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Ferrari 375 America 4.5 V12 (300 Hp)
Overall Rating
Ferrari 375:
After finding only modest success with the supercharged 125 F1 car in Formula One, Ferrari decided to switch for 1950 to the naturally aspirated 4. 5-litre formula for the series. Calling in Aurelio Lampredi to replace Gioacchino Colombo as technical director, Enzo Ferrari directed that the company work in stages to grow and develop an entirely new large-displacement V12 engine for racing.
The first outcome of Lampredi's work was the experimental 275 S. Just two of these racing barchettas were built, based on the 166 MM but using the experimental 3. 3-litre V12. These were raced at the Mille Miglia of 1950 on April 23. Although one car held the overall lead for a time, both were forced to retire with mechanical failure before the end....(Read more on Wikipedia)
America Overview:
Ferrari 375 (America). Weighing only 1150 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.
As a vehicle from the 1950s, the Ferrari 375 America predates modern safety standards and testing protocols like Euro NCAP. It offers minimal passive safety features by contemporary measures.
4.5 V12 (300 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 4.5 V12 engine delivers exhilarating performance for its time, offering a top speed of 250 km/h thanks to its robust 300 Hp and a relatively light kerb weight. It provides a thrilling, classic grand touring experience.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is not a primary consideration for this vintage V12, with its large displacement and carburettor system. Expect high fuel consumption typical of powerful luxury cars from the 1950s.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic Ferrari V12 engine with impressive power for its era.
- • Exceptional rarity and collector's value.
- • Stunning coach-built design and luxurious appointments.
- • Authentic grand touring experience.
- • Significant historical importance in Ferrari's lineage.
Cons:
- • Very high acquisition and maintenance costs.
- • Lacks modern safety features and conveniences.
- • Challenging to drive by modern standards (drum brakes, manual steering).
- • Poor fuel economy.
- • Limited practicality for daily use.
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Ferrari |
| Model: | 375 |
| Generation: | America |
| Modification (Engine): | 4.5 V12 (300 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1953 |
| End of production: | 1954 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 2 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 300 Hp @ 6300 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 66.3 Hp/l |
| Engine displacement: | 4522 |
| Number of cylinders: | 12 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 68 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 8:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 3.8 kg/Hp, 260.9 Hp/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1150 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 140 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 2800 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1325 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1320 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Drum |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Tires size | 215/75 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Leaf spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
Your first impression of the Ferrari 375 in one word? Go!