Ferrari 375 Coupé America

The Ferrari 375 America chassis 0293AL., introduced in October 1953, continued the tradition of placing the “America” moniker on the company’s most exclusive, large-displacement road cars. Replacing the limited-production 342 America, the 375 America was a grand touring Ferrari featuring a massive V-12 engine on the longest chassis Ferrari had built at the time. This engine, a Lampredi-type unit, was based on Ferrari’s Grand Prix and sports racing cars, displacing 4.5 liters and delivering 300 bhp at 6,300 rpm through three Weber 40 mm carburetors. The 375 America was unmatched in power, boasting a top speed of 155 mph. Designed for a discerning clientele, only 12 of these extraordinary automobiles were built, including two converted from the three-liter 250 Europa. Most were styled by Pinin Farina, with four chassis entrusted to Vignale. Pinin Farina’s designs, featuring an imposing eggcrate grille, elegant proportions, and restrained sporting lines, helped define the traditional “Ferrari look.” Interiors were luxuriously appointed for comfortable two-person touring, with ample luggage space. Original owners included notable figures such as Fiat boss Gianni Agnelli and various American sportsmen. The 375 America, chassis 0293 AL, is particularly noteworthy as it was the first of the series and debuted at the prestigious Salon de l’Automobile in Paris in 1953. This car, distinguished by a wide chrome band surrounding the grille opening, was originally finished in Azzurro with a Grigio roof and natural Connolly leather upholstery. After its show duties, 0293 AL was sold to Howard Brighton Keck of Los Angeles, a prominent oil executive and automobile enthusiast. Keck’s racing team had won the Indianapolis 500 in 1953 and 1954, and he had previously purchased a Ferrari 375 F1. He enjoyed the 375 America for a few years before placing it in long-term storage. In 1987, after being in storage for 30 years, it was sold to Thomas W. Barrett III, who repainted it in Italian Racing Red and sold it to Hans Thulin of Sweden. The car changed hands again in 1992, and by 2008, it was owned by a collector who exhibited it at various prestigious events. The Ferrari underwent a ground-up restoration to its original color scheme, earning numerous awards, including a Second in Class at Pebble Beach and the Ferrari Award at Amelia Island. As the first of its kind, 0293 AL has been recognized with a FIVA Identity Card and Ferrari Classiche certification, confirming its original chassis, coachwork, and engine. With its Paris show car pedigree and Keck family provenance, the 375 America remains a captivating example of Ferrari’s grand touring legacy.