The 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Competizione (Zagato) is a rare and sought-after sports car produced by the iconic Italian automaker Ferrari. This car was designed by Zagato, an Italian coachbuilding company known for crafting lightweight and aerodynamic bodies for high-performance cars. Today, the 250 GT Competizione is considered one of the most beautiful and collectible Ferraris ever made.
The Ferrari 250 GT Competizione was based on the 250 GT Berlinetta, which was introduced in 1956. The car was powered by a 3.0-liter V12 engine that produced 240 horsepower, which was impressive for a car of its era. However, the Competizione was built with a lighter and more aerodynamic body designed by Zagato, which made the car faster and more agile on the track.
The body of the Ferrari 250 GT Competizione was designed with racing in mind. The car had a lightweight aluminum body that was hand-crafted by Zagato. Its unique double-bubble roofline improved aerodynamics and gave the car a distinctive look. The car also had a long hood, a short deck, and sleek lines that flowed smoothly from front to back.
Inside, the Ferrari 250 GT Competizione was stripped down for racing. The car had lightweight bucket seats, a minimalist dashboard, and a spartan interior focused on performance. The car also had a roll cage for safety and an emergency fire extinguisher.
The Ferrari 250 GT Competizione was successful on the track, winning several races in Europe and North America. In 1957, it won the 12 Hours of Sebring, one of the world's most prestigious endurance races at that time. The car also competed in the Mille Miglia, the Targa Florio, and the Tour de France Auto, among other races.
Today, the Ferrari 250 GT Competizione is a highly sought-after collectible car. Only 14 of these cars were ever built, which makes them extremely rare and valuable. The car's combination of Italian design, Ferrari engineering, and racing success has made it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Competizione (Zagato) is a rare and beautiful sports car that combines Italian design, Ferrari engineering, and racing success. Its lightweight and aerodynamic body, designed by Zagato, and powerful V12 engine made it a formidable competitor on the track. Today, the 250 GT Competizione is a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its beauty, rarity, and racing heritage.
Images: Zagato; shorey.net