1953 Ferrari 340 MM

Ferrari 340 MM

The Ferrari 340 MM, also known as the Ferrari 340 Mille Miglia, was a sports racing car produced by Ferrari in the early 1950s. Here’s a different format to discuss the Ferrari 340 MM:

Ferraris 340 MM was developed to compete in endurance racing, particularly the iconic Mille Miglia race. It was a purpose-built racing car that showcased Ferrari’s commitment to performance and success on the racetrack.

At the heart of the Ferrari 340 MM was a powerful 4.1-liter Lampredi V12 engine. This engine was capable of producing approximately 280 to 300 horsepower, offering impressive speed and acceleration. The car’s name, “340 MM,” derived from its engine displacement (340) and its intended race, the Mille Miglia (MM).

The chassis of the Ferrari 340 MM was constructed using a tubular steel frame, providing the necessary strength and rigidity for high-speed racing. The bodywork of the car was typically crafted by various coachbuilders, including Touring, Vignale, and Ghia. Each coachbuilder brought their own unique design elements to the car, resulting in variations in styling and aerodynamics.

Racing

In 1950, the Ferrari 340 MM made its debut in the Mille Miglia race, one of the most demanding and prestigious endurance races of the time. The car proved its capabilities by achieving an impressive second-place finish, setting the stage for future success.

Throughout its racing career, the Ferrari 340 MM participated in numerous competitions, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Targa Florio. It demonstrated its competitiveness and durability, earning victories and podium finishes in various events.

One of the notable achievements of the Ferrari 340 MM was its victory in the 1953 12 Hours of Pescara. The car, driven by Alberto Ascari and Luigi Villoresi, showcased its speed, reliability, and handling prowess, solidifying Ferrari’s dominance in endurance racing.

The Ferrari 340 MM holds a special place in Ferrari’s racing legacy. Its success on the racetrack and its association with iconic events like the Mille Miglia and Le Mans cemented its position as a significant part of automotive history. Today, the Ferrari 340 MM remains highly coveted among collectors and enthusiasts, representing the golden era of sports car racing and Ferrari’s commitment to excellence.

Summary

In conclusion, the Ferrari 340 MM was a powerful and purpose-built sports racing car designed for endurance events like the Mille Miglia. Its potent engine, sturdy chassis, and racing successes contributed to its enduring legacy and desirability among car enthusiasts.

Ferrari 340 MM Technical Specifications

Year of Manufacture – 1953

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 carburettors
ignition single spark plug per cylinder, two magnetos
lubrication wet sump
clutch multi-plate
CHASSIS
frame tubular steel
front suspension independent, unequal-length wishbones, transverse leaf spring, hydraulic shock absorbers
rear suspension live axle, twin radius arms, semi-elliptic springs, hydraulic shock absorbers
brakes drums
transmission 5-speed + reverse
steering worm and sector
fuel tank capacity 177 litres
front tyres 5.50 x 16
rear tyres 6.50 x 16
BODYWORK
type two-seater berlinetta, spider
length
width
height
wheelbase 2500 mm
front track 1325 mm
rear track 1320 mm
weight 850 kg (dry, spider)
PERFORMANCE
top speed 282 km/h
acceleration 0-100 km/h
0-400 m
0-1000 m

Ferrari 340 MM Valuations

Many of the most expensive Ferrari’s are competition cars. This particular car entered the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1953, as well as the Carrera Panamericana, and it was victorious at the 12 Hours of Pescara.
It sold in 2018 for £7,846,701