1953 Ferrari 250 Europa

Ferrari's first proper V12 Gran Turismo

If, like me, few things set your heart on fire, be assured the 1953 Ferrari 250 Europa has mine ablaze. The aesthetic design from Pinin Farina takes your breath away, and sealed future collaborations for the design house that reverberates to the Ferrari’s of today.

Unveiled at the 1953 Paris Motor Show, the Ferrari 250 Europa was Ferrari’s first proper GT. The long hood hides the Aurelio Lampredi-designed V12. A short cabin gives the 2+2 timeless elegance, though the rear seats aren’t of much use, except for luggage.  

Only 17 examples of the Europa were built by Pinin Farina, of which 16 were coupes. Most were exported to the United States. Notable owners were Charlie Chaplin, and Enzo Ferrari himself. 

EXPLORE

1953 FERRARI 250 EUROPA COUPE BY PININ FARINA, chassis 0305 EU crossed the block at RM Sotheby’s in 2014 for  $2.7 million. The interior was finished in Marrone leather. The exterior featured one unusual feature, the gas tank lid was placed on the driver’s side rear three-quarter panel. In other Europas it could only be accessed through the trunk. The four corners where shod with garish white-wall tires.

WATCH

Moving into 1954, The Ferrari 250 Europa became the 250 Europa GT and was the first road car to use the Colombo 250 V12. It’s also the first Ferrari to use the Gran Turismo (GT) label. Admire the fine lines and listened to the gorgeous sound of the V12 in this short video of a 1955 Ferrari 250 Europa GT.