The last of only six 1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica cabriolets bodied by Pininfarina, this car was Ferrari’s star car for the Geneva Salon and the New York Auto Show of 1962. Many of the features were added due to its remarkable show car origins, including covered headlights and extra brightwork. The models combined powerful engines and limited production coachwork from inspired designers. With their elegant lines and notably more aggressive stance, the SWB cabriolets are considered the most desirable of all the 400 SAs.
Overview
Model: Ferrari 400 Superamerica
Production Year: 1962
Manufacturer: Ferrari
Designer: Pininfarina
Historical Context
- Exclusive Lineage: The Ferrari 400 Superamerica followed the 410 Superamerica, maintaining the brand's focus on building highly exclusive, bespoke grand tourers for the wealthiest clientele.
- Limited Production: The 400 Superamerica was produced in very limited numbers, with only about 47 units built between 1960 and 1964, ensuring its exclusivity and desirability among collectors.
Specifications
Engine:
- Type: 4.0-liter (3967 cc) Colombo V12
- Power Output: Approximately 340 horsepower at 7000 rpm
- Configuration: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Transmission:
- Type: 4-speed manual
Chassis and Body:
- Chassis: Tubular steel frame
- Body: Handcrafted aluminum bodywork by Pininfarina
Suspension:
- Front: Independent with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers
- Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and telescopic shock absorbers
Brakes:
- Type: Disc brakes on all four wheels
Design
Exterior:
- Styling: The 400 Superamerica features a sleek and elegant design by Pininfarina, characterized by its long hood, sweeping lines, and balanced proportions.
- Variations: There were several variations of the body style, including the Coupe Aerodinamico and the Cabriolet, each showcasing Pininfarina's ability to combine aerodynamics with aesthetic appeal.
- Distinctive Features: The car often featured distinctive design elements such as covered headlights, chrome accents, and wire wheels, enhancing its luxurious and sporty appearance.
Interior:
- Luxury: The interior of the 400 Superamerica was meticulously crafted with the finest materials, including premium leather upholstery, hand-finished wood trim, and custom gauges.
- Comfort: The car offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, designed to provide a luxurious driving experience for long-distance touring.
- Performance
- Powerful Engine: The 4.0-liter V12 engine delivered impressive power and acceleration, allowing the 400 Superamerica to reach top speeds of around 160 mph (260 km/h), making it one of the fastest road cars of its time.
- Driving Dynamics: The combination of a powerful engine, advanced suspension, and disc brakes ensured that the 400 Superamerica not only excelled in straight-line speed but also offered superior handling and braking performance.
Legacy and Collectibility
- Rarity: The limited production numbers and bespoke nature of each 400 Superamerica make it an exceptionally rare and valuable collector’s item.
- Auction Value: These cars often fetch multi-million dollar prices at auctions, reflecting their historical significance, craftsmanship, and enduring appeal.
- Historical Significance: The 400 Superamerica represents a key period in Ferrari’s history, showcasing the brand's commitment to combining high performance with luxurious design.
Notable Features
- Engine Performance: The high-revving Colombo V12 engine is a hallmark of Ferrari’s engineering excellence, delivering a unique combination of power and refinement.
- Coachbuilt Elegance: Pininfarina’s design work on the 400 Superamerica resulted in a car that is both beautiful and aerodynamically efficient, emphasizing the artistry of Italian coachbuilding.
- Technological Innovation: The use of disc brakes, independent front suspension, and other advanced technologies for the time set the 400 Superamerica apart from many of its contemporaries.
You may purchase a print of the 1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica in our dElegance 2011 online gallery.