Ferrari: The Italian Dream Machine
When you think of classic autos that you would love to own, at or near the top of everyone’s list would be a Ferrari. With sleek lines, smooth handling and with a history of speed and success in some of the world’s most famous races, it’s no wonder that Ferrari is one of the most beloved cars.
Early History of Ferrari (1929 – 1947)
When Enzo Ferrari formed Scuderia Ferrari (Ferrari Stable) in 1929, he did so to support race drivers in Italy. Ferrari created cars for race drivers in Alfa Romeo cars until 1938, when Alfa Romeo hired Ferrari to lead their auto racing enterprise. Unfortunately, with the approaching War, the Alfa Romeo Company was taken over by the Italian government. Ferrari continued to work for Alfa Romeo until 1947, when he formed his own car company.
- Early Years: Ferrari’s early years at Alfa Romeo
- Ferrari Early Years: early racing career of Enzo Ferrari
- Ferrari Biography: biography of auto manufacturer Enzo Ferrari
Later Years of Ferrari (1947 – present)
Ferrari created his first on-road car in 1947, and although he did not want to become a car manufacturer for consumers, he needed to see cars to support his Scuderia Ferrari race teams. For the next 40 years, Enzo Ferrari continued to produce beautiful automobiles for the public. The last car produced by Enzo Ferrari was in 1988, when he passed away. Presently the Fiat Car Company controls the Ferrari brand.
- Ferrari Timeline: listing of important events in Ferrari history
- Ferrari FAQs: information on the history of Ferrari
- Scuderia Ferrari: resource on the racing history of Ferrari
Sports Car Racing
While the Ferrari name is well known as a street car, Ferrari has always been a racing brand, and has had tremendous success in racing. The Ferrari name has been in many of the top sports car series. The World Sportscar Championship was established in 1953, featuring several races including the 24 hours of Daytona, the 24 hours of LeMans and the 12 hours of Sebring auto races. During the first 9 years of the championship series, Ferrari won the championship 7 years. Scuderia Ferrari ceased participating in sports car racing in 1973, however, the success they had has been remarkable.
- LeMans History: summary of racing at LeMans
- Sebring Racing: information on racing at Sebring
- Sports Car Racing: history of the 24 hours of Daytona road race
Formula 1 Racing
In addition to the success in sports car racing, Ferrari has had a long and storied history of participating in Formula 1 racing, which is the top racing series in the world. Team Ferrari began racing in Formula 1 in 1950, which was the first year of the series, and picked up their first win one year later. Over the next 50+ years, Ferrari became one of the most dominant names in Formula 1. During that time frame Ferrari drivers won 15 world drivers championships, the team won 16 constructors championships and overall Ferrari cars have taken the checkered flags 209 times.
- Formula 1 Racing: history of Ferrari in Formula 1 racing
- Formula 1 History: Ferrari racing in Formula 1
- Team Ferrari: history of Ferrari racing in Formula 1
Ferrari Models
Since the creation of the first Ferrari road model, the 125S, Ferrari has produced a number of road vehicles. They include the 166 Inter, 612 Scaglietti and the Testarossa. The road models gave car enthusiasts the opportunity to purchase cars with the heart of a champion.
- Classic Cars: classic cars manufactured by Ferrari
- Ferrari Cars: resource with specifications and details
The horse logo of Ferrari is one of the most recognizable brands in the automotive industry, and the Ferrari is still one of the most wanted autos in the world. If you own a Ferrari, it may not be your choice to donate a car. However, with the looks, handling and speed of the Ferrari, it’s easy to see why Ferrari is the Italian Dream Machine – and if you own one that you no longer need or want – your Ferrari car donation can make the dream of someone in need come true.