1947 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa: The Race Car That Started It All

The 1947 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is a legendary race car. It marked the start of Ferrari’s success in racing. This car has a 2.0L V12 engine, making 110 horsepower. It’s known for its light design, advanced suspension, and fast performance.

This car’s top speed and specs are impressive. It’s a key part of Ferrari’s history.

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa was the start of Ferrari’s motorsport dynasty. It had a light body, a strong V12 engine, and won races. It showed Enzo Ferrari’s dream for speed and innovation, a legacy that lives on today.

Soave Besana was the first owner of the Ferrari 166 Corsa Spyder. His brother, Gabriele, bought a similar car at the same time. Chassis #004C is the oldest Ferrari, dating back to 1948.

The auction estimate for #004C is between 5.5 and 7.5 million euros. It will be auctioned at the Broad Arrow auction in Villa d’Este in May 2025.

Introduction to the Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa was sold to E. Vallarani & Cie. for 520,000 lire on 30 July 1949. Victor Polledry won a class victory in Montlhéry in 1956. The car was sold to Henry Austin Clark Jr. for $3,800 in 1965.

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa is a key part of Ferrari’s history. Its specs and top speed are notable.

Key Takeaways

• The 1947 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is an iconic race car that laid the foundation for Ferrari’s dominance in motorsports.
• The car features a 2.0L V12 engine designed by Gioachino Colombo, producing 110 horsepower.
• The ferrari 166 spyder corsa top speed and 1947 ferrari 166 spyder corsa specs make it a notable vehicle in the history of Ferrari.
• Chassis number #004C is considered the oldest existing ‘original’ Ferrari, likely dating back to 1948.
• The current auction estimate for #004C is between 5.5 and 7.5 million euros at the Broad Arrow auction in Villa d’Este, scheduled for May 2025.
• The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa was the beginning of a legendary motorsport dynasty.

Birth of a Legend: The 1947 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa history is a story of innovation and performance. It started with a team of renowned engineers, including gioachino colombo. They worked together to create a car that would change the game.

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa development was tough. The team faced many challenges. But their hard work paid off, creating a legendary car.

• A powerful V12 engine
• A lightweight aluminum body
• A top speed of over 120 mph

These features made the car a top contender on the track. Its sleek design added to its speed and power.

The gioachino colombo partnership was key to the car’s success. His expertise helped perfect the car’s performance. Today, the 1947 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is celebrated as a motorsport milestone.

Revolutionary V12 Engine Design

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa v12 engine shows Ferrari’s dedication to innovation and speed. It has a 2.0 L Colombo V12 engine and can reach an impressive 100 mph. This engine’s design and engineering make it a key part of the car’s history.

The technical details of the ferrari 166 spyder corsa v12 engine are impressive. Some key features include:

• Engine size: 2.0 L Colombo V12
• Top Speed: 100 mph
• Production years: 1948 – 1953

This engine’s performance is thanks to Ferrari’s aim for power and efficiency. Only 39 units were made between 1948 and 1953. Today, the ferrari 166 spyder corsa is worth about $8 million, making it very sought after.

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa v12 engine is a true marvel of design and engineering. Its speed and technical specs make it a dream for car lovers and collectors. The engine’s performance shows Ferrari’s commitment to making fast and efficient cars.

Engineering Innovations and Technical Specifications

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa’s success comes from its advanced engineering and specs. Its ferrari 166 spyder corsa engineering focused on being light and having a strong engine. The ferrari 166 spyder corsa technical specifications highlight a 1,500cc engine, making 118 horsepower at 6,800 rpm, and reaching 121 mph top speed.

The car’s ferrari 166 spyder corsa suspension ensures a smooth ride. This lets drivers take the car to its limits. Key features include:

• Weight: less than 680 kg
• 0-60 mph time: 13.1 seconds
• Top speed: 121 mph

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa was a track powerhouse thanks to its engineering and specs. Its impact is seen in Ferrari’s designs even today.

Lightweight Aluminum Body Construction

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa’s body is a key part of its design and performance. Its lightweight aluminum body helps with driving. It was made to be light for better performance and handling.

Aluminum made the car lighter, perfect for racing. This light body helps with speed, stopping, and turning. It was a big reason for its success in racing.

The car’s performance shows the benefits of its light body. With a strong V12 engine and a light body, it goes fast and handles well. Its design and engineering are truly innovative.

Some key features of the ferrari 166 spyder corsa body construction include:

• Lightweight aluminum body
• Open-top design
• Optimized performance and handling

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa’s body is a big part of its design and performance. Its light aluminum body is great for racing. It makes the car fast, stop well, and turn easily.

Racing Heritage and Achievements

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa has a rich racing history. It won many races, including the Mille Miglia and Targa Florio. This shows its top-notch performance and durability.

This car is known for its speed and agility. It could hit speeds of about 140mph and go from 0-62mph in under six seconds. This made it a favorite among racing fans.

Some of the notable achievements of the ferrari 166 spyder corsa include:

• Victories in the Coupes des Petites Cylindrees Formula 2 race and the Bari Formula 2 Grand Prix
• Six second-place finishes in various races
• Two third-place finishes in monoposto events

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa’s racing success comes from its design and engineering. It had a powerful engine and a lightweight body. This made it a pleasure to drive, whether racing or not.

Impact on Ferrari’s Racing Program

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa had a big ferrari 166 spyder corsa impact on Ferrari’s racing. It brought new design and performance standards. This set a high bar for Ferrari’s racing cars.

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa racing program made Ferrari a big name in racing. It won races like the Mille Miglia and Targa Florio. These wins showed its strength and built Ferrari’s good name.

• Winning the Mille Miglia in 1948
• Achieving victories in the Targa Florio and other notable races
• Setting new standards for Ferrari’s racing cars with its innovative design and exceptional performance

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa’s legacy lives on in Ferrari’s racing success. Its ferrari 166 spyder corsa impact is felt today. It has shaped Ferrari’s racing approach, leading to many victories over the years.

Design Evolution and Aerodynamics

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa shows Ferrari’s dedication to innovation and performance. Its aerodynamics were key to its success. The sleek body and curved lines helped it speed and turn quickly.

The car’s body was made of lightweight aluminum. This reduced its weight and improved its power-to-weight ratio. Its 2.0-liter V12 engine produced 140 horsepower at 7000 RPM. These design and aerodynamic features made it a strong competitor on the track.

• Streamlined body styling to reduce drag
• Curved lines and aerodynamic features to maximize downforce
• Lightweight aluminum body construction to reduce weight
• Optimized engine performance to improve power-to-weight ratio

Performance Capabilities and Track Behavior

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa is known for its impressive performance. Its powerful engine and light design make it fast and agile on the track. It’s a joy to drive, whether you’re an expert or new to cars.

The car’s acceleration, top speed, and handling are key to its performance. Its engine packs a lot of power, allowing it to speed up quickly and hit high speeds. The suspension system also plays a big role, giving a smooth ride and sharp handling.

On the track, the ferrari 166 spyder corsa is a force to be reckoned with. Its mix of power, speed, and agility makes it a favorite among racing fans. The car’s design and engineering are top-notch, ensuring an unmatched driving experience.

Preservation and Restoration Challenges

Preserving a Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is a detailed task. With only eight made, it’s very rare and valuable. Finding original parts for the restoration is hard because of its limited production and age.

Checking the car’s documents is also key. It’s about making sure the chassis number, engine, and other parts are correct. This keeps the car’s value and history intact.

Some important things to think about when preserving and restoring a Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa include:

• Original parts sourcing: Looking for rare and hard-to-find parts to keep the car original.
• Documentation requirements: Checking the car’s chassis number, engine, and other parts is vital for authentication.
• Authentication process: Verifying the car’s originality and authenticity through documents and expert checks.

Knowing the challenges of preserving and restoring a Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa helps us value and understand its rarity and history.

Market Value and Collector Appeal

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa’s market value is key to its legacy. It’s a rare and historic race car, highly sought by collectors. Many fans want to own a piece of racing history.

Recent auctions show the demand for vintage racing cars. For example, a 1968 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Berlinetta sold for $3,017,820. A 1967 Simca 1000 Coupe sold for $17,209. These prices vary based on rarity, condition, and history.

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa’s value comes from its rarity and race history. Its condition, documents, and past owners also matter. This makes it highly appealing to collectors, who are willing to pay more for a good example.

In 2018, Gooding & Company sold 122 out of 146 cars, a success rate of 83.6%. The average sale price was $954,914, with a median of $363,000. These numbers show the strong demand and appeal of vintage racing cars, including the ferrari 166 spyder corsa.

Notable Examples and Their Histories

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is a symbol of Ferrari’s rich history. Only eight were made, each with its own story. Famous chassis numbers like 002C and 004C were the first to be sold.

These cars have won many races, showing off their speed and design. The car that won the Turin Grand Prix is a highlight. It also won the Coupes des Petites Cylindrees Formula 2 and the Paris 12 Hours at Montlhery.

Historical Significance

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is a key car in Ferrari’s history. It greatly influenced Ferrari’s racing and design. Its historical significance comes from its performance, design, and being one of Ferrari’s first cars.

Prestige and Value

Today, the Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is highly prized by collectors. Its prestige and value come from its rarity, history, and iconic status. The car’s worth shows its lasting impact on motorsports.

Influence on Modern Ferrari Design

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa has greatly influenced modern Ferrari designs. Its design, engineering, and performance have shaped future Ferrari models. For example, the Ferrari 250 GTO and Ferrari F40 were inspired by the 166 Spyder Corsa’s speed, style, and innovation.

The 166 Spyder Corsa’s use of lightweight materials, aerodynamic design, and powerful engines is now a Ferrari standard. These features are seen in many modern Ferrari models. The car’s racing heritage also influenced Ferrari’s design, focusing on performance and speed.

Some notable Ferrari models influenced by the 166 Spyder Corsa include:

• Ferrari 250 GTO
• Ferrari F40
• Ferrari SF90 Stradale

These models show the 166 Spyder Corsa’s lasting impact on Ferrari design. They focus on speed, style, and innovation. Ferrari’s design continues to evolve, keeping these principles at the heart of their brand.

Historical Significance in Motorsports

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is a symbol of innovation and power in motorsports. Its V12 engine and aluminum body made it a top contender on the racing circuit.

It played a key role in Ferrari’s success in motorsports. The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa’s victories, like at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, made it a legend.

Impact on Racing Technology

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa’s design and tech changed racing cars forever. Its V12 engine and lightweight materials raised the bar for racing cars. Its success inspired others to push the limits of their designs.

Legacy in Endurance Racing

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa’s impact on endurance racing is celebrated today. It won many races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Its lasting legacy shows its unmatched performance and durability.

• 1st place in the Paris 12 Hours
• 2nd place at the Circuiti di Pescara
• 3rd place at the Coppa d’Oro delle Dolomiti

These wins highlight the Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa’s incredible performance. It left a lasting mark on motorsports.

Contemporary Recognition and Status

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is highly sought after today. Its rarity, condition, and history make it valuable. This makes it a prized item for collectors and fans.

Its fame grows from racing in big events like the Mille Miglia and Targa Florio. It even finished sixth at the 1948 Targa Florio. This shows its speed and importance in racing history.

Some key points about the Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa include:

• Estimated auction value: €5,500,000 – €7,500,000
• One of two examples bought by Ferrari’s first customers, the Besana brothers
• Finished sixth overall at the 1948 Targa Florio
• Participated in the 1948 and 1949 Mille Miglia races

The Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa’s fame and value show its lasting impact. It’s a highly sought-after item for collectors and fans.

Its rich history, impressive performance, and rare ownership make it a masterpiece. It’s a true marvel of car engineering and design.

Event	Year	Result
Targa Florio	1948	6th place
Mille Miglia	1948	Participated
Mille Miglia	1949	Participated

Archival Documentation and Authentication

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa’s archival documentation is key to its history and legacy. It details the car’s design, development, and racing career. The authentication process checks the car’s history through documents like factory records and race photos.

Some important parts of the ferrari 166 spyder corsa’s documentation include:

• Factory records: These give details on the car’s production, like its chassis and engine numbers.
• Historical photographs: These show the car’s history, including its racing and notable events.
• Race documentation: This includes records of the car’s racing wins and achievements.

The ferrari 166 spyder corsa’s factory records are very important. They tell us about the car’s production and technical details. By looking at these records, we can learn more about the car’s design and its role in motorsports history.

In conclusion, the ferrari 166 spyder corsa’s archival documentation and authentication are vital. They help keep the car’s history and significance alive for future generations.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Ferrari’s First Champion

The 1947 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa’s story shows Ferrari’s lasting impact in racing. It was Ferrari’s first champion, setting the stage for their success. Its design and engineering made Ferrari a top name in racing.

This car’s legacy goes beyond its wins. It shaped Ferrari’s future models and design. Its success led to Ferrari’s dominance in racing, inspiring a drive for excellence.

Now, the 1947 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is a prized collector’s item. Its rarity and history make it valuable. It’s a key part of Ferrari’s legendary status in motorsports. The ferrari 166 spyder corsa legacy and its role as Ferrari’s ferrari 166 spyder corsa first champion continue to excite fans and historians. Its impact will be felt for many years.

FAQ

What are the key specifications of the 1947 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa?

The 1947 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa had a 2.0-liter V12 engine. This engine was very powerful for its time. It also had a lightweight aluminum body, making it fast and easy to handle.

What was the collaboration with Gioachino Colombo like in the development of the 166 Spyder Corsa?

Gioachino Colombo was a key engineer in making the 166 Spyder Corsa. He helped design the engine and the car’s chassis. His work made the car both strong and agile.

How did the 166 Spyder Corsa’s V12 engine design revolutionize Ferrari’s racing program?

The V12 engine in the 166 Spyder Corsa was a big change for Ferrari. It gave the car lots of power and was reliable. This engine helped Ferrari win races and became a symbol of the brand.

What were the key engineering innovations that made the 166 Spyder Corsa so successful on the track?

The 166 Spyder Corsa was fast and handled well thanks to its design. It had a light aluminum body, a good suspension, and a well-designed chassis. These features made it a top competitor.

How did the 166 Spyder Corsa’s racing heritage shape Ferrari’s future in motorsports?

The 166 Spyder Corsa won big races like the Mille Miglia and Targa Florio. This made Ferrari known as a top team in racing. Its success helped Ferrari stay at the top for many years.

What are some of the notable examples of the 166 Spyder Corsa, and what stories do they tell?

There are many special 166 Spyder Corsas out there. Each one has its own story and achievements. They show the car’s impact and legacy in the world of cars.

How has the 166 Spyder Corsa influenced the design of modern Ferrari models?

The 166 Spyder Corsa’s design has shaped Ferrari’s look today. Its sleek style and innovative features are seen in many Ferrari cars. This design has become a symbol of Ferrari’s excellence.

What challenges are involved in preserving and restoring the 166 Spyder Corsa?

Keeping the 166 Spyder Corsa in top shape is hard. Finding original parts and keeping the car’s history true is key. It takes a lot of skill and care to keep its value and status.

What factors contribute to the 166 Spyder Corsa’s high market value and collector appeal?

The 166 Spyder Corsa is rare and has a rich history. Its racing wins and historical importance make it very valuable. It’s a true classic and a dream for car lovers and collectors.