The 5 most beautiful Ferrari stories
Since its creation in 1939 by Enzo Ferrari, the Prancing Horse brand has forged a legend. Its models have marked the history of automobiles and motor racing. Discover Ferrari's five most beautiful stories.
The birth of Scuderia Ferrari
It all began in 1929 when Enzo Ferrari founded Scuderia Ferrari, a racing team. At the time, he was only a driver and racing director for Alfa Romeo. In 1939, he decided to start building his own racing car and founded the company Auto Avio Costruzioni. The First World War delayed his plans, and it wasn't until 1947 that he presented his first car, the 125 S. It was the beginning of a long and rich history.
The beginnings of the Ferrari brand
The 125 S was the first sports car built by Ferrari. Powered by a 1.5-liter V12 engine developing 118 horsepower, it won its first race on May 25, 1947, at the Piacenza circuit. This marked the beginning of a long series of victories that would establish the brand's reputation. In 1948, Ferrari won the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the 166 MM, a racing car derived from the 125 S.
Over the years, Ferrari developed new, ever-more powerful models. The 166 Inter, the 212 Export, and the 340 America were all models that would establish the brand's reputation. Enzo Ferrari quickly understood the importance of competition in the development of his road cars. Each race victory helped improve the performance of his civilian models.
The epic of the 50s
The 1950s were Ferrari's golden age. On the racetrack, the brand dominated the competition. It won the 24 Hours of Le Mans nine times during this decade. Its drivers, including legends such as Alberto Ascari, Juan Manuel Fangio, and Stirling Moss, won the biggest races.
The rivalry with Mercedes
The most beautiful story of this era is undoubtedly the rivalry between Ferrari and Mercedes. The two manufacturers engaged in a merciless battle on circuits around the world. In 1955, during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a terrible accident involving a Mercedes killed nearly 80 people in the stands. This tragic event marked a turning point in the history of motorsport. Despite this, the rivalry between the two brands continued.
In 1956, Ferrari won the Constructors' World Championship. The following year, Mercedes took the lead. The battle was fierce and captivated fans around the world. It was the golden age of motorsport, when cars and drivers became legends.
The era of the Grand Prix
After the 1950s and its endurance victories, Ferrari turned its attention to Formula 1. In 1950, the first edition of the Formula 1 World Championship was won by Italian driver Nino Farina in an Alfa Romeo. Enzo Ferrari then decided to enter the premier motor racing competition.
Successes in Formula 1
In 1951, Ferrari entered its first single-seater in Formula 1. Although it didn't win the championship that year, the team stood out for its performance. It wasn't until 1952 and 1953 that Ferrari won the championship with Alberto Ascari at the wheel of the 500 F2. This marked the beginning of a long series of Formula 1 victories.
Over the years, Ferrari has established itself as one of the most successful manufacturers in the history of the sport. With 16 constructors' titles and 15 drivers' titles, the Prancing Horse brand is an integral part of Formula 1 legend. Drivers such as Michael Schumacher, Niki Lauda, and Sebastian Vettel have left their mark on the team's history.
The 250 GTO, an automotive legend
Among Ferrari's most iconic models, the 250 GTO is unmissable. Produced in just 39 units between 1962 and 1964, this sports car has become a true icon.
An exceptional design
Designed by the renowned Giotto Bizzarrini, the 250 GTO stands out for its sleek and elegant design. Its flowing forms and taut lines make it one of the most beautiful sports cars ever built. Under the hood is a 3.0-liter V12 engine developing 300 horsepower. Weighing just 924 kg, the 250 GTO offers breathtaking performance for its time.
An inestimable value
Today, the 250 GTO has become a true star among collectors. In 2018, one of them was sold at auction for a record $70 million, making it the most expensive car in the world. Its rarity, exceptional design, and performance make it a unique model coveted by lovers of fine mechanics.
Formula 1, still at the heart of Ferrari
Since its inception in 1950, Ferrari has been continuously involved in Formula 1. The Prancing Horse brand is an integral part of the history of the premier motorsport discipline. With 16 constructors' titles and 15 drivers' titles, Ferrari is one of the most successful manufacturers in the history of Formula 1.
Ferrari's legendary drivers
Among the drivers who have made their mark on Ferrari's Formula 1 history are names like Alberto Ascari, Juan Manuel Fangio, Niki Lauda, Michael Schumacher, and Sebastian Vettel. Each of them has made their mark and contributed to making Ferrari one of the most successful teams in the sport.
Even today, Ferrari remains one of the most competitive teams in Formula 1. Despite the passing years, the Prancing Horse brand continues to inspire fans around the world. Its road and racing models remain benchmarks in terms of performance and design. Ferrari has stood the test of time and established itself as one of the most legendary brands in automotive history.
