
The 1959 Ferrari 250 TR 290 MM is a rare and iconic sports racing car, representing the pinnacle of Ferrari’s 1950s racing heritage. This car embodies both the elegance and fierce competitiveness that characterized Ferrari’s machines during the golden age of endurance racing.
This car was initially a Ferrari Works car, used as a 290 MM model during the 1956 racing season. It was raced by Equipe National Belge/Ecurie Francorchamps in Belgium in 1957. Then it returned to the factory and was used as a development car.
In 1959, the 290 MM four-cam V-12 engine was replaced with a two-cam V-12 Testa Rossa engine and it was sold in Brazil as a ³new´250 Testa Rossa. It was raced between 1960 & 1962 until it was damaged in major accident which cut the car in half.
The undamaged rear of the car formed the basis of an America V-8 powered special that was raced through the 1960's. It lay untouched until it was discovered by an English domiciled Italian in 1986. He thought he had purchased the remains of chassis # 726 TR, another destroyed Ferrari and reconstructed it as that car. It was sold to an Englishman in 1991, who conducted additional research and determined the car was actually # 0606.
Overview
- Manufacturer: Ferrari
- Production Year: 1959
- Designer: Carrozzeria Scaglietti
- Class: Sports racing car
- Chassis: Tubular steel
Engine Specifications
- Type: 3.0-liter (2953 cc) V12 engine
- Configuration: 60-degree naturally aspirated
- Bore x Stroke: 73 mm x 58.8 mm
- Valvetrain: Single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per bank, 2 valves per cylinder
- Fuel Delivery: Six twin-choke Weber carburetors
- Power Output: Approximately 300 horsepower at 7,200 rpm
- Compression Ratio: 9.8:1
Transmission
- Type: 4-speed manual transmission
Performance
- Top Speed: Around 167 mph (270 km/h)
- 0–60 mph: Approximately 5.5 seconds
Design and Construction
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Bodywork:
The 250 TR featured a lightweight aluminum body, hand-crafted by Scaglietti, with flowing curves and a signature cut-off rear tail design to improve aerodynamics. Its pronounced front air intake and iconic "pontoon" fenders on early models contributed to superior cooling and downforce. -
Interior:
Stripped-down and minimalistic for weight savings, the interior featured only essential instrumentation.
Racing Heritage
The 250 Testa Rossa is renowned for its successes in endurance racing. The 290 MM version was named after the legendary Mille Miglia, an event it was built to conquer. Ferrari dominated world sports car racing with this model, including significant victories at:
- 24 Hours of Le Mans (1958 and 1959)
- Targa Florio
- Sebring 12 Hours
The 290 MM's combination of power, reliability, and nimbleness made it a dominant force on long, demanding circuits.
Innovations
- Aerodynamics:
The 250 TR pioneered Ferrari’s early use of aerodynamic experimentation, shaping sports car design in subsequent years. - Cooling System:
Enlarged intakes and innovative fender designs enhanced airflow, a necessity for the V12 engine's performance under race conditions.
Legacy
- Rarity and Value:
Only a handful of these cars were produced, making them among the most valuable Ferraris today. Auction prices for original examples have exceeded $70 million, reflecting their rarity and historical significance. - Collector’s Dream:
The 250 TR is one of the most desirable cars for enthusiasts and collectors, combining beauty, racing heritage, and Ferrari craftsmanship.
Summary
The 1959 Ferrari 250 TR 290 MM stands as a masterpiece of automotive engineering and a symbol of Ferrari’s dominance in 1950s endurance racing. Its design, performance, and unparalleled racing pedigree secure its place as one of the most revered cars in motorsport history.
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