Rebellions are the founders of legends. Ferrari – the legend of sports exotic cars, is an outcome of such a rebellious spirit. Fired up and emerged out of the Maranello factory of Italy, the story itself is wonderful.
Enzo Ferrari, an Italian master in car engineering and speedy driving introduced his first, unfinished, rough model of Tipo – 815 in 1947. Nobody would have thought that this creepy caterpillar would transform into a blazing beauty within few years.
Enzo Ferrari, the mastermind behind this exotic car, was an expert in car engineering and speed driving since his young ages. In 1929, he founded his own company Scuderia – stable for his “prancing horses”. They built racing cars for Alfa Romeo, forming a conglomerate. Alfa Romeo’s preparation to take over Enzo’s business, made the turning point.
He left the giant in 1938. The result of the dispute left a ban for him from motorsports world, for four long years, which laid the foundation for Tipo-815 – the first Ferrari. September 1939 the Second World War started. There was no car racing. Enzo was rolling his 8 clinder, 1.5lt V12 Fiat engine towards glory. It was not even allowed to call a “Ferrari”.
Next model 125 sport was a hit. The first car allowed using Ferrari logo. People still believe this as the initial model of Ferrari due to this. This unique racing car engineered by Gioacchino Colombo, Angelo Nasi and Giuseppe Busso, was made of a 537kw/72bph, 5600rpm V12 engine to race at 105.6mph. Despite its victories recorded in 1947 no one paid attention to this newcomer.
Among many drawbacks from lack of work force, disputes, and litigation, Ferrari established its Formula 1 (F1) world championship, participated at every racing car championship up to this date.
Launched first versions as roadsters, Ferrari introduced a fastback coupe, convertible roadster “166-195-212 inter” in 1948. Models of 1952 were taking shape of modern signature design, sleek lines running along the lengthy face, highlighting its strong persona.
1960s are the years Ferrari received its magical touch. A chief Engineer of Enzo Ferrari’s former work force lent his hand for this struggling legend. Carlo Chiti built the team, to launch 250 GTO, with Gorghieri and Scaglietti marking the classics. For Sports Car International it was the eighth best top sports car in 1960’s. Recording all timer in top sports cars, hottest cars, and greatest Ferrari by the Motor Trend Classic. 250GTO thus made a classy note in its history.
Life for Ferrari was not easy. Giants like Ford, and Porsche in mid 1960s grabbed racing titles, leaving only dreams for Ferrari. Making a comeback with 312PB, Ferrari started to focus on formula – 1, retiring from racing cars. In 1988, Enzo Ferrari passed away, leaving a legend to the sports world.
Today under the wings of Fiat, Ferrari blossomed in to a champion recording Constructor’s championship for 5 years and World Driver’s championship for 4 years in a raw. Ferrari pilot Michael Schumacher brought a legend’s dream to a reality, even after his demise.
Ferrari is a range of sports cars. Whether it is a coupe, convertible, or a hatchback, Ferrari stands for its unique character – speed. The beauty of this exotic car is one that will live forever.