Discover the Untold Story of the 1951 Ferrari 212 Export – elegant, rare and truly inspiring

In the early 1950s, Ferrari was still a newcomer in the world of car manufacturing. The Ferrari 212 Export, launched during this period, showcased the company’s innovation and prowess. Yet by 1951, just four years after its founding, the company had already made a serious impression.

In 1949, its 166 MM had triumphed at both the Mille Miglia and Le Mans. These victories catapulted the Ferrari name onto the international stage. With these successes came demand from well-heeled enthusiasts. This gave Enzo Ferrari the means to continue financing his real passion – motor racing.

We saw this iconic and very rare 1951 Ferrari 212 Export Vignale Cabriolet at the 2025 Concours of Elegance held at Hampton Court Palace. This car was one of many that grabbed my attention. You can see much more Concours of Elegance content here. Additionally, check out videos on our YouTube Concours of Elegance playlist.

Innovation Fuels Competition

To stay competitive, Ferrari recognised the need to push technical boundaries. The result was the 212, a model that built directly on the strengths of the 166. It offered more power and capability.

It came in two primary forms: the Inter, designed for the road, and the Export, intended for competition. While the Inter made up the bulk of production, it was the rarer Export that carried the sharper edge.

The 212 Export also featured a more powerful version of Ferrari’s V12 engine, fed by triple carburettors. Additionally, a shorter wheelbase improved agility, and as a result, right-hand drive became standard, in keeping with racing conventions of the day.

Underneath, the car combined transverse leaf spring front suspension with a live rear axle. This was supported by semi-elliptic leaf springs and hydraulic dampers.

Coach built Beauty and Rare Craftsmanship

Just 27 examples of the Export were made. Each was clothed in bespoke bodywork by some of Italy’s leading coachbuilders, including Touring, Fontana, Motto and Vignale. Both closed Berlinetta and open Barchetta styles were offered. This depended on buyers’ tastes and intended use.

Chassis number 0106E is one of only two cabriolets completed by Vignale in this form. The other being its sister car, 0110E. In 1961, chassis 0106E became well-known enthusiast, dealer and collector David Clarke’s first Ferrari. He kept it for four decades until his passing.

Restoring a Vignale Classic

This car, carefully preserved by its small number of discerning owners, is rich in distinctive details and handcrafted features. All these details mark it out as a particularly fine example of early Vignale-bodied Ferraris.

0106E had never undergone a full cosmetic restoration. However, it was decided last year that the car would benefit from a meticulous return to its original appearance and specification. This work was entrusted to Motion Products, Inc of Neenah, Wisconsin.

Following extensive research into factory finishes, construction methods and period-correct detailing, the car was returned to its original colours and configuration. This was its first such transformation in more than half a century.

Specifications

Engine: 2562cc / V12 / naturally aspirated / SOHC
Transmission: Five-speed automated manual, RWD
Power: 175bhp
Torque: 140lb ft
Top Speed: 135mph
0-60mph: 7.5secs
Weight: 950kg

A Testament to Ferrari’s Formative Years

The 1951 Ferrari 212 Export Vignale Cabriolet stands as a beautifully preserved snapshot of Ferrari’s early brilliance. It was a time when craftsmanship and competition went hand in hand. Its rarity, elegance, and racing pedigree capture the essence of what made Maranello’s creations so desirable in the first place.

With its recent restoration returning it to original glory, chassis 0106E is not just a car but a tangible link to the dawn of Ferrari’s legend. It is a masterpiece that continues to inspire admiration more than seventy years on.

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