Ferrari 340 Mexico
The Ferrari 340 Mexico was a sports racing car produced by Ferrari in the early 1950s. It was specifically designed to compete in the Carrera Panamericana, a grueling Mexican endurance race. Here’s a brief history of the Ferrari 340 Mexico:
Ferrari’s 340 Mexico was introduced in 1952 as a limited-production model. It was developed to take on the challenges of the Carrera Panamericana, a demanding race that covered over 3,000 kilometers (1,900 miles) across Mexico. Ferrari created the car to participate in the sports car category of the race.
Under the bonnet, the Ferrari 340 Mexico was equipped with a powerful 4.1-liter Lampredi V12 engine. The engine produced approximately 280 to 300 horsepower, delivering impressive performance for its time. It featured a four-speed manual transmission, allowing the driver to optimize the car’s power output for the different sections of the race.
The chassis of the Ferrari 340 Mexico was based on the familiar tubular steel frame design, which provided strength and rigidity necessary for endurance racing. The bodywork was typically handcrafted by various coachbuilders, including Ghia, Vignale, and Touring. The design of the car showcased aerodynamic lines and race-inspired features.
In 1952, three Ferrari 340 Mexico cars competed in the Carrera Panamericana. The race proved to be challenging, with treacherous road conditions and extreme speeds. However, the Ferrari 340 Mexico demonstrated its performance capabilities and durability by securing a remarkable 1-2-3 victory in the sports car category. The winning car was driven by the Mexican driver, Felice Bonetto, and co-driver, Giovanni Bracco.
Following the success in the Carrera Panamericana, the Ferrari 340 Mexico continued to participate in various racing events around the world, including the Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio. However, due to changing regulations and Ferrari’s focus on other models, production of the 340 Mexico was limited, and only a small number of examples were produced.
Today, the Ferrari 340 Mexico holds historical significance and remains highly regarded among collectors and enthusiasts. Its association with the Carrera Panamericana victory and its rarity contribute to its desirability and value in the classic car market.
In summary, the Ferrari 340 Mexico was a sports racing car developed by Ferrari in the early 1950s. It was designed specifically for the Carrera Panamericana and achieved notable success in the race. With its powerful engine, robust chassis, and aerodynamic design, the 340 Mexico remains an important part of Ferrari’s racing legacy.
Ferrari 340 Mexico Technical Specifications
Year of Manufacture – 1952
ENGINE | ||
type | front, longitudinal 60° V12 | |
bore/stroke | 80 x 68 mm | |
unitary displacement | 341.80 cc | |
total displacement | 4101.66 cc | |
compression ratio | 8 : 1 | |
maximum power | 206 kW (280 hp) at 6600 rpm | |
power per litre | 68 hp/l | |
maximum torque | – | |
valve actuation | single overhead camshaft per bank, two valves per cylinder | |
fuel feed | three Weber 40 DCF/3 carburettors | |
ignition | single spark plug per cylinder, two coils | |
lubrication | wet sump | |
clutch | multi-plate | |
CHASSIS | ||
frame | tubular steel | |
front suspension | independent, unequal-length wishbones, transverse leaf spring, hydraulic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar | |
rear suspension | live axle, twin radius arms, semi-elliptic springs, hydraulic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar | |
brakes | drums | |
transmission | 5-speed + reverse | |
steering | worm and sector | |
fuel tank | capacity 150 litres | |
front tyres | 5.50 x 16 | |
rear tyres | 6.50 x 16 | |
BODYWORK | ||
type | two-seater berlinetta, spider | |
length | 4201 mm | |
width | 1503 mm | |
height | 1333 mm (berlinetta) | |
wheelbase | 2600 mm | |
front track | 1278 mm | |
rear track | 1250 mm | |
weight | 900 kg (dry, berlinetta) | |
PERFORMANCE | ||
top speed | 282 km/h | |
acceleration 0-100 km/h | – | |
0-400 m | – | |
0-1000 m | – |