The Ferrari 637 was intended to compete in the North American CART series and was designed by Gustav Brunner. Behind it was Enzo Ferrari's frustration over proposed Formula 1 engine regulations mandating a V8; he had an IndyCar built and made no secret of his desire to win the Indianapolis race. Following test sessions with a March 85C-Cosworth at Fiorano, Ferrari built its own car with a 2.65-liter turbocharged V8 in 1986, tested by Michele Alboreto. It never saw race action: the car was handed over to Alfa Romeo.
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Learn moreFrustration over the regulations · The road to the car · Technical details
Frustration over the regulations
The FIA was planning a V8 with a maximum displacement of 3500 cm³ for Formula 1 and a turbo ban starting from the 1989 season. Prior to that, FISA had even considered reducing displacement to 1200 cm³, for which Ferrari had already developed a new four-cylinder. Enzo Ferrari disagreed with the plans, threatened to withdraw, and commissioned an IndyCar. Whether he was entirely serious remains a matter of debate.
The road to the car
Ferrari approached Goodyear regarding a potential CART program. Goodyear recommended the Truesports team for collaborative development work. After the 1985 CART season, Truesports and driver Bobby Rahal traveled to Italy, where Rahal and Alboreto tested the March at Fiorano. Afterwards, Ferrari dismantled the car and built its own machine in 1986, which Alboreto evaluated.
Technical details
For a car allegedly meant only as a bargaining chip, the 637 was meticulously engineered. The upper chassis was made of aluminum, mechanically fastened and bonded to the lower carbon-fiber tub. The Tipo 034 engine was a 32-valve, 90° 2.65-liter turbo V8, matching CART regulations, with upward-facing exhaust pipes. Alfa's own 2.65-liter IndyCar engine initially ran in a March, but was also seen in the 637 chassis at Fiorano.
Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.
Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar)
When was the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar) raced?
The Ferrari 637 (IndyCar) was raced in 1986.
How much power does the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar) have?
Power of the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar): 690–710 hp at 11'500–12'000 /min.
What engine does the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar) have?
Engine of the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar): 2.65 l 90° V8 single turbocharger Ferrari 034. It sits behind the seats as a mid-engine.
Who engineered the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar)?
Engineering of the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar): Gustav Brunner.
Who drove the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar)?
Drivers of the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar): Michele Alboreto.
How many races did the Ferrari 637 (IndyCar) win?
The Ferrari 637 (IndyCar) took 0 wins in 0 races.
