Ferrari 212 Inter Review, Specs And Price
The Ferrari 212 Inter, produced between 1951 and 1952, marks a pivotal model in Ferrari’s transition from purely race-focused vehicles to luxurious grand tourers. Featuring the robust Colombo V12 engine, this model was designed for both performance and comfort, appealing to the era’s elite. The 212 Inter is distinguished by its bespoke craftsmanship, with bodies by notable Italian coachbuilders, making each of its limited units unique. In this review, we will see the intricacies and legacy of the Ferrari 212 Inter, highlighting its significance in automotive history.
A Complete Ferrari 212 Inter Review
The Ferrari 212 Inter stands as a significant model in Ferrari’s storied history, bridging the gap between the marque’s early racing successes and its emerging road car business in the early 1950s. Produced between 1951 and 1952, the 212 Inter replaced the 195 and featured a more robust version of Ferrari’s Colombo V12 engine, which was enlarged to 2.6 liters to provide better low-end torque for road use.
1. Ferrari 212 Inter Design And Aesthetics
The Ferrari 212 Inter, produced in the early 1950s, is a prime example of Ferrari’s early road cars that beautifully blended sporty performance with luxury. Each model was distinct, often customized to the owner’s preferences, and showcased the craftsmanship of various prestigious Italian coachbuilders.
Exterior
The exterior of the Ferrari 212 Inter was characterized by its elegant and flowing lines, typical of the period’s grand tourers. The bodywork was executed by several renowned coachbuilders like Vignale, Ghia, and Touring, each bringing their unique flair to the final design. Vignale often opted for rounded, voluptuous shapes with bold chrome accents, while Touring’s versions were typically more restrained and aerodynamically sleek.
The cars featured long hoods to accommodate the large V12 engine, with a short rear deck, and often included luxurious details such as wire-spoke wheels, chrome grilles, and distinctive headlight treatments.
Interior Features
Inside, the 212 Inter was the epitome of luxury. The interiors were tailored to the tastes of affluent clients, featuring high-quality materials like fine leather, polished wood, and plush carpeting. The dashboard was elegantly simple yet functional, often adorned with chrome or aluminum trim to highlight the craftsmanship.
Instruments were typically large and easy to read, focused around the driver for convenience and performance driving. Despite its sports car pedigree, the cabin of the 212 Inter was designed for comfort and style, with generous padding and spacious seating arrangements to ensure a pleasant driving experience on longer journeys.
2. Ferrari 212 Inter Performance
Engine:
The Ferrari 212 Inter was equipped with a 2.6-liter V12 engine, designed by the renowned engineer Gioachino Colombo. This advanced powertrain featured three Weber carburetors which contributed to its robust performance, making it a standout during its time.
Horsepower:
Depending on the specific configuration and tuning, the engine produced between 150 and 170 horsepower. This substantial output for the early 1950s allowed the 212 Inter to deliver impressive speed and responsiveness, distinguishing it in a burgeoning market for luxury sports cars.
Acceleration:
While specific acceleration metrics like 0-60 mph times are not well-documented for this era, the 212 Inter’s power-to-weight ratio and horsepower suggest it was capable of reaching 60 mph from a standstill in approximately 10 seconds. This made it exceptionally quick for its time, offering an exhilarating driving experience.
Top Speed:
The top speed of the Ferrari 212 Inter was around 116 mph (187 km/h), a remarkable feat for road cars during the early 1950s. This speed was not just for show; it underscored the vehicle’s capabilities on both the road and the racetrack, solidifying its status as a versatile and powerful machine.
3. Ferrari 212 Inter Price
Today, the 212 Inter is considered a highly collectible classic car. Its value in the collector’s market can range dramatically depending on its provenance, condition, and the originality of its components. As of recent auctions and sales, prices for a Ferrari 212 Inter can range anywhere from $1.5 million to over $3 million, with particularly rare or well-documented examples fetching even higher prices. The significant variation in pricing is a testament to the car’s rarity, desirability, and the unique history of each unit.
4. Technical Specifications of the Ferrari 212 Inter
Here are the key technical specifications of the Ferrari 212 Inter:
- Engine Type: V12
- Displacement: 2,562 cc
- Configuration: Front-engine
- Valvetrain: SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
- Carburetion: Three Weber 36 DCF carburetors
- Power Output: Approximately 150-170 horsepower
- Top Speed: Around 116 mph (187 km/h)
- Type: 5-speed manual gearbox
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
- Construction: Steel tube frame
- Body Styles: Various, including coupes and cabriolets, bodied by multiple renowned coachbuilders like Vignale, Ghia, and Touring
- Brakes: Drum brakes on all four wheels
- Wheelbase: Approximately 2600 mm
- Length: Varies with coachbuilder design
- Width: Varies with coachbuilder design
- Height: Varies with coachbuilder design
- Front: Independent, with unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, and hydraulic shock absorbers
- Rear: Live axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs, and hydraulic shock absorbers
- Curb Weight: Varies, typically around 1,000 kg, depending on the coachbuilder and specific body style
5. Owning a Ferrari 212 Inter: Pros and Cons
Owning a Ferrari 212 Inter is a dream for many car enthusiasts. Here’s a breakdown of the good and the not-so-good to consider:
Pros:
- Investment Potential: The 212 Inter is a rare and iconic car with immense historical significance. Its value is likely to continue appreciating.
- Thrilling Performance: For its era, the 212 Inter offered exceptional speed and handling. Even today, it delivers a raw and exciting driving experience.
- Unparalleled Prestige: Owning a piece of Ferrari history is a badge of honor in the collector car world. It guarantees heads turning wherever you go.
- Work of Art: The 212 Inter’s design is timeless and elegant. It’s not just a car, it’s a rolling sculpture.
Cons:
- Cost: 212 Inters are incredibly valuable, making them out of reach for most collectors.
- Maintenance: Upkeep can be very expensive due to the car’s rarity and the specialized parts required. Finding mechanics qualified to work on such a classic can also be challenging.
- Driving Challenges: Modern cars offer superior comfort, safety features, and driving aids. The 212 Inter requires a skilled driver for smooth handling, especially compared to contemporary vehicles.
- Limited Comfort: By today’s standards, the 212 Inter has a cramped interior and lacks the amenities we expect (AC, power windows, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ferrari 212 Inter?
The Ferrari 212 Inter, sold between 1951 and 1953, is a vintage sports car known for its stunning design and powerful performance. Despite its ownership demands, it remains a sought-after model and a symbol of prestige in the automotive world.
How does the Ferrari 212 Inter compare with other vintage Ferrari models?
While each vintage model has its own unique charm, the 212 Inter is particularly noted for its impressive on-road performance and racing successes. Its distinct features set it apart from alternatives such as the Ferrari 250 and the Ferrari 195 Inter.
What is the significance of the Ferrari 212 Inter to car collectors?
The Ferrari 212 Inter, due to its rarity and historical importance, is highly valued as a collector’s item. Despite the several maintenance challenges it may pose, the car’s significance and prestige make it a rewarding acquisition for enthusiasts.
What are some standout features of the Ferrari 212 Inter’s performance?
The Ferrari 212 Inter excels in speed and racing capabilities. Its performance has been tested on the road and in competitions, consistently proving that performance and style can coexist in the world of vintage cars.
What makes the Ferrari 212 Inter a prized asset?
Besides its historical value, the Ferrari 212 Inter is seen as a symbol of prestige in the automotive world. Its unique design, speed capabilities, and racing successes contribute to its status as a treasured item for vintage car collectors.
Hi! I’m Larry Gibbs, studying mechanical engineering with a focus on cars. I really love Ferraris and write blog posts about the latest car stuff. When not studying or blogging, I’m usually on a road trip exploring new places. I also enjoy playing football and watching movies. Life’s an adventure, and I’m all about enjoying the ride!
