Some might think scrap, others might think treasure. RM Sotheby’s are the latter in the case of this 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial Spider Series I by Pininfarina which will need a little bit more than a detail to return it to its former glory.
This iconic model holds a significant place in automotive history, serving as the foundation for modern supercars. Highly sought after by collectors, it represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and timeless design which is why it will go under the hammer with RM Sotheby’s.
During the mid-1950s, Ferrari’s inline-four-cylinder sports racers emerged as a captivating but often overlooked chapter in the marque’s history. Enzo Ferrari recognized the competitive advantage of four-cylinder engines in Formula Two racing, as they delivered power more quickly than his high-revving V12 cars.
To address this, Ferrari assigned Aurelio Lampredi to develop a four-cylinder motor, leading to the debut of a 2,5-litre engine in the 1951 Bari Grand Prix.
With the withdrawal of rival teams, Ferrari’s dominance became evident, and the FIA elevated Formula Two as the determining series for the World Drivers’ Championship in 1952 and 1953. Ferrari’s success continued with Alberto Ascari securing back-to-back championships in 1952 and 1953, establishing the brand’s motorsport dominance. Inspired by the achievements of Lampredi’s inline four, Ferrari experimented with various chassis and displacement combinations, resulting in the creation of the 500 Mondial in early 1954.
Chassis number 0406 MD, the second Mondial built, holds significant historical value and an intriguing ownership history. Sold to Franco Cornacchia, the renowned sports car dealer and head of Scuderia Guastalla, the car was raced by former factory driver Franco Cortese and co-driver Perruchini at events such as the Coppa della Toscana and Mille Miglia in 1954. Later, it was re-bodied by Scaglietti and driven by Joao Rezende Dos Santos and Angelo Benzoni in subsequent races.
The car eventually made its way to the United States in 1958, passing through several owners and enduring modifications, including an engine swap with an American V8. It experienced fire damage and was eventually sold without an engine to Ed Niles, a Ferrari specialist, and subsequently to Walter Medlin. Preserved in its race-damaged condition for over four decades, chassis 0406 MD still retains its original chassis plate and is accompanied by components such as a period-correct Mondial engine and matching-numbers gearbox.
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While a comprehensive restoration is necessary, this Mondial Spider presents a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to bring it back to its former glory. As one of only 13 Pinin Farina spiders built and possessing a rich ownership history, it holds immense value. With proper refurbishment, the car can be showcased at concours d’elegance and marque exhibitions or enjoyed during major vintage racing events, including the Mille Miglia Storica.
While some may think its lunacy, the 0406 MD Mondial encapsulates the allure of Ferrari’s inline-four-cylinder era, and its restoration journey promises a fulfilling experience for its future caretaker.
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