1951 Ferrari 212 Export Cabriolet

This 212 Export, a competition model, is one of 27 built by Ferrari specifically for competition, and one of just two completed by Vignale in cabriolet form. It was first owned by Count Sanseverino of Naples, Italy, and in 1961 it was acquired by respected Ferrari restorer and specialist David Clarke of Leicester, England. Clarke was so enamored with the Ferrari, he kept it for 40 years, until he passed, when it was purchased by revered collector Sam Mann of New Jersey. This car, as with most early Vignale creations, has several unique features, most of which have been faithfully preserved. Following its run in the Colorado Grand in 2023, this Ferrari has been diligently restored to its full factory specification and colors.

This Ferrari is one of just two 212 Exports bodied by Vignale as a Cabriolet. Upon completion of the chassis in June of 1951, Ferrari sent this Export to Turin where Alfredo Vignale bodied it in its current coachwork. Original details include a 'cruciform' grille, a fully integrated windscreen, an 'I' on the boot lid and delicate side spears. When new, it was finished in a light silver-blue, Azzurro Metallizzato, over a dark red leather interior.

The car was delivered new to Count Sanseverino. Little is known of its early years. By 1960, Graham Warner of the Chequered Flag garage in London imported the Ferrari into England and, for a short period of time, was owned by John Barham. Late in 1960, it was purchased by David Clarke. In 1963, it was given engine number 0149E. In 1988, it was reunited with its original engine.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction held in Amelia Island, Florida where it was estimated to sell for $800,000-$1,100,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $1,870,000 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2011