Ferrari 166 Inter Spider Vignale

The Ferrari 166 Inter Cabriolet Vignale, chassis 0051S, is a stunning example of early Ferrari craftsmanship and design, shaped by the visionary hand of Giovanni Michelotti. Originally constructed as a coupe, this Ferrari underwent a striking transformation that would set it apart as one of the most elegant open-top Ferraris of its era. Completed on July 15, 1950, chassis 0051S was delivered in December to its first owner, Giovanni Vaccari of Milan, for a price of 2,150,000 Italian Lire. Initially built as a right-hand-drive Vignale coupe, it bore similarities to other Ferrari 166 Inters such as chassis 039 and 045, but was distinguished by the addition of a fog lamp at the front. However, in 1951, under the artistic direction of Giovanni Michelotti, the car was rebodied by Carrozzeria Vignale as a cabriolet, finished in an elegant dark blue. Michelotti’s touch was evident in the flowing lines, balanced proportions, and refined detailing that gave the car its timeless appeal. Beyond its aesthetic transformation, 0051S also received a mechanical upgrade, as its original 166 engine was replaced with a more powerful Ferrari 195 S unit equipped with triple carburetors, enhancing both its performance and driving experience. On September 18, 1951, the car was exported to Switzerland, marking the beginning of its international journey. It remained in Europe for over a decade before eventually making its way to the United States, where it resurfaced in Oklahoma in 1963. By the late 1960s, it was owned by T. Tusville Garage in Cocoa, Florida, and in 1970, it was acquired by Otto Roy Thomas Bowden of Jacksonville, Florida, who kept the car finished in red. Decades later, in 2007, 0051S returned to Europe, passing through the hands of Jean Guikas before being owned by Michel Abellan of Lausanne, Switzerland. Under Guikas’ supervision, the Ferrari underwent a meticulous restoration to restore its elegance and authenticity. In 2010, the car was offered at Bonhams’ Monaco auction with an estimated value of €1.0–1.2 million but remained unsold with a high bid of €880,000. In 2018, it underwent further improvements by Antonio Costantini in Switzerland, ensuring its continued preservation as a historically significant automobile. By January 2022, the Ferrari 166 Inter Spider Vignale 0051S was consigned to Fiskens in London, UK, further cementing its place among the world’s most sought-after classic Ferraris.