1957 Ferrari 500 TRC Scaglietti Spyder

500 TRC Scaglietti Spyder image

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The Ferrari 500 TRC Scaglietti Spyder 1957 is a stunning example of engineering excellence in the automotive world. Built by the renowned Italian automobile manufacturer Ferrari, the 500 TRC Scaglietti Spyder is a classic racer car that is widely recognized as one of the most sought-after vintage cars amongst car enthusiasts.

Distinctive and impressive, this iconic model was produced between 1956 and 1957, and only 19 examples were built. It was designed for endurance racing, particularly for the likes of the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans race.

The 500 TRC Scaglietti Spyder is fitted with a powerful, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder Type 131 engine, which is capable of producing an impressive 187 horsepower at 7200 rpm. This high-revving engine was coupled with a reliable four-speed manual transmission, which provided lightning-fast gear changes, making it ideal for racing. The engine also features a dual-ignition system, enhancing performance by improving the ignition of the fuel mixture.

The characteristic of this car is its unique and stylish bodywork, which was crafted by the famous Ferrari designer Sergio Scaglietti. The sleek and aerodynamic body features a hand-formed aluminum bodyshell, with a long nose, curvaceous fenders, and a short tail. The body was developed with a sharp focus on reducing weight, improving air flow, and increasing structural rigidity, ensuring the car maintained its racing prowess.

The 500 TRC Scaglietti Spyder rides on a custom-built chassis that has been developed to offer maximum grip, stability, and durability on the track. The car's suspension is comprised of upper and lower independent wishbones and coil springs. The rear suspension features a shock absorber in a transverse position, while the front suspension includes hydraulic dampers, enabling precise handling of the car.

Stopping power was provided by the Girling disc brakes, which were fitted on all four corners, allowing the car to stop on a dime, which was especially necessary for endurance racing.

The interior of the 500 TRC Scaglietti Spyder is uncompromisingly spartan, with the emphasis on driving, safety, and weight reduction. The car's cockpit is fitted with bucket seats, a thin-rimmed steering wheel, and a minimalist dashboard, which includes only the necessary driving instruments.

As with all Ferrari cars, the 500 TRC Scaglietti Spyder is a true masterpiece of innovation and creativity, which has made it a highly desirable car. This car is considered an automotive icon, with its cutting-edge performance, distinctive design, and rich racing heritage, which has cemented its place in the history of the automotive industry.

Milestones

- Introduction of the Ferrari 500 TRC Scaglietti Spyder in 1957 - Designed by coachbuilder Sergio Scaglietti - Powered by a 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine - Featured a lightweight tubular steel chassis - Won the 1957 Nassau Trophy Race in the hands of Masten Gregory - Finished 4th overall at the 1957 24 Hours of Le Mans with drivers Olivier Gendebien and Wolfgang von Trips - Often raced in the US by privateer drivers in SCCA events - Limited production run of only 19 examples - Contributed to Ferrari's dominance in sports car racing during the 1950s and 60s - Considered a highly desirable and sought-after collector car today.


Technical

• Engine: 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, DOHC engine • Maximum power: 190 horsepower at 7,300 RPM • Maximum torque: 137 lb-ft at 6,200 RPM • Transmission: Four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive • Rear-wheel drive • Top speed: 140 mph (225 km/h) • Acceleration: 0-60 mph in around six seconds • Suspension: Independent suspension with double wishbones and coil springs • Brakes: Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes • Steering: Rack and pinion • Wheelbase: 2,250 mm (88.6 in) • Length: 3,950 mm (155.5 in) • Width: 1,500 mm (59 in) • Height: 1,120 mm (44.1 in) • Weight: 730 kg (1,609 lbs) • Body style: Scaglietti Spyder • Production years: 1957-1958 • Units produced: 19 • Racing history: Multiple wins in various racing events in the late 1950s

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