The 1951 Ferrari 212 Inter Ghia Alloy Bodied Coupe is a remarkable example of early Ferrari craftsmanship and design. The 212 Inter was Ferrari's second series of grand touring cars, building on the success of the 166 and 195 models. The Ghia-bodied variant, in particular, showcases the exquisite styling and luxurious features that Ferrari became known for.
Here’s a detailed overview of the 1951 Ferrari 212 Inter Ghia Alloy Bodied Coupe:
Background
- Manufacturer: Ferrari
- Year: 1951
- Model: 212 Inter Ghia Alloy Bodied Coupe
Specifications
- Engine: The 1951 Ferrari 212 Inter is powered by a 2.6-liter (2562 cc) V12 engine designed by Gioachino Colombo. This engine produces around 150-170 horsepower, depending on the state of tune, providing robust performance for a grand touring car.
- Transmission: The car features a five-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the rear wheels and allowing for a smooth and engaging driving experience.
- Chassis: The 212 Inter is built on a tubular steel frame, designated as Tipo 212. This construction offers a strong yet lightweight foundation, contributing to the car’s agile handling.
- Suspension: The front suspension consists of independent unequal-length wishbones with a transverse leaf spring, while the rear features a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs. This setup provides a balance between comfort and sporty handling.
- Brakes: The car is equipped with hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels, which were standard for the era and provided adequate stopping power.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The 212 Inter Ghia Alloy Bodied Coupe features a sleek and elegant design, characterized by its aerodynamic lines, low profile, and distinctive Ghia styling. The alloy bodywork not only reduces weight but also adds to the car’s allure with its unique curves and details.
- Design Elements: The Ghia-bodied variant includes distinctive features such as a bold front grille, sweeping fenders, chrome accents, and finely crafted interior appointments. The design reflects the collaboration between Ferrari and the renowned Italian coachbuilder Ghia.
- Interior: The interior of the 212 Inter is luxurious, with high-quality materials such as leather upholstery, wood trim, and detailed instrumentation. The cabin is designed to provide comfort and style, befitting a grand touring car.
Performance
- Speed: The 212 Inter is capable of reaching speeds of around 115-120 mph (185-193 km/h), making it one of the faster grand touring cars of its time.
- Acceleration: The V12 engine provides strong and smooth acceleration, allowing the car to go from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9-10 seconds. The power delivery is linear, giving the driver a sense of effortless performance.
- Handling: The car offers excellent handling characteristics, thanks to its well-balanced chassis and suspension system. It is known for its stability and agility, making it enjoyable to drive on both winding roads and long stretches of highway.
Historical Significance
- Ferrari’s Development: The 1951 Ferrari 212 Inter represents an important step in Ferrari’s development as a premier manufacturer of luxury sports cars. It built on the successes of earlier models and helped establish Ferrari’s reputation for producing high-performance, beautifully designed automobiles.
- Coachbuilding Collaboration: The collaboration with Ghia showcases the importance of coachbuilders in creating unique and bespoke designs for Ferrari. The Ghia-bodied 212 Inter is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Italian coachbuilding.
- Market Impact: The 212 Inter was aimed at affluent customers seeking a combination of performance and luxury. Its success helped Ferrari gain a foothold in the international market and attract a discerning clientele.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the 1951 Ferrari 212 Inter Ghia Alloy Bodied Coupe is a highly sought-after collectible. Its rarity, historical significance, and exquisite design make it a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts.
- Cultural Appreciation: The car is appreciated not only for its performance but also for its contribution to the legacy of Ferrari and the art of coachbuilding. It remains an iconic model that represents the elegance and innovation of early Ferrari automobiles.
- Enduring Appeal: The combination of vintage aesthetics, powerful performance, and historical significance ensures the 212 Inter’s continued interest and admiration among collectors and Ferrari aficionados.
Summary
The 1951 Ferrari 212 Inter Ghia Alloy Bodied Coupe is a classic example of Italian automotive excellence from the early 1950s. With its powerful V12 engine, elegant Ghia-designed alloy body, and luxurious interior, it stands out as a significant model in Ferrari’s history. The 212 Inter’s legacy in the automotive world, combined with its appeal among collectors, makes it a cherished piece of Ferrari’s rich heritage.
You may purchase a print of the 1951 Ferrari 212 Inter Ghia Alloy Bodied Coupe in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.
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