290 MM Spider Scaglietti, chassis 0626, remains one of the most celebrated Ferraris in the marque’s storied legacy.