Ferrari 400 Superamerica (1959–1964)
The Ferrari 400 Superamerica, produced between 1959 and 1964, was a bespoke grand tourer tailored for Ferrari’s most elite clientele. It succeeded the 410 Superamerica and preceded the 500 Superfast, carrying forward Ferrari’s tradition of ultra-luxury V12 GTs with unmatched style and engineering finesse.
The 400 Superamerica debuted at the 1959 Turin Motor Show with a one-off Coupé Speciale built for Fiat chairman Gianni Agnelli. This early car featured a unique wraparound windshield and marked a shift in naming convention—“400” referring to total displacement (~4.0 litres), not per-cylinder capacity.
Powered by the Tipo 163 4.0-litre Colombo V12, the model produced 340–400 hp and was paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. Performance was top-tier for its time, reaching speeds up to 265 km/h. The chassis used a tubular steel frame, with front independent suspension and a rear live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
Production and Series
Production spanned two distinct series:
- Series I (SWB) – Short 2420 mm wheelbase, included both Coupé and Cabriolet versions. Around 25 units were built.
- Series II (LWB) – Extended 2600 mm wheelbase, more spacious and refined. This included the striking Coupé Aerodinamico, inspired by the Superfast II show car. Approximately 22 units were completed.
All cars were coachbuilt by Pininfarina, offering a mix of open and closed bodywork—each tailored to individual buyer specifications.
Ferrari 400 Superamerica SWB Cabriolet by Pinin Farina
The 1960 Ferrari 400 Superamerica SWB Cabriolet by Pinin Farina is among the rarest and most refined open-top Ferraris ever built. As one of just seven short-wheelbase cabriolets produced, it showcased Pinin Farina’s masterful balance of elegance and performance. Built on a 2,420 mm wheelbase chassis and powered by a 4.0-liter Colombo V12 delivering around 340 horsepower, the Cabriolet combined grand touring comfort with the performance expected of Ferrari’s flagship. Its flowing bodywork, chrome details, and bespoke interior reflected the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship. Unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show, the car set a new standard for luxury convertibles and remains one of the most desirable 1960s Ferraris among collectors today.
1960 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Cabrio, chassis 1945SA
Credit: RM Sotheby’s
Ferrari 400 Superamerica SWB Coupé Aerodinamico
The Ferrari 400 Superamerica SWB Coupé Aerodinamico, introduced in the early 1960s, epitomizes the fusion of cutting-edge design and high-performance engineering. Drawing inspiration from the Superfast II concept car, Pininfarina crafted a streamlined body featuring a tapered nose, flowing fender lines, and a fastback rear, enhancing both aesthetics and aerodynamics. Built on a short 2,420 mm wheelbase, only 17 of these exclusive coupés were produced, each tailored to the specifications of Ferrari’s elite clientele.
Under the hood, the Coupé Aerodinamico housed the Tipo 163 4.0-liter Colombo V12 engine, delivering approximately 340 horsepower. This powerplant, combined with a four-speed manual transmission and overdrive, enabled the car to achieve impressive performance figures for its time. The interior was appointed with luxurious materials, reflecting Ferrari’s commitment to bespoke craftsmanship.
Notably, chassis number 2631 SA, the fifth example produced, gained prominence after being featured on the cover of Car and Driver in April 1963. Originally finished in Blu Lancia over light blue leather, it was delivered to Italian industrialist Emanuele Rivetti in November 1961. The car later passed through the hands of notable American collectors, including John Mecom Jr. Certified by Ferrari Classiche in 2011, 2631 SA underwent extensive restoration between 2014 and 2018, ensuring its preservation as a quintessential example of the model.
The 400 Superamerica SWB Coupé Aerodinamico remains a testament to Ferrari’s dedication to innovation, luxury, and performance, securing its place as a coveted classic among enthusiasts and collectors alike.
1961 Ferrari 400 Superamerica SWB Coupe Aerodinamico by Pininfarina, chassis 2631 SA
Credit: RM Sotheby’s
Year-to-Year Changes
- 1959 – Debut of the Agnelli Coupé Speciale prototype.
- 1960 – Series I enters production with SWB; Coupé and Cabriolet bodies offered.
- 1961 – Aerodinamico Coupé introduced, featuring enclosed headlights and improved streamlining.
- 1962 – Introduction of Series II with LWB chassis and updated aesthetics.
- 1964 – Final models delivered, concluding a five-year run of only 47 units in total.
Legacy
Today, the 400 Superamerica stands among the most coveted collector Ferraris, admired for its rarity, handcrafted elegance, and status as a symbol of 1960s Italian automotive luxury. Its styling, engineering, and exclusivity would influence Ferrari’s next generation of grand tourers.
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