FYI: Discover the story behind New Zealand’s oldest surviving Ferrari, a 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter, cherished and driven by Amanda and Philip.
## New Zealand’s Oldest Surviving Ferrari: A Timeless Masterpiece
The 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Coupé, New Zealand’s oldest surviving Ferrari, is a testament to automotive history. This unique right-hand drive vehicle not only represents Ferrari’s early road cars but also defines passion and preservation for Amanda and Philip, its current owners.
### A Journey Through Time
In an age where technology was nascent, the 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter stood out with its 2.0-liter V12 engine. Generating 90 horsepower—an impressive figure compared to the 35 horsepower of contemporary Porsches—this vehicle was built for performance. Its gear ratio allowed it to reach speeds of up to 100 mph, making it a remarkable machine of its time.
### A Classic Rediscovered
Amanda and Philip discovered the car through a Hemmings article, nestled among stories under Alaskan gas lamps—a discovery story almost as intriguing as the car itself. Now fully restored, this Ferrari is not just an artifact hidden in a garage. Instead, Amanda and Philip actively drive it, ensuring it’s seen and heard across New Zealand. Their adventures with the car are even featured on Ferrari’s YouTube channel, providing a visual journey for enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
### Crafted by Legendary Hands
While most of the 37 Ferrari 166 Inters produced were designed by Carrozzeria Touring, this particular model features the craftsmanship of Stabilimenti Farina. Known for their exquisite styling, Battista Farina, Pietro Frua, Felice Mario Boano, Giovanni Michelotti, and Alfredo Vignale were among the artisans who sculpted this beauty. The car’s curves and lines tell a story of elegance and ingenuity, forged by some of the greatest names in automotive design.
### A Personal Touch
The car, originally painted a dark hue, now gleams in a pale silver-blue reminiscent of Pininfarina’s favored tones. While silver cars are not universally adored, Amanda and Philip’s choice to honor Pininfarina’s legacy through this color shows their dedication to both the car’s history and their personal preferences.
### Living Artifacts
Amanda’s philosophy on classic cars is clear: “They should be appreciated as historical artifacts, but at the same time, they need to be used. To me, that’s part of what cars do. I like to hear them. I like to listen to them.” This belief is a reminder that automobiles, especially ones with such rich history, are meant to be driven and enjoyed, not merely displayed.
### Conclusion
The 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter is more than just a car; it’s a journey through time, craftsmanship, and personal passion. Thanks to Amanda and Philip, this marvel of automotive history continues to roar on the roads, much to the delight of enthusiasts everywhere. Their dedication to preserving and driving this classic Ferrari ensures that its legacy remains vibrant and alive.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
