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Collectors Corner - Ferrari 159 Sport & Spider Corsa


60° Anniversario Circuito di Piacenza

60° Anniversario Circuito di Piacenza

 

The 159 models were part of the development process of the original 125 S model during the summer of 1947, featuring an increase in engine capacity from the original 1500cc to 1900cc, with a bore and stroke of 59mm x 58mm, and variations to the bodywork of both the cycle winged and fully enveloping bodied cars. The model made its racing debut at the Pescara circuit on the 12th of August, when Franco Cortese won his class, and finished second overall.



From historical information available, it would appear that only two examples existed, one probably being the original cycle winged 125 S model fitted with a larger engine and mildly modified bodywork, and the second a new car similarly styled to the all enveloping bodied 125 S. No examples of the model exist today.

... Ferrari 159 Sport & Spider Corsa Register >>>

By the end of 1947 Ferrari had entered cars in fourteen races, to record seven victories, and four second places, quite an impressive tally for the fledgling manufacturer.

Technical Specification

Engine

60 degr. V12, longitudinal, alloy block & cylinder heads

Timing Gear

2 valves per cylinder, single overhead camshaft per bank

Bore & Stroke

59 mm x 58 mm

Unitary Displacement

158.42 cc

Total Displacement

1901 cc

Compression Ratio

8.5 : 1

Maximum Power

125 bhp at 7000 rpm

Transmission

Dry single plate clutch, 5 speed + reverse gearbox

Chassis

Elliptical-section steel tubes

Front Suspension

Independent with transverse leaf spring and hydraulic shock absorbers

Rear Suspension

Rigid axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs and hydraulic shock absorbers

Wheelbase

2420 mm

Front Track

1255 mm

Rear Track

1200 mm

Kerb Weight

Approx. 800 kgs

Fuel Tank

72 litres


Keith Bluemel
11/2007