1961 Ferrari 246 SP
The 246 SP caused uproar when it was unveiled at a special press conference in 1961 as it was the very first mid-engined Ferrari.
The new mechanical layout was cloaked in highly innovative bodywork – developed as a result of Carlo Chiti’s wind tunnel tests – with a very low bonnet line.
The new car’s first victory came the same year on the very difficult Piccole Madonie Circuit where Olivier Gendebien won the Targa Florio.
Ferrari 246 SP Technical Specifications
Year of Manufacture – 1961
ENGINE | ||
type | rear, longitudinal 65° V6 | |
bore/stroke | 85 x 71 mm | |
unitary displacement | 402.88 cc | |
total displacement | 2417.33 cc | |
compression ratio | 9.8 : 1 | |
maximum power | 199 kW (270 hp) at 8000 rpm | |
power per litre | 112 hp/l | |
maximum torque | – | |
valve actuation | twin overhead camshaft per bank, two valves per cylinder | |
fuel feed | three Weber 42 DCN carburettors | |
ignition | single spark plug per cylinder, two coils | |
lubrication | dry sump | |
clutch | multi-plate | |
CHASSIS | ||
frame | tubular steel | |
front suspension | independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar | |
rear suspension | independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers | |
brakes | discs | |
transmission | 5-speed + reverse | |
steering | rack-and-pinion | |
fuel tank | capacity 115 litres | |
front tyres | 5.50 x 15 | |
rear tyres | 6.50 x 15 | |
BODYWORK | ||
type | two-seater spider | |
length | 4060 mm | |
width | 1480 mm | |
height | 1050 mm | |
wheelbase | 2320 mm | |
front track | 1200 mm | |
rear track | 1200 mm | |
weight | 590 kg (dry) | |
PERFORMANCE | ||
top speed | 270 km/h | |
acceleration 0-100 km/h | – | |
0-400 m | – | |
0-1000 m | – |