{"id":507489,"date":"2023-08-11T14:00:14","date_gmt":"2023-08-11T14:00:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sportscardigest.com\/?p=507489"},"modified":"2024-12-06T04:10:17","modified_gmt":"2024-12-06T04:10:17","slug":"1952-ferrari-340-america-berlinetta","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.supercars.net\/blog\/1952-ferrari-340-america-berlinetta\/","title":{"rendered":"FOR SALE: 1952 Ferrari 340 America Berlinetta"},"content":{"rendered":"

During Ferrari’s formative years, there was a relentless evolution of its infamous V-12 engine, driven by the pursuit of power and reliability. As time progressed, the 12-cylinder Ferraris saw a systematic increment in displacement, culminating in a remarkable milestone with the unveiling of the 340 series in 1950. This model was equipped with a notable 4.1-liter V-12, designed by the revered Aurelio Lampredi. It was essentially a modified version of the powerhouse that fueled Ferrari’s<\/a> subsequent generation of Grand Prix vehicles. When harmoniously paired with a five-speed transmission and an aerodynamic body, the 340 America became the preeminent sports car of its era.<\/p>\n

The new model proved itself in one of motor racing\u2019s greatest trials, the Mille Miglia<\/a>, when Luigi Villoresi won the event outright in 1951 in a Ferrari 340<\/a> America Vignale Berlinetta. And although production totaled fewer than 30 examples, the 340 America also had a disproportionate influence on American enthusiasts, who quickly began to associate the sight, sound, and competition successes of the Ferrari marque with these large-displacement sports cars.<\/p>\n

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Photo \u00a9 2023 Josh Hway courtesy Gooding & Co<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This fascinating and significant example, chassis 0202 A, possesses a rich history and impressive racing results, and was campaigned by some of the greatest drivers of all time. The factory first tested chassis 0202 A on June 1, 1952, and five days later, was sent to France to contest the 24 Hours of Le Mans<\/a>, entered by Ferrari distributor Luigi Chinetti. Painted French Racing Blue and wearing race no. 14, the car was piloted by French privateer racers Andr\u00e9 Simon and Lucien Vincent. Showing exceptional speed from the start, 0202 A was leading the race overall ahead of Stirling Moss\u2019 Jaguar until its fuel tank began to leak. Once repaired, the Ferrari continued on, but Vincent soon skidded into one of the circuit\u2019s famous sandbanks. He lost time digging the car out and dropped to 17th Place. However, a heroic drive during the middle of the night brought 0202 A home in an impressive 5th overall, despite a bad clutch and only two working gears when it crossed the finish line. Copies of numerous period photos on file document the various stages of this dramatic race and bring to life this historic result.<\/p>\n

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Photo \u00a9 2023 Josh Hway courtesy Gooding & Co<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Highlights of chassis 0202 A<\/h2>\n

Fifth Overall and Second in Class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1952
\nRaced in the US by Masten Gregory and Jack McAfee
\nRestored and Certified by Ferrari Classiche in Maranello
\nRetains Its Matching-Numbers Chassis and Engine per Ferrari Classiche Certification<\/a>
\nA Historically Significant and Extensively Documented Early Competition Ferrari<\/p>\n

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Photo \u00a9 2023 Josh Hway courtesy Gooding & Co<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Technical Specs<\/h2>\n