The Ferrari 212 Inter

Table of Contents:

Ferrari 212 Inter – Key Details

The Ultimate Guide to the Ferrari 212 Inter

FERRARI 212 INTER– FERRARI’S FIRST FORAY WITH PININ FARINA

While many different coachbuilders made a version of the Ferrari 212 Inter, it was Pinin Farina’s design that made headlines. You see, by 1951, the stylists over at Pinin Farina had already built a mighty reputation for themselves. By finally cementing an agreement to build cars for Ferrari, it helped legitimize the new Italian carmaker. It also represented what would become a long-term partnership between the two brands. Nowadays, Pininfarina is practically synonymous with Ferrari.

MECHANICALS AND PERFORMANCE

As the replacement for the 166 and 195, the 212 carried on in the tradition of powerful yet comfortable sports cars. And with an even larger Colombo-designed V12 up front, the 212 was one of the fastest cars in the world. Now displacing 2.6 litres, the engine produced up to 150bhp, allowing the grand tourer to reach a top speed of 200 km/h. Like the models before it, the 212 sported a double wishbone suspension up front, paired with a live rear axle.

This stout drivetrain made the 212 highly competitive. It was so good, in fact, that some of these road cars were even enjoined for use in competition. In line with the racing tradition, Ferrari initially constructed the 212 in right-hand drive only. Later, starting in 1952, the standard layout was switched to left-hand drive to appeal to a broader market.

STYLING

Even though Pinin Farina’s design was the most important, many other coachbuilders contributed designs. With over 80 models produced, there is a wide variety of styles, from Ghia’s handsome coupes to the unique-yet-gorgeous Vignale cabriolets. Ferrari also built a couple one-off models with larger 2.7-litre engines. Of these models, the one wearing a Carrozzeria Touring body was purchased by Henry Ford II. Ford wasn’t interested in the car for his own personal use, however, as the model was used as a design study for the upcoming Thunderbird.

Interestingly, the Pinin Farina designs for the Ferrari 212 Inter wound up on the conservative end of the styling spectrum. Their cabriolet body was undeniably attractive, but they hardly stand out amongst the more aggressive designs from other firms.

Ferrari 212 Inter​ – Photo Gallery

Ferrari 212 Inter – Technical Specifications

Ferrari 212 Inter – Registry & Videos

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