Ferrari 375 Plus Spider

The Ferrari 375 Plus Spider, chassis 0396AM, is a car with a rich and dramatic history, marked by both racing triumphs and tragic events. Originally built in 1954, this powerful machine was campaigned by Scuderia Ferrari in some of the most grueling endurance races of its time. Its competitive debut came at the 1954 Mille Miglia, where Paolo Marzotto and Marino Marini piloted it under race number #536. Unfortunately, the car did not finish the event. However, just weeks later, it redeemed itself with a spectacular victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, driven by Froilán González and Maurice Trintignant, securing first place overall. This win solidified the 375 Plus as a dominant force in endurance racing. Later that year, the car was sold to American collector John Edgar, who entered it in the infamous 1954 Carrera Panamericana. During the race, tragedy struck when driver Ford Robinson was fatally injured in a crash on the first leg. Following the devastating accident, the car was rebodied by Scaglietti in 1955, giving it a new lease on life. The rebodied Ferrari continued to race in the U.S., driven by Jack McAfee in various competitions, including the Torrey Pines, Nassau, and Cuba Grand Prix events. Over the years, it changed hands multiple times, with notable figures like Carroll Shelby and Phil Hill among those who took the wheel. In the 1960s and beyond, the car passed through several owners, eventually ending up in France. At some point, it was restored to its original Pinin Farina Spyder configuration, undoing the Scaglietti rebody. The Ferrari 375 Plus Spider has since been displayed at prestigious events, including the Cartier ‘Hommage à Ferrari’ exhibition in Paris and the Louis Vuitton Classic. Now residing in France, this remarkable car stands as both a testament to Ferrari’s racing legacy and a poignant reminder of the risks taken by the brave drivers of the golden age of motorsport.