When we think about American-related automobiles made in 1959, the first model in mind for many enthusiasts is likely covered in chrome and sporting impressive tailfins. And yet, there was another vision of the future, tastefully made by hand in Italy in small quantities and reserved only for the most valued clients of Enzo Ferrari. This stunning example, chassis and engine no. 1305 SA, is a figurehead of RM Sotheby’s signature auction and represents one of the most exclusive road cars to ever sport a prancing horse badge. In honor of Ferrari Friday, we proudly present this one-of-twelve Series III Ferrari 410 Superamerica, available this Saturday in Monterey:
1959 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Coupe Series III by Pinin Farina
Estimate: $6,000,000 - $8,000,000 USD
For an automobile made at the peak of the tailfin craze, this handmade Pinin Farina body is graceful in its form as it is tasteful in its features. The black-and-chrome effect made a most elegant combination, especially in the era of whitewall tires, and even more so because of this example’s relative rarity. Of the twelve total Series III Superamerica grand tourers ever built, this example is the only one optioned from new with Nero Tropicale IVI paint. Also, specified as-new from the factory on this example is its luxurious Pelle Naturale Connolly interior.
From the driver’s seat, this commanding cockpit is one that has been experienced only by a select few. Even from its inception, Ferrari intended all models of the 410 Superamerica to be reserved for his most treasured clientele. Quite literally the choice conveyance of royalty, including Shah of Iran Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and Vietnamese emperor Bao Dai, Superamerica models offered nearly all the personalization options of coachbuilt-style construction with the motorsport-derived technological advancements pioneered by Ferrari.
The generous hood of this limited-edition model contains the long-block Lampredi engine—based on the same advanced 4.9-liter powerplant that Scuderia Ferrari used to succeed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1954. But since that success, Ferrari engineers had been tirelessly working to increase the output from their already-stout twelve-cylinder, creating the Tipo 126A/58 engine with all-new connecting rods fashioned from polished billet steel, redeveloping an all-new head with outside spark plugs for easier maintenance, and fitting the finishing touch, a bank of Weber 36 DCF 3 carburetors.
Though the previous Superamerica series was originally on sale a mere three years prior to the debut of the Series III at the Paris Salon de l'Automobile on 13 October 1958, the Ferrari engineers managed to deliver an additional forty horsepower from the Tipo 126A/58, bringing the total output up to an even 400 horsepower. A new headlight covering, sculpted in an aerodynamic form to better flow with the front fenders, was a signature of the Series III models and presaged the look of many future Ferrari grand touring variants. Another upgraded surprise can be found behind the handsome chrome wheels.
Browsing the history file on chassis no. 1305 SA is well worth the time it takes to register with RM Sotheby’s, as it will give you access to this example’s full Ferrari Classiche certificate, which accompanies the sale. Contained within are the largest drum brakes ever fitted to a Ferrari grand touring car—the formidable Al-Fin model—which were originally specified on this example, unique even among the twelve Series III Superamerica sports cars, and fortunately retained on the car still today. One other item that makes this example unique is the supremely tasteful tailfins around undeniably subtle rear taillights, which required Pinin Farina’s talented craftsman to entirely re-shape the rear fenders.
Of course, any handcrafted artifact like this requires an equally expert approach when it comes to restoration. Chassis no. 1305 SA was treated to the unparalleled service that clients have come to expect from the regularly heralded team at RM Auto Restoration. After confirming the original Pinin Farina serial numbers on the panels, bumpers, and trim pieces, the team set to work bringing this Superamerica back to its original glory. The finished product, resplendent in its original Nero Tropicale-over-Naturale color combination, has already won the attention of prestigious auto shows, earning a Best in Class award at the 2020 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, and a prestigious Platinum Award at the 2021 Cavallino Classic.
The appeal of any ultra-exclusive Ferrari endures for a reason. With limited quantities from new, and special features sported on examples such as this, the 410 Superamerica Series III remains the choice of connoisseurs—favored by those Ferrari fans who wish to own something truly exclusive and distinctive. For any automobile aficionados who are truly passionate about the prancing horse brand, RM Sotheby’s Monterey 2021 auction is a must-watch event and the place where the next chapter of this fascinating Ferrari will begin.
