Ferrari 340 Mexico Coupé

Vehicle Overview

The Ferrari 340 Mexico, produced in 1952, is a true gem of automotive history, with only four examples ever built: three berlinettas and one spider; all featuring stunning Vignale bodywork designed by Giovanni Michelotti. This model was created following Ferrari’s victory at the 1951 Carrera Panamericana, with the goal of repeating that success in the tough race the following year. The result was a car that blended incredible performance with the elegance and craftsmanship that Ferrari is known for. Under the hood, the 340 Mexico was powered by a 4.1L V12 engine, delivering 280 horsepower. This engine, developed from Aurelio Lampredi’s work, was paired with three Weber carburetors and a 5-speed manual gearbox. To ensure the car could handle the intense demands of racing, Ferrari also reinforced the rear suspension and transmission. The result was a car that could reach a top speed of 282 km/h—an impressive figure for its time—and was ready to take on the challenges of the Carrera Panamericana. The design of the 340 Mexico is just as impressive as its performance. Built on a tubular steel chassis, the Vignale body was available in two configurations: the sleek berlinetta and the open-top spider. The car’s bodywork was not just about looks, though—every curve and line was carefully crafted to enhance aerodynamics and stability at high speeds. On the race track, the 340 Mexico proved its worth. Three of the four cars entered the 1952 Carrera Panamericana, with one driven by Luigi Chinetti and Jean Lucas finishing in third place. The car also raced in the Mille Miglia and the 12 Hours of Reims, although with mixed results. Despite its limited production, the 340 Mexico’s racing pedigree and timeless design make it a sought-after collector’s car today. With its combination of performance, engineering, and beauty, the Ferrari 340 Mexico remains a remarkable and iconic model in Ferrari’s storied history.