Ferrari 340 America Ghia

The Ferrari 340 America Ghia painted in red, bearing chassis number 0150/A, showcases coachwork by Ghia. This vehicle boasts an aerodynamic body design and is equipped with pushbutton, flush-mounted door handles. The powerful Lampredi powerplant is skillfully concealed beneath the elongated hood. The engine’s construction was finalized in July 1951, while the chassis was completed towards the end of the same year. The rolling chassis was then dispatched to Ghia, where it underwent the transformation into a two-seater, two-door coupe configuration. The initial owner of this vehicle was Antonio Parravano from Inglewood, California. The vehicle participated in various races during its early years. One of its most notable appearances was in the 1952 Carrera Panamericana Mexico race. This race is known for its challenging nature, putting both the driver and the car to the test. To prepare the vehicle for this demanding race, several modifications were made. These included equipping it with Halibrand wheels, a magneto ignition system, larger drilled and vented brake drums, special scoops and ducts, and more. The vehicle was assigned the number 17 and was accompanied by three other 340 Mexico’s. Unfortunately, one of the 340 Mexico’s crashed, while another experienced a gearbox failure. However, the third 340 Mexico, driven by Luigi Chinetti and Jean Lucas, managed to secure a third-place finish. Another Ferrari model, the 340 America driven by Ernie McAfees, crossed the finish line in fifth place. The automobile proceeded to participate in different racing ventures. Over the years, it changed hands multiple times before being presented at the 2006 RM Auction in Monterey, CA, where its estimated selling price ranged from $900,000 to $1,200,000. It still possesses numerous original elements, such as the body, chassis, and drive-train. Among the four 340 America’s bodied by Ghia, it stands as the sole vehicle with such an esteemed racing background. Ultimately, on the day of the auction, the vehicle was successfully sold to a new owner for $852,500.