A 1951 Ferrari 212 Inter with a body from the renowned Italian coachbuilder Ghia would undoubtedly steal the show at any classic car auction. However, this particular beauty has never graced the auction block, making it an exceptionally rare find.
Recently featured on the popular show “Jay Leno’s Garage,” this Ferrari holds the distinction of being the longest-owned Ferrari in existence. Its original owner, Rodolfo Junco de la Vega, purchased the 212 in the 1950s and had the privilege of being personally instructed by the mechanics at the Ferrari factory on how to properly maintain it. He even had the opportunity to meet the legendary Enzo Ferrari himself. After Rodolfo’s passing at the remarkable age of 98, the car was passed down to his son, Thaddeus Foster, who proudly states that the car remains “all original except for the paint and the carpet.”
When the 212 was introduced in 1950, Ferrari was still a relatively young company, but it was steadily gaining momentum. The 212 boasted the iconic Colombo V-12 engine, with a displacement of 2.5 liters and an impressive power output of 150 horsepower. This power was transmitted to the rear wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience.
One of the notable advancements of the 212 was the introduction of a tubular chassis, which aimed to enhance rigidity. This chassis design became the foundation for various iterations of the 212. Ferrari offered the 212 in Export and more refined Inter specifications, with a wide range of body styles provided by renowned coachbuilders. In addition to Ghia, esteemed names such as Pininfarina, Touring, and Vignale all contributed their expertise to crafting bodies for the exceptional 212 series.
Related Post
The production of the 212 was relatively brief, lasting only until 1953. The specific car featured here was constructed in 1951 but is titled as a 1952 model. Interestingly, due to its originality, it reveals that Ferrari’s manufacturing processes were not as precise during that era. As Thaddeus Foster explains in the video, the bolts on the car are of varying sizes because the mechanics simply used whatever was readily available.
When it comes to classic Ferraris, fully restored models often fetch astronomical prices at auctions, easily reaching into the millions of dollars. However, as Jay Leno astutely points out in the video, there is a certain unparalleled charm that comes from driving an original, unrestored car. The patina, the wear and tear, and the subtle imperfections all contribute to a unique driving experience that cannot be replicated.
This 1951 Ferrari 212 Inter with its Ghia body exemplifies the true essence of a classic car. Its remarkable history, from being owned by one individual for an extended period to having a direct connection to Enzo Ferrari himself, solidifies its place as a truly exceptional automobile. With its originality preserved, it represents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike to own a piece of automotive history. Should this remarkable Ferrari ever make its way to the auction stage, it is sure to captivate the hearts of classic car aficionados worldwide.
