The 1957 Ferrari 290 S was an evolution of the 290 MM, which had won the 1956 Mille Miglia, and the first Ferrari sports car with a four-cam V12. The Vittorio Jano powerplant produced 330 PS, while the chassis and Scaglietti bodywork remained largely unchanged. Unlike its predecessor, it never won a race; Ferrari entered it as a factory effort only at the Buenos Aires 1000 km. Only two units were built, and both were later converted into 315 S models.
Summarized from the sources cited below; every figure in the text was automatically verified against the sources.
Learn moreEngine and chassis · Two cars, one works entry
Engine and chassis
Vittorio Jano's Tipo 136 featured two overhead camshafts per cylinder bank, bore and stroke measurements of 73 by 69.5 mm, and 3490.61 cm³. With a 9:1 compression ratio, it produced 330 PS at 8000/min, compared to 320 PS at 7200/min for the 290 MM. Six Weber 42DCN carburetors replaced the three 36IR4 units, with ignition provided by two plugs per cylinder and four coils. The Tipo 520 tubular chassis was carried over unchanged from the 290 MM, featuring a De Dion rear axle with transverse leaf springs.
Two cars, one works entry
Both cars debuted at the 1957 Buenos Aires 1000 km. Chassis 0646 with Castellotti, Musso, and Trintignant qualified second, but retired at mid-race; Musso subsequently switched to the eventual winning car, a 290 MM. Chassis 0656 qualified fifth and retired early. For Sebring, 0656 was fitted with an older 290 MM engine, while 0646 was upgraded to a 315 S. Both cars were later converted to larger engine displacements.
Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.
Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari 290 S
When was the Ferrari 290 S raced?
The Ferrari 290 S was raced in 1957.
How much power does the Ferrari 290 S have?
Power of the Ferrari 290 S: 330 PS.
What engine does the Ferrari 290 S have?
Engine of the Ferrari 290 S: 3.5 l (3491 cm³) Tipo 136 Jano V12. It is mounted at the front.
How many Ferrari 290 S were built?
2 units of the Ferrari 290 S were built.
Who engineered the Ferrari 290 S?
Engineering of the Ferrari 290 S: Carrozzeria Scaglietti.
What are the predecessor and successor of the Ferrari 290 S?
Predecessor: Ferrari 290 MM. Successor: Ferrari 315 S.