Ferrari 166 Inter Siluro

The 1950 Ferrari 166 Inter Siluro by Carrozzeria Vignale is a unique and fascinating example of early Ferrari craftsmanship. Commissioned as a one-off design, this car was shaped by the visionary work of Giovanni Michelotti, featuring distinctive styling elements such as a bold T-shaped grille and a wrap-around rear window. This element, previously observed on the Fiat 1400 Orchidea, enhances the vehicle’s streamlined appearance and contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. However, beyond its aesthetics, the 166 Inter Siluro has a rich and varied history, spanning multiple continents and owners. Originally delivered to Inico Bernabei of Rome on January 24, 1951, the car was first registered under “Roma A13387.” Shortly thereafter, its engine was upgraded to 195 specifications, increasing its performance capabilities. Later that same year, ownership passed to Luciano Spinotti of Perugia, Italy. By 1952, the car had left Europe, making its way across the Atlantic to Florida, marking the beginning of its American chapter. In 1957, famed European car importer Max Hoffman acquired the 166 Inter Siluro in New York, a name synonymous with bringing prestigious European sports cars to the U.S. automotive market. The car continued changing hands over the years, passing through multiple American collectors, including Tom Butt (1965), Robert B. Ford (1966), and Bentley N. Scott (1968) of Jacksonville, Florida. Later in 1968, Carl deBickero of Chicago, Illinois, took ownership before the car was listed for sale in Road & Track in July 1970 for $3,000. The car found a new owner in Ernest D. Mendicki of Monte Vista, California, in 1971, and in 1972, it was again offered for sale in Road & Track. That same year, Robert A. Johnson of Escondido, California, acquired it and modified its rear fenders. It continued to reside in California, later owned by Robert Gatien and Roy Taylor. In 1980, it was offered by Fantasy Junction in Berkeley, California, and in 1982, Steve Forristall’s G.T. Cars in Houston, Texas, listed it for $55,000. During the 1980s, the car changed hands several times, moving to Mexico with Lorenzo Zambrano before being acquired by William B. Jacobs of Joliet, Illinois. By 1986, it was offered for $75,000 through EAS in Costa Mesa, California. In 1987, it returned to Italy under the ownership of Giorgio Schoen, registered as “MI 8E1914.” Schoen entered the car in the prestigious Mille Miglia in 1987 and 1988, where it was driven by Roda and Serena di Lapigio in 1987 (#248) and Roda and Frigerio in 1988 (#169). It attempted another Mille Miglia run in 1995 but did not start. In 2001, it appeared at the renowned Villa d’Este Concours d’Elegance, continuing its legacy as a significant piece of Ferrari history.