Imagine owning a piece of early Ferrari history, one with a story of transformation and performance. The 1952 Ferrari 212 Inter is already a rare machine, representing the marque’s grand touring roots. Only around 80 examples were built on the 212 platform between 1950 and 1953. This particular car, chassis 0259EU, began its life as a formal Pinin Farina coupe. However, it now wears a gorgeous, hand-built aluminum body. This open-air Touring barchetta style truly captures the spirit of 1950s endurance racing.
The Evolution of Chassis 0259EU
Ferrari sold the chassis new through the Florence dealer Garage La Rotunda. The car soon made its way to the United States. Its original engine eventually gave way to a unit from a 250 GT. In the early 2000s, this 1952 Ferrari 212 Inter underwent a dramatic change. D. Moroney in England completed the meticulous barchetta conversion. This process involved replicating the Superleggera construction of the period. The original Pinin Farina coupe body paneling was removed. Therefore, the car now proudly wears the open, racing look.
Touring Barchetta Bodywork
The striking aluminum body is finished in a period-correct Red color. It features a classic egg-crate grille up front. A hood scoop is flanked by smaller vents on the hood. The car is completed with minimal dual windscreens. Notably, the doors lack external handles for a clean racing aesthetic. NART fender badges add a hint of American racing history.
Cockpit and Driver Appointments
The open cockpit reveals fixed-back bucket seats. These seats are elegantly trimmed in rich Brown leather. Color-matched leather covers the center tunnel and door panels. You will notice the door pull straps, a simple racing touch. A split-wood-rimmed steering wheel is positioned before the dash. This wheel has beautiful engine-turned spokes.
Instrumentation and Details
Jaeger instrumentation gives the driver necessary feedback. The 8,500-rpm tachometer includes inset coolant temperature gauges. The 250-km/h speedometer contains an inset clock. A St. Christopher badge is fitted on the body-color dashboard. The five-digit odometer shows approximately 62,000 miles.
V12 Engine, Power, and Performance
This 1952 Ferrari 212 Inter features a replacement Colombo V12 engine. The engine is believed to have originated in a 250 GT Boano. This V12 breathes through three Weber carburetors. Magneti Marelli ignition provides the spark with dual coils and distributors. The engine was overhauled in 2009. The fuel pumps and carburetors were rebuilt again in 2019. Power reaches the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.
The chassis features an independent front suspension. This suspension uses double wishbones and a transverse leaf spring. The solid rear axle has semi-elliptical leaf springs and an anti-roll bar. Houdaille shock absorbers control the motion at all four corners. Stopping power comes from hydraulic drum brakes on all wheels. Bright Borrani wire wheels complete the look.
The history of this 1952 Ferrari 212 Inter is extensively documented. A report by renowned historian Marcel Massini verifies the chassis’ history. It details its initial Pinin Farina coupe configuration. The current barchetta body gives the car an aggressive, powerful profile. This rare machine offers a true vintage Ferrari driving experience.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
