The Ferrari 412 MI was a one-off from 1958, built for the second running of the 500 Miles of Monza to compete against American race cars. It combined an older 375 F1 chassis with new bodywork and a revised 4.0-liter V12 from the 335 S sports car. "412" signifies 4 liters and 12 cylinders; "MI" stands for "Monza-Indianapolis." The 412 MI was the most powerful Ferrari in the "Race of Two Worlds," took pole position, and finished third—the best result of any European competitor.
Summarized from the sources cited below; every figure in the text was automatically verified against the sources.
Learn moreEngine and transmission · Chassis and suspension · The circuit
Engine and transmission
The 60-degree V12 originated from the 335 S of the 1957 Mille Miglia; bore and stroke remained 77 by 72 mm, and displacement stayed at 4023 cm³. A significantly higher compression ratio of 9.9:1 and a higher rev limit produced 447 PS at 7700 rpm. Six Weber 42DCN carburetors, slightly smaller than on the 335 S, metered the mixture, and lubrication was by dry sump. The racing transmission had only three gears.
Chassis and suspension
The tubular frame was based on an older Formula 1 Ferrari 375 and modified for the new engine. At the front, double wishbones with coil springs were used instead of the original leaf springs; at the rear, a De Dion axle with two trailing arms and a transverse leaf spring was fitted. Anti-roll bars were newly added, as the 1950 375 F1 chassis did not have them. The brakes were drums, and the fuel tank held 204 liters.
The circuit
The Monza oval had been reconfigured in 1955 in Indianapolis style with banked corners. In 1958, the second duel between European single-seaters and sports cars against American specialized race cars was held there across three heats of 267 km each, totaling 500 miles. It was the fastest race of its era, reaching speeds of up to 284 km/h. Luigi Musso and Mike Hawthorn were scheduled to share the 412 MI.
Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.
Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari 412 MI
When was the Ferrari 412 MI raced?
The Ferrari 412 MI was raced in 1958.
How much power does the Ferrari 412 MI have?
Power of the Ferrari 412 MI: 447 PS.
What engine does the Ferrari 412 MI have?
Engine of the Ferrari 412 MI: 4023 cm³ 60° V12 naturally aspirated Jano Tipo 141 engine. It is mounted at the front.
How many Ferrari 412 MI were built?
The Ferrari 412 MI is a one-off.
Who engineered the Ferrari 412 MI?
Engineering of the Ferrari 412 MI: Carlo Chiti; Vittorio Jano.
Who drove the Ferrari 412 MI?
Drivers of the Ferrari 412 MI: Luigi Musso, Mike Hawthorn, Phil Hill.
How many races did the Ferrari 412 MI win?
The Ferrari 412 MI took 0 wins in 1 races.