THE COUNTDOWN OF OUR FAVOURITE RACING FERRARIS
The wraps came off the Ferrari SF21 in the build-up to the three-day pre-season grand prix test session at Bahrain, and it is the machine that the Italian firm finally hopes that either Charles Leclerc or Carlos Sainz can push the sleeping giants back to the top step of the podium.
The launch of any new Ferrari creates a buzz of excitement. There is something about the red cars that stirs the blood. While grand prix machines these days bear a striking resemblance to each other, that hasn’t always been the case.
Ferrari has a heritage that is unmatched in motorsport, and we have set out on a task to narrow it down and pick out our favourite competition Ferraris.
Sportscar and GT racing was as much of a playground for the famous firm as grand prix racing was, so it is only right that we include the roofed racers here too.
Here are our results. If you disagree, feel free to let us know by emailing matt.james@kelsey.co.uk.
Expert panel: David Addison (MN columnist at large and ace talker); Rob Austin (historic F1 racer); Ben Edwards (Formula 1 commentator); Ian Flux (he’s driven a few things); Tim Harvey (BTCC champion); Matt James (MN editor); Graham Keilloh (MN deputy editor); Paul Lawrence (MN historic editor); Graham Lister (MN’s rally guru); Calum Lockie (Ferrari fan and historic racing pacesetter); Tiff Needell (Former F1 driver); Steve Rider (motorsport guru).
10 Ferrari 312
The three-litre era for Formula 1 spawned a number of remarkable innovations, included among them the Cosworth DFV that went on to power a phalanx of grand prix winners.
Ferrari, though, stuck to its 12-cylinder guns when the new dawn broke on motorsport’s topflight in 1966. The powerplant was sleeved down from the 3.3-litre version that was being used in the 275P2 sportscar, which meant it was heavier than any bespoke motor. The initial machine was
