Ferrari CR 25

The Ferrari Studio CR 25, designed by Aldo Brovarone at Pininfarina, made its debut at the Turin Motor Show in October 1974. In 1972, Pininfarina inaugurated what was then the world’s most advanced wind tunnel, capable of testing full-scale vehicles. To demonstrate the capabilities of this facility, Pininfarina introduced the CR 25 prototype at the Turin Motor Show, showcasing their aerodynamic prowess. The concept was envisioned for Ferrari, featuring design elements that aligned with the Maranello brand’s aesthetic. The CR 25 was a two-door, four-seater coupé with a remarkably low aerodynamic drag coefficient of just 0.256, which inspired the model’s name. Although a Ferrari 12-cylinder Boxer engine was speculated for this model, it primarily served as a design exercise with little intention of mass production. Some design features, like the horizontal louvered air intake, later influenced the Ferrari Mondial series. The CR 25 incorporated several innovative elements. It featured an integrated wing within the front bumper spoiler, which lifted backward to reduce air turbulence around the wheel arches and wheels. The rear pillars had triangular sections that opened to aid deceleration, and the car boasted solid wheels for aerodynamic efficiency. The prominent bumper divided the car into two segments; the lower part included a long ventilation grille directing air towards the radiators. At the rear, Pininfarina designers added long connecting fins and a large rear window, leading to a rear spoiler with downforce functions. Despite being 4.8 meters long and only 1.1 meters high, with a 2.7-meter wheelbase, the CR 25 minimized practical compromises. The interior was notably spartan, featuring a unique cushion over the central tunnel where modern cars would have a touchscreen for infotainment. The steering wheel and gear shift were equally devoid of unnecessary embellishments. The Ferrari Studio CR 25 remains a testament to Pininfarina’s innovative design and aerodynamic experimentation, blending form and function in a concept that, while never mass-produced, influenced future Ferrari models and showcased the potential of advanced aerodynamic design.