1950 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa

Working in modest surroundings with engineers Giochino Colombo, Guiseppe Busso and eventually Aurelio Lampredi, Enzo Ferrari was quickly able to accomplish his singular vision: to develop a powerful, reliable and smooth competition motor using a V12 configuration. In May of 1947, the Tipo 125 was first driven competitively by Franco Cortese at a regional event held at the Piaceuza circuit. Cortese led the race until the final lap when the fuel pump failed. This 125 finished the remainder of the season with success and it became increasingly evident to Ferrari that his engine provided an excellent basis for further development. The Tipo 125 was enlarged from 1497cc to 1902cc to become the Tipo 159. In 1948 it was enlarged again to 1995cc, becoming the Tipo 166, with 166.25cc per cylinder.

The 166, raced throughout the season against stiff competition from Maserati, Alfa Romeo and Cisiralia, won the two most important races, the Mille Miglia and the...