Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Unique 1950 Ferrari ‘Uovo’ Set To Dazzle At Salon Privé Concours 2024
A unique 1950 Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo’ will be a highlight at this summer’s Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients at Blenheim Palace, scheduled for 28-29 August. The car's name, ‘Uovo’, translates to ‘egg’ in Italian, aptly describing its eye-catching design. This event is known as the UK’s most exclusive automotive garden party.
Salon Privé Concours Chairman Andrew Bagley expressed his excitement about showcasing this rare vehicle. "This exceptional car has been something of an undiscovered gem for decades," he said. "It is an icon that has spent its life largely hidden behind closed doors, so I am thrilled that we have secured it to be one of the star draws at Blenheim Palace this August. I know it will be a memorable attraction for our guests, who will relish the opportunity to finally see this wonderfully unique and iconic Ferrari up close."
The 1950 Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo’ was designed by a young and enthusiastic team aiming for ultra-aerodynamic performance in high-speed road races like the Mille Miglia. Racing driver Giannino Marzotto, a two-time Mille Miglia winner, spearheaded the project. He admired Ferrari’s V12 engines but believed better aerodynamics could enhance performance.
Marzotto and his brother Vittorio ordered two Ferrari 212 Export chassis with engines and running gear but without bodywork. They collaborated with coachbuilder Paolo Fontana and engineer Franco Reggiani to create a sleek, low, and rounded coupé with a rigid frame to handle rough roads effectively.
Reggiani, who had experience in the aeronautical industry during the war, aimed for a lightweight car with a beautiful shape. He used ‘Peraluman’, a lightweight aluminium alloy incorporating magnesium, despite its difficulty to work with. The car featured a low nose, narrow body, pronounced wings, and braided steel cables instead of traditional A-pillars.
The windscreen was made from Perspex rather than glass and was shallow. The driver’s seat was positioned towards the rear based on Enzo Ferrari's advice that it helps with oversteer perception. Although they initially ordered 212 Export chassis, delays led them to use an existing 166 MM Touring Barchetta chassis instead.
Performance Enhancements
The engine from one of the delayed 212 Exports was fitted into the new car. It was based on the original 1.5-litre V12 Ferrari but had a capacity of 2.6 litres, producing 190bhp. A key feature was its extra-large fuel tank designed for long-distance road races, allowing over 300 miles between stops.
This feature contributed significantly to its success in the 1951 Mille Miglia and its victory at the Coppa della Toscana that same year. The car also won the 1952 Trento-Bondone race driven by Giulio Cabianca before spending several years racing in North America and eventually being retired into a private collection.
Rare Public Appearance
This unique car appeared as one of the legends at Ferrari’s 50th anniversary celebrations at Museo Enzo Ferrari in 1997 but remains a rarity at concours events. The Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients offers a rare chance to see this iconic vehicle up close.
Entries are nearly closed for the event's 19th edition in 2024, with only specific classes still accepting entries: Porsche ‘RS’ Pre-2004 and Legendary Liveries. Those interested in entering should contact Concours Coordinator Nick Wilkes via phone or email provided on their official website.
The Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients runs on 28-29 August 2024 at Blenheim Palace. Tickets are available on their official website.
Continue with Google