Inside the Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa: A Rare Gem at Villa D’Este

Broad Arrow Auctions will debut in the European collector car market with its first Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Auction. Taking centre stage is an exceptional piece of Ferrari history – the 1948 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa.

A Ferrari with Unmatched Pedigree

Ferrari built chassis number 004 C as one of its earliest models. The Besana brothers, among Ferrari’s first customers, purchased this Spyder Corsa, giving it a rich motorsport history. It finished sixth at the 1948 Targa Florio and raced in the 1948 and 1949 Mille Miglia. It also competed in Formula Two races and hill climbs, cementing its status as a true early racing veteran.

Preserved Originality and Racing Heritage

Unlike many historic racing cars that have undergone extensive restorations, this Ferrari remains remarkably original. It retains its factory-built bodywork by Carrozzeria Ansaloni, its 2.0-litre V12 engine, and a five-speed racing gearbox – all verified by Ferrari Classiche’s prestigious White Book certification.

This Spyder Corsa spent half a century under the care of a single family, from 1965 to 2015, further solidifying its well-documented provenance. Its accolades include a class win at the 2004 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, a Best of Show title at the 2003 Ferrari Club of America National Meet, and feature appearances at Pebble Beach’s Casa Ferrari in 2019 and 2022.

A Showpiece for Broad Arrow’s European Debut

Broad Arrow’s inaugural European auction, held in partnership with BMW AG, will take place at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como. As one of the most exclusive concours events in the world, the setting is perfect for showcasing this extraordinary Ferrari.

The auction will feature 70 of the finest collector cars, with British auctioneer Thomas Forrester leading the sale. Known for his expertise in high-profile auctions, Forrester brings decades of experience, making this a must-watch event for serious collectors.

A Rare Opportunity for Collectors

The 1948 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa is expected to fetch between €5.5 million and €7.5 million (between £4.6 million and £6.3 million). Given its rarity, originality, and motorsport legacy, it represents a significant opportunity for Ferrari collectors and motorsport historians alike.

Would you place this Ferrari among the greatest early racing cars ever built? What other classic Ferraris do you think deserve the spotlight? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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