Fantasy Junction

Description

1951 Ferrari 340 America Spyder by Vignale
s/n 0138/A
Rosso Corsa with Tan Leather Interior

Following Lampredi’s development of the 4.5 liter V12 for use in GP cars, these famous “long block” engines found their way into sports and GT cars for the first time. The 340 America was the very first such car to receive the Lampredi motor, and most examples had a decided competition flavor. Featuring bodies by Ghia, Touring, or Vignale, just 24 examples were built, and only five with this beautiful Vignale Spyder body. The large displacement Lampredi motors of these cars transform them from comparatively delicate conventional sports cars to some of the brawnier and more visceral Ferrari creations.

This particular car was previously the property of the infamous Lord Brocket. The car was partially destroyed during his ownership, and was reconstituted by the highly
regarded DK Engineering after being recovered. The car is currently fitted with 250 engine number 1241GT, and also includes the original 340 engine, number 0138, which is currently disassembled and has one cracked cylinder head.

Following the restoration by DK, the car is in very fine cosmetic condition. It presents as a nicely cared for car with a high caliber restoration that has seen only light use since. The paintwork was completed to high standards and the body is excellent. There is a handful of small stone chips from regular use, but the paintwork and body are otherwise excellent. The chrome is very good overall, with light pitting only, and the wheels are in very nice shape. The lamps are excellent, including the Marchal headlamps.

The interior is in equally nice shape, with a light patina to the driver’s seat, but few other signs of wear. The dashboard is simple and elegant, and is punctuated by two large and nicely detailed combined function instruments. The floors are covered with the correct diamond pattern rubber matting, and the steering wheel is in very nice shape, having been included in the restoration.

The engine compartment is very clean and nicely detailed. While a later 250 engine is currently fitted, the engine is correct in appearance, with correct early air filter housings and yellow fuel lines. The inner fenders, engine, and ancillaries are in very fine shape and are nicely detailed. The trunk is also detailed and very clean, and is occupied by the spare wheel and large competition capacity fuel tank. The correct drilled battery bracket is in place as well. The car drives and performs extremely well, with the inimitable open air Ferrari experience. The gearbox, motor, and chassis are well-resolved and coherent in feel, and the car is an unusually fine-driving example.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire an extremely rare and attractive car that is in superb shape. The body is among the most attractive early Ferraris made, and it has been very nicely restored. It would make an excellent event car for events such as the Mille Miglia or Colorado Grand, thanks to its early build date and accordingly widespread eligibility.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608