The 1950 Ferrari 275 S was an experimental testbed: it was the first Ferrari powered by Aurelio Lampredi's new V12. The Colombo engine had failed to meet expectations in Formula 1, and Ferrari needed a large-displacement alternative. The new engine, intended to race in Formula 1 later on, was therefore tested first in a sports car. It displaced 3.3 liters, produced 270 PS, and propelled the car to 240 km/h. Only two units with Barchetta coachwork by Touring were built, and neither has survived in its original condition.
Summarized from the sources cited below; every figure in the text was automatically verified against the sources.
Learn moreTechnical details · 1950 Mille Miglia · Conversion to 340 America
Technical details
The new "long-block" engine displaced 3322.34 cm³ with a 72 mm bore and 68 mm stroke. It had a single overhead camshaft, two valves and one spark plug per cylinder, three Weber 40DCF carburetors, and wet-sump lubrication. Initially, it produced 270 PS at 7200/min with an 8:1 compression ratio. The frame was a tubular steel ladder frame with a short 2250 mm wheelbase; it was sourced from the 166 MM. Up front was independent suspension, at the rear a live axle on semi-elliptic springs, with drums on all four wheels handling the braking.
1950 Mille Miglia
Both cars built entered the 1950 Mille Miglia. The chassis carried the numbers 0030MT and 0032MT, piloted by Alberto Ascari with Senesio Nicolini and Luigi Villoresi with Pasquale Cassani. The transmission could not cope with the immense power, and both entries retired. Afterward, the cars raced only a few more times as 275 S models. However, the engine had proven its capabilities and was promptly installed in a single-seater, as originally planned.
Conversion to 340 America
Between 1950 and 1951, both cars received new 4.1-liter Lampredi engines derived from Formula 1 powerplants. Power output dropped to 220 PS in the process. The cars now belonged to the 340 America range, representing its first two examples. One, 0030MT, was rebodied after 1952 by the newly founded coachbuilder Scaglietti; the other remained a Touring Barchetta. Neither has survived in original condition.
Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.
Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari 275 S
When was the Ferrari 275 S raced?
The Ferrari 275 S was raced in 1950.
How much power does the Ferrari 275 S have?
Power of the Ferrari 275 S: 270 PS.
What engine does the Ferrari 275 S have?
Engine of the Ferrari 275 S: 3.3 l (3322 cm³) Lampredi V12. It is mounted at the front.
How fast is the Ferrari 275 S?
Top speed of the Ferrari 275 S: 240 km/h.
How many Ferrari 275 S were built?
2 units of the Ferrari 275 S were built.
Who engineered the Ferrari 275 S?
Engineering of the Ferrari 275 S: Federico Formenti at Carrozzeria Touring.
What are the predecessor and successor of the Ferrari 275 S?
Successor: Ferrari 340 America; Ferrari 340 Mexico/MM.