The 375 America series of Ferrari models was produced from late 1953 into late
1954 alongside the 250 Europa model which shared the same 2800mm
wheelbase chassis. The total production run for the two models was 31 cars,
although the breakdown has defied precise historical analysis too date. The reason
for this is that some 3 litre examples were upgraded to 4.5 litre specification, and in
some cases the reverse occurred. The majority of the series received Pinin Farina
coupe bodywork, in either three or five window form, a single Ghia coupe, with
Vignale couture on five coupes and one cabriolet. The Vignale creations really
marked the end of their relationship with Ferrari after a five year period, during which
time their variety of body styles was truly prolific.
The 375 America was powered by the Lampredi designed 4.5 litre V12 engine, with
a bore and stroke of 84mm x 68mm, that produced a claimed 300bhp at 6300rpm.
The engine had a single overhead camshaft per bank of cylinders, and was fitted
with three Weber 40 DCF carburettors. This was coupled to a four speed plus
reverse gearbox, with drive to a rigid rear axle with semi elliptic leaf springs.
The Vignale bodied 375 Americas were built on chassis numbers 0301AL, 0327AL,
and 0337AL, with 250 Europa coupes on chassis numbers 0295EU and 0313EU,
plus a 250 Europa cabriolet on chassis number 0353EU, which was one example
upgraded to a 4.5 litre engine. The body style can clearly be seen to have derived
from that used by Vignale to clothe the 340 Mexico models built for the 1953 Carrera
Panamericana road race, albeit with more rounded lines. The general features of a
large ovoid radiator grille, long front section running into a short low cabin section,
are clearly evident. This styling theme was also used on some 212 Inter models,
although no two examples are identical. Vignale crafted each car to carry its own
significant styling details, so that every client had a truly original example of his
stylistic automobile art form. The work of Vignale from this period was really full of
individualistic touches and styling flourishes, together with incredible attention to
style detail, so that the interior appointments reflected the exterior adornment,
making their heritage instantly recognisable.
The example shown is chassis number 0301AL, the first 375 America model to
receive Vignale coachwork, which carries all the attributes referred to above.
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