This 1951 Ferrari 212 Export, #0086/E, was one of 27 built. Its inaugural race was at the Giro di Sicilia, meaning the tour Sicily where it came first. It crashed and Vignale was tasked with removing the "Sicilian cart" body and constructing an export spider body for the car. It was re-bodied by Fontana as a spider at the close of 1951. It was campaigned heavily including the Giro di Sicilia and Mille Miglia where it caught fire and the body was destroyed. It was again fitted with the body was destroyed. In 1953 it was again fitted with a Fontana body and raced in lesser events. It was then sold to a US Owner.
Tedious historical research and old world technologies are responsible for the Fontana body you see on the car today.
Overview
- Production Year: 1951
- Manufacturer: Ferrari
- Class: Sports car / Racing car
- Body Styles: Various body styles were produced, including berlinetta (coupe) and barchetta (open-top).
Design and Specifications
- Engine: The 212 Export was powered by a 2.6-liter V12 engine designed by Gioachino Colombo. This engine was capable of producing approximately 160-170 horsepower.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox.
- Chassis: The car utilized a tubular steel chassis, which was both lightweight and strong, suitable for racing purposes.
- Suspension: It featured independent front suspension with transverse leaf springs and a live rear axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs.
- Brakes: Drum brakes on all four wheels.
Performance
- Top Speed: Approximately 130 mph (210 km/h), depending on the configuration and body style.
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in around 7 seconds.
Notable Achievements
- Racing Success: The Ferrari 212 Export saw considerable success in racing. It participated in numerous prestigious races such as the Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and Le Mans, often securing high positions and victories.
- Limited Production: Only about 28 units of the 212 Export were produced, making it a rare and highly sought-after collector's item today.
Design Variations
The 212 Export was available in several body styles, designed and built by various renowned coachbuilders, including:
- Touring Superleggera: Known for its lightweight, elegant designs.
- Vignale: Produced some of the more flamboyant and distinctive designs.
- Ghia: Contributed to the sleek and stylish look of some 212 Exports.
Legacy
The Ferrari 212 Export played a crucial role in establishing Ferrari's reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance sports and racing cars. Its success on the track and its elegant design made it a favorite among enthusiasts and collectors. Today, the 212 Export is highly prized at auctions and by classic car collectors for its historical significance and beauty.
You may purchase a print of the 1951 Ferrari 212 Export in our dElegance 2010 online gallery.
