Many in the automotive and racing industry were taken aback when Ferrari moved away from the 12 Cylinder engine in favor of a four banger. Engineer Aurelio Lampredi was convinced that he could get better performance on winding circuits by making these modifications with the engine. His thought paid off tenfold for driver Alberto Ascari and owner Enzo Ferrari.What made this beauty special was the incorporation of a rear mounted four speed manual transmission, aluminum alloy block, and a gear-driven DOHC valvetrain. To maximize performance the Type 110 Inline-4 engine was utilized along with two Weber 40 DCOA/3 carburetors. To help lighten the weight on the track, aluminum panels were placed over a steel tube.The Mondial sported double wishbone suspension in the front and De Dion type in the rear. Both suspension systems included a Transverse Leaf Spring and Houdaille Shocks. It provided a smooth and sleek ride over terrain presented and placed first in 6 out of 8 racing events under the hand of Ascari.This beauty managed to turn out 155 mph, and was certainly a contender in its class. The series however was short lived and replaced by the now infamous Testa Rossa by 1956. Such is the way it goes in the automobile industry for racing and street car alike.The classics never lose in their appeal. The 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial Spider embodied the look and performance of excellence that people have come to expect with the Ferrari name. From the excellent coachwork from Pinn Farina and Scaglietti to the engineering prowess of Aurelio Lampredi delivered as promised.
1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial Spider Photos
