The 1952 Ferrari 250 S was the opening chapter in the long line of 250 models powered by the 3.0-liter Colombo V12. Only a single car was built, a closed Berlinetta coupé designed by Giovanni Michelotti and crafted by Vignale. Nonetheless, it was successful: in 1952, it won the Mille Miglia and the 12 Hours of Pescara, and set fastest lap at Le Mans. Striking features were two portholes in the front fenders and the fuel filler cap next to the rear window. Experiences gained from it led to the production 250 MM.
Summarized from the sources cited below; every figure in the text was automatically verified against the sources.
Learn moreTechnical details · Chassis and suspension · In racing
Technical details
The engine was based on that of the 225 S, with the bore enlarged by 3 mm to 73 mm alongside a 58.8 mm stroke; this resulted in 2953.21 cm³, which took better advantage of the regulations in the "Sport 3.0" class. Thanks to Lampredi's new intake and valve gear, it reached 230 PS at 7500/min, with a 9:1 compression ratio. Three Weber 36DCF carburetors supplied the mixture; each cylinder had one spark plug, fired by two ignition coils. It featured wet-sump lubrication, a single-plate clutch, and an unsynchronized five-speed transmission.
Chassis and suspension
The chassis was of the "Tuboscocca" type: a spaceframe made of thinner steel tubing with additional crossmembers, slightly lighter and stiffer than the standard tubular frame. It was developed by Gilco, founded by Gilberto Colombo, and had first been used on a late 212 Export. The front featured independent suspension with unequal-length wishbones and transverse leaf springs, while the rear used a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, along with hydraulic shock absorbers and drum brakes.
In racing
The 250 S debuted at the 1952 Mille Miglia, as did several factory Mercedes 300 SLs. Following the victory, the hood was fitted with an air scoop. At Le Mans, Ferrari competed in the "Sport 3.0" class; Mercedes took a 1-2 finish. In Senigallia, Luigi Villoresi finished third overall in the "Sport +2.0" class. Later that year came victory at the Coppa Acerbo, run at the time as the 12 Hours of Pescara.
Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.
Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari 250 S
When was the Ferrari 250 S raced?
The Ferrari 250 S was raced in 1952.
How much power does the Ferrari 250 S have?
Power of the Ferrari 250 S: 230 PS.
What engine does the Ferrari 250 S have?
Engine of the Ferrari 250 S: 3.0 l (2953 cm³) Colombo V12. It is mounted at the front.
How many Ferrari 250 S were built?
The Ferrari 250 S is a one-off.
Who engineered the Ferrari 250 S?
Engineering of the Ferrari 250 S: Giovanni Michelotti at Vignale.
What are the predecessor and successor of the Ferrari 250 S?
Predecessor: Ferrari 225 S. Successor: Ferrari 250 MM.
