Ferrari 400 Superamerica Superfast II

Vehicle Overview

The Ferrari 400 Superfast II, designed by Aldo Brovarone at Pininfarina, made its debut at the 1960 Turin Motor Show, showcasing groundbreaking aerodynamic design. Ferrari claimed that this sleek, sophisticated body was honed in a wind tunnel, a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and performance. The 400 Superfast II’s shape, likened to a broad airplane wing, was characterized by its smooth, flowing lines and futuristic features. One of the most striking design elements was the retractable headlights, which were ingeniously integrated into the nose of the car, contributing to its sleek, uninterrupted silhouette. Initially, the Superfast II captured attention with its avant-garde design, but the car underwent a significant transformation in the winter of 1961-1962. During this period, the car received a number of revisions to enhance both its performance and aesthetics. A prominent hood scoop was added, providing better air intake for the powerful V12 engine that lurked beneath the car’s long bonnet. This not only improved the car’s performance but also gave it a sportier and more aggressive appearance. Other revisions included the removal of the rear fender skirts, which simplified the lines of the car and reduced drag, aligning it more closely with Ferrari’s racing heritage. The retractable headlights were also relocated to a more conventional position at the front of the fenders and were covered by elegantly curved plastic lenses. These updates refined the car’s appearance while improving its functionality. The refined design of the Superfast II later served as the foundation for the “standard” Ferrari 400 Superamerica, which retained the sleek, aerodynamic profile of its predecessor but with the practical and aesthetic improvements introduced in 1961-1962. The Ferrari 400 Superfast II remains an iconic example of Ferrari’s design evolution, blending cutting-edge aerodynamics with striking aesthetics and innovative engineering.