The Iconic 1950 Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo’ to Star at Salon Privé Concours Presented by Aviva Private Clients
The 2024 Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients at Blenheim Palace is set to showcase an extraordinary automotive marvel, the unique 1950 Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo’. This event, taking place from August 28-29, promises an unparalleled opportunity to witness a car that is rarely seen at concours events.
Affectionately named ‘Uovo’—Italian for ‘egg’—this futuristic Ferrari’s distinctive design is poised to captivate attendees at the UK’s most exclusive automotive garden party. Its aerodynamic shape was masterminded by racing driver Giannino Marzotto, who, alongside his brother Vittorio, sought to push the boundaries of high-speed road racing performance.
The ‘Uovo’ was conceived with input from renowned coachbuilder Paolo Fontana and gifted engineer Franco Reggiani. Aiming to enhance Ferrari’s already impressive V12 engines with superior aerodynamics, Marzotto and his team envisioned a sleek, rounded coupé. Reggiani, leveraging his aeronautical expertise, crafted the bodywork from ‘Peraluman’, a lightweight aluminium-magnesium alloy, resulting in a car that combined beauty with functionality.
One of the most striking features of the ‘Uovo’ is its innovative design, which includes braided steel cables instead of traditional A-pillars and a shallow Perspex windscreen. The driver’s seat, positioned towards the rear, offers an optimal perception of oversteer, a design choice endorsed by Enzo Ferrari himself.
Initially, the car’s construction faced delays due to late chassis deliveries. Consequently, the team utilized a 166 MM Touring Barchetta chassis, later fitting it with a 2.6-litre V12 engine from a 212 Export. This powerful engine, producing 190bhp, was complemented by an extra-large fuel tank, ideal for long-distance races. These features contributed to the ‘Uovo’ leading the 1951 Mille Miglia and securing victory at the Coppa della Toscana the same year.
Following its triumphs in Italy, the ‘Uovo’ continued to make its mark, including a notable victory at the 1952 Trento-Bondone hill climb. After a stint in North America, it was retired to a private collection, emerging occasionally, such as at Ferrari’s 50th-anniversary celebration at the Museo Enzo Ferrari in 1997.
Andrew Bagley, Chairman of the Salon Privé Concours, expressed his excitement: “This exceptional car has been something of an undiscovered gem for decades. It is an icon that has spent its life largely hidden behind closed doors, so I am thrilled that we have secured it to be one of the star draws at Blenheim Palace this August. I know it will be a memorable attraction for our guests, who will relish the opportunity to finally see this wonderfully unique and iconic Ferrari up close.”
As Salon Privé celebrates its 19th year, it continues to solidify its reputation as the pinnacle of automotive elegance. Enthusiasts and collectors are eagerly anticipating the chance to see the ‘Uovo’ alongside other spectacular entries in categories such as Porsche ‘RS’ Pre-2004 and Legendary Liveries.
To enter a vehicle into the 2024 Salon Privé Concours, interested parties should contact Concours Coordinator Nick Wilkes at +44 (0) 7795 213 361 or via email at [email protected]. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to be part of an event where automotive history comes to life.
