by Carbon McCoy
Spring 2009

This Issue's Fun Fact!

Before we begin, I just want to mention that if you're having trouble viewing this text - if it's too small - you can simply make it larger by holding down the control (CTRL) button on your keyboard and scrolling up with your mouse WHEEL simultaneously. Additionally, you can also make the text smaller with that same process, only scrolling downward with your mouse wheel.

Last issue's Fun Fact and trivia question:

"This issue features a two-part trivia question, focused around distributors.

The first question: What was the purpose of Ferrari using two sets of points in each distributor for cars up through and including carbureted 308s?

...and how was it different in the US emissions cars (up through and including carbureted 308s) that also used two sets of points in each distributor?

The first person to answer both questions correctly will receive a Berlinetta Motorcars baseball cap (black or navy blue) and a special super secret Berlinetta Motorcars Christmas present."

Our Fun Fact winner is:

Bill Muno - CONGRATULATIONS, BILL...!!!

Our winner had this to say:

Doug,

1.  A two point distributor reduces "point float" at high RPMs. Since it has a 3 lobe cam, each set of points only has to open and close 3 times for each complete rotation of the distributor cam.

2.  The two point distributor on the Daytonas was used to retard the ignition timing at low RPMs to reduce exhaust emissions. The low RPM set of points would cut-out at higher RPMs. The other set of points would function as a normal six cylinder distributor with a 6 lobe cam.

Doug replied:

Hi Bill,

Thank you for participating. Your answer was partially correct:

The main reason for having one set of points for 3 cylinders is that there is more points closed time to build up energy in the coil longer. The breaking (opening) of the points and consequential collapse of the magnetic lines of force happens more quickly than the energizing and rise of the magnetic field.

For the U.S. Daytona, each set of points was able to handle six cylinders at 8000 R.P.M. because of the Dinoplex electronic ignition which provided a high energy spark in less time; the points only provided the signal for the electronic capacitive system to unleash all of its energy. The Euro Daytonas had no retarded set of points, since there were no emission requirements and therefore used the old 1 set of prints for 3 cylinders.

Our best wishes to you in this holiday season

Now for this issue's Fun Fact and Trivia Question...

The famed 250 GT SWB was designed by Pininfarina. There were 168 250 GT SWBs made, some alloy-bodied, some steel-bodied. Some were even re-bodied by one of my favorite coach builders, Piero Drogo (who, incidentally, was the original owner of 0714 TR, a very famous 1957 pontoon-fendered 250 Testa Rossa that's coming up for auction in Maranello, 17 May 2009).

But two of the 168 250 GT SWBs were designed by Carrozzeria Bertone: 1739 GT and 3269 GT. One of these cars is also coming up for sale at the RM Auction at the Ferrari factory in May (1739 GT). The other one - 3269 GT (the shark-nosed example seen below) - was designed by a now-famous automobile designer during his tenure at Bertone, before moving on to work for Ghia. Who is this famous designer...?

A Look Back, and A Look Ahead

Hello, everyone, and Happy Spring 2009! As we emerge from a frost bitten winter, many of us are preparing for the warm weather ahead. For most of us, warm weather immediately equates to Ferrari events. Some will be attending with their cars; others to see the cars brought. But for all, the year ahead promises to be interesting. Many are sullen about the current economic turmoil. But not everyone has been adversely affected by these uncertain times.

The present day fiscal conditions have afforded many people the opportunity to pick up Ferraris that were otherwise unattainable. A year ago, no one saw 360 Modenas as five figure cars - at least not for years to come. But in the last few months, I have personally witnessed the wide eyed joy of owners of German and Japanese sports cars swap their M3s, 911s and NSXs for contemporary V8s from Maranello.

But the entire range of Ferrari models isn't influenced by the craziness. The famed Ferrari Leggenda e Passione auction - an event that takes place in Maranello each year, in association with RM Auctions and Sotheby's - will present 0714 TR, a 1957 pontoon fendered 250 Testa Rossa, on 17 May 2009. This car is expected to fetch a record premium - even more than last year's black 250 GT SWB California (2377 GT). And not all contemporary Ferraris are available at a fraction of the price - GTOs, F50s and Enzos are holding well.

But super cars aside, Ferrari posted great numbers for fiscal year 2008. Volume was up 2% last year with a total of 6,587 Ferraris delivered worldwide (26% to the US). These numbers represent a steady increase in Ferrari sales since 2002. These numbers are due, in part, to the 430 Scuderia, 599, the 612 and the launch of Ferrari's One To One program. In addition, emerging markets like the Middle East and South Africa, showing a 12% increase in sales since last year, continue to grow and support Ferrari's production numbers.

The 2008 Formula One season also marked the eighth World Constructor's title in the last decade (16 total!). So it's only appropriate that Ferrari announced the F60 last month - Ferrari's 55th monoposto - aptly named because of Ferrari's 60 years of participation in the sport. Ferrari is the only manufacturer in the history of F1 to compete every single year. The F60, internally known as 660, features a 2.4-liter 90-degree V8 and redlines at 18,000 rpm. With the introduction of new rules, such as the kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) and slick tires, the 2009 season should prove to be interesting.

Speaking of which, the Formula One season kicks off on 29 March in Melbourne at the Australian Grand Prix. March seems to mark a lot of things for Ferrari as the new 16M Scuderia Spider is expected to hit US shores - with the California right behind it. We hope to bring you an in depth review of Ferrari's new V8 convertible 2+2 when it gets here - plus lots more. The events lined up in the coming fair weather months should prove to make 2009 a very interesting year (plus I got a new camera for Christmas and I'm dying to use it). So stay tuned...

348 & 355 Console Refinishing

We remove the door handles, the consoles and the gauges. We then disassemble the panels, remove the gauges and controls from the climate control panel and completely strip off all of the old, sticky rubberized coating. We prepare the surfaces and refinish the pieces in a beautiful satin black. We also clean the gauges and climate control buttons and ash tray while they are out of the console. $2,900 including removal and installation of pieces, or send them to us for $2,400.

Please contact a customer indulgence liaison with any questions regarding our inventory.

What is a "Berlinetta Car"?

A "Berlinetta car" is one that has been prepared for sale to the standards established by our shop; it is a reliable mark of quality. Purchasing a car from Berlinetta, you will experience an unparalleled level of quality and service.  Berlinetta's reputation is built on integrity. Purchase with confidence. Whether you drive your car away, or unload it from a transporter, you can expect that your Berlinetta car will be as represented and ready for the road.

Berlinetta's highly regarded reputation and approach toward customer service is a consummate one.  When Berlinetta offers a Ferrari for sale, you're not simply buying a car; you're acquiring the first class example that you've worked so hard to earn.  A select car that is offered for sale is thoroughly serviced and pampered so that you can execute a worry free acquisition.

Berlinetta's reputation is acknowledged and respected by the Ferrari community.  Clients benefit from our ability to source the best examples of the most desirable Ferraris both here and abroad.  Although many cars are advertised, some of the finest cars in private collections are marketed discreetly by private arrangement, so you need to inquire specifically about cars you might desire.  Although advertising generates the most traffic, some sellers have various reasons to offer a car by private treaty, and you may overlook an ideal car if you don't ask widely, or trust us to do it on your behalf.

Additionally, when it's time to sell a car from your own collection, Berlinetta can assure that you get the proper exposure and price in the current market through a widely advertised program or selective confidential presentation to qualified collectors.  If you'd like to receive e-mail updates on cars for sale through Berlinetta Motorcars, please click here.

You will find us to be generous in sharing our knowledge of Ferrari automobiles and the current market.  We are enthusiasts ourselves and are always available to talk cars.  So when you have thoughts of buying or selling, we offer an honest consultation about specific models and their suitability for your collection.  Let us help you navigate the sensitive intricacies involved in finally getting the car you want. Building relationships is our goal, and we hope you will want to build one with us.

FERRARIS WANTED !

We are actively seeking the following Ferraris:

• GTO (288): Excellent, undamaged example with 5,000-10,000 KM.
• 275 GTS: Excellent original or restored.
• 250 GTE: Preferably a project car.
• 365 GTB/4: Any condition considered.
• Daytona Spyder Conversion: Excellent condition.

If you have one and are interested in selling it, please contact us at your convenience.

631.423.1010
BerlinettaMotorcars@gmail.com
www.BerlinettaMotorcars.com

QUALITY FERRARI CONSIGNMENTS ALWAYS SOUGHT

Please call for consultation on selling a single car or a collection. Your car will receive wide exposure to highly qualified buyers worldwide; or a selective, confidential presentation to qualified buyers and collectors.

World Class Driving's 200 MPH Xtreme Event

While the organizers of events like the Cavallino Classic XVIII and the Palm Beach Super Car Weekend were preparing to jump off the new year with festive Ferrari fun, another event was already taking place: World Class Driving's 200 MPH Xtreme Event. Normally a global tour of contemporary exotics that can be sampled by members, WCD decided to host a different kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience.

World Class Driving, run by Jean-Paul Libert and Alan Rae, is a driver's club that you don't go to - it goes to you. Their Website, WorldClassDriving.com, has a list of tour schedule dates in over half of the country. Members sign up for just $1,695, and have all day access to a foot-fidgeting array of exotics. Their fleet includes: Ferrari 599, F430, 430 Scuderia, Audi R8, Lamborghini Murcielago LP640, Gallardo LP 560-4, Superleggera, Maserati Gran Turismo, Mercedes SLR McLaren, Porsche GT3 RS, an Alfa Romeo 8C - and they'll be introducing Ferrari's new California to the lineup later this year.

But the 200 MPH Xtreme Event was something different. It was a driving clinic that also posed as a unique experience not offered anywhere else, in any car, at any price. Even now, after post event details have been published, the exact location has remained undisclosed. At the risk of being called a conformist, I, too, will maintain that secret. But I can say that it all went down in Florida - in the middle of nowhere - at a private airfield whose two mile long runway served as the event's raison d'être.

Instructors for World Class Driving just wouldn't fit in with the company's objective if they too were not World Class. So, on hand to hone drivers' skills was a staff of accomplished professionals: Vanina Ickx, daughter of famous race car driver Jackie Ickx, Champ Car racer Jan Heylen, GP2 competitor Nelson Philippe, and World Champion multiple Le Mans winner, Didier Theys.

These instructors drove and rode with drivers, constantly offering invaluable input and providing techniques for improvement. Each driver had an opportunity to learn from each driver in each car. There were two courses set up near the runway. One short, six-turn course, and one long, six-turn course. Drivers were split up into two groups and everyone had a shot at both courses throughout the day. The event was catered for breakfast, lunch and dinner, so the drivers (15 total), staff and press all had a chance to maintain their energy - that is, of course, when they weren't out on the courses!

The day's finale brought meaning to the company's name: World Class Driving. Their motto is "Life is short. Just drive." And that's exactly what they did. Drivers lined up at one end of the airstrip as instructors took passengers for the ultimate thrill ride - the search for 200MPH! Jean-Paul kept a leader board upon which he noted each car's speed as it returned and the amazed passenger emerged, proudly proclaiming the triple digit number. Every car ran flawlessly, without any need for rest or wrench. And just when everyone thought it couldn't get any better, instructors took to the passenger seats as the passengers took to the controls, notching their own belts with high speed personal bests.

While World Class Driving has reserved many dates throughout the year (and throughout the country!) for its all day, multi-exotic driving experience, the Xtreme Event is only held in Florida, and only four or five days out of the year. For more information on any of their events, visit WorldClassDriving.com, e-mail them at info1@wcdriving.com, or call 877.597.6403.

The 2009 Geneva Motor Show

Once again, my valid - and soon to expire - passport remains unstamped. But alas, I can still live vicariously through those more capable to travel abroad. And while Switzerland isn't at the top of my list of places to visit in Europe, the annual Geneva Motor Show ranks pretty darn high.

Though I've never been, the pictures depict similarities to the New York International Auto Show - only more elite, with better lighting and way cooler cars. As much as I admire the hybrid efforts displayed by GM and the ubiquitous Japanese auto makers, I am far more partial to exotic sports cars like Horatio Pagani's new Zonda Cinque - and the complete array of Ferrari's latest lineup.

From 5-15 March 2009, those lucky enough to attend the 79th Geneva Motor Show bore witness to a broad range of colorful Ferraris that will hit US shores later this year. On the model-adorned stage sat an Azzurro blue California as well as a black one and a red one. Not too far away was a red 430 Scuderia, a silver Scuderia Spider 16M, a metallic gray 612 Scaglietti and a red F2008 Formula One car.

On the Pininfarina stand was a metallic gray California. Two modified Ferraris were featured on the Sbarro stand: a 360 Modena-based Alcador GTB and a Testarossa-based LO-GT.

But debuting at the show were two new Ferraris: the 599 XX and the 599 HGTE. The 599 XX, tailored in FXX-style couture, is a new branch of Corse Cliente's FXX Program, rumored to replace the FXX program. The 599's six-liter V12 remains unchanged - but it's hopped up on proverbial Ferrari sugar putting out 700 horsepower and redlining at nine grand. Price hasn't been officially released, but initial speculation says the car (and subsequent entry into the 599 XX Program) will be just over a million dollars for the first year.

Weight is reduced because of a number of factors including carbon fiber intake plenums and a new crankshaft. The introduction of a new gearbox shift strategy brings shift times down to 60ms. Carbon fiber is generously applied throughout the car, and a new carbon ceramic brake system shortens braking distances. The 'donuts' that seem to cover the brake discs are inspired from F1, and improve aerodynamics as well as brake cooling. Interestingly enough, the calipers are smaller. Yes, I said smaller. The reason for this is that they house carbon fiber - yes, carbon fiber - brake pads. But the new application of this space-age material promises equal efficiency to the current stopping setup.

An innovative electronic approach called 'High Performance Dynamic Concept' has been designed to maximize the 599 XX's performance by managing the car's myriad mechanical limits in conjunction with the potential of the electronic controls. All of those big words make it sound like the car will drive itself, but indeed the 599 XX is an advanced racer that's sure to delight drivers of any skill.

The road legal 599 that debuted in Geneva, the 599 HGTE (Handling Gran Turismo Evoluzione), is an even more amazing version of the current model, the 599 GTB Fiorano.

The HGTE package features a modified setup with stiffer springs and rear anti-roll bar in addition to new calibration settings for the magnetorheological shock absorbers when the Manettino is set to 'Confident'. New tires are also introduced, underscoring a stickier, grippier compound.

Electronically, the 599 advances to the next gene pool via a more prompt response to driver input. Throttle response and shift times are also quickened. An exhaust silencer provides a raucous score to your spirited jaunts, while also yielding a quieter symphony when your neighbors are sleeping and you need to make a midnight run to 7-11.

Carbon fiber-backed sport seats complement the leather, Alcantara, and contrasting-stitched interior. Twenty-inch, diamond-cut modular wheels show off a new design and their matte silver finish is less blingy than the ball-polished option currently offered. Chrome exhaust tips are a stylish contrast to the matte black rear diffuser. No price has been mentioned yet, but I don't foresee any of these collecting dust on any showroom floors.

Images courtesy Asphalte.ch

Your Favorite Ferrari

When I'm not working and sleeping, I'm wasting my time on the Internet. I waste most of it at a place called FerrariChat.com. Some of you are familiar with the place, some of you aren't. But for everyone there, it's a source of just as much great information as it is a source for great entertainment. Recently, a popular thread discussed everyone's top 10 favorite Ferraris. After giving it a lot of thought (all models, both road cars as well as race cars, were to be considered), I came up with the following list:

1) S/N 134282 - a black/black Enzo currently owned by a famous music producer in Virginia.

2) S/N 2819 GT - the Breadvan.

3) 1353 GT - a black/black 250 TdF currently in California.

4) 12851 - the Daytona Spyder prototype, and the only factory Daytona Spyder to have a Plexiglas nose.

5) 2377 GT - a black/black SWB Spyder California. This is the car that famous UK radio DJ Chris Evans purchased for $10,000,000 at last year's auction.

6) 4219 GT - this is a 1963 250 GTO whose blue paint is so dark that it actually looks black. It's the only GTO in this color.

7) 77762 - a yellow/black 88.5 Testarossa. I have a lot of very fond memories in and of that car.

8) 6313 - Carlos Monteverde's yellow 250 LM. And because everyone should have a 250 LM.

9) 10107 - Here's a stunner! A 1967 330 GTC Pininfarina Speciale, similar to the one-off made for Princess de Rethy. It's black (originally metallic blue!) with black leather, and sports a beautiful, custom body.

10) 0896 - A 312 P (I need something to drive to work when the Enzo's in the shop!).

But we'd like to know your list! Send us your list of your top 10 favorite Ferraris. We'll compile them and post the most picked choices - and we'll profile the single most popular model picked! Pictures aren't necessary, but they're always welcome. We look forward to your submissions.

A little Berlinetta Motorcars fact: Doug's favorite Ferrari is the 250 GT SWB Berlinetta - after which Berlinetta Motorcars is named. Janet, his wife, is especially fond of the 500 TRC and the 335S.

308 ...GTO?

Counting just the GTBs, Ferrari made - and I'm just guessing here - 4,771 Berlinettas of the all of the 308/328 variants. That's a huge number compared to the paltry figure of just 272 examples of the beefier GTO. So it's no wonder that, among other reasons, some folks like to make their 308s look like 288s.

If this has ever crossed your mind, then ponder no further - Berlinetta Motorcars has everything you need. Doug Pirrone's high quality fiberglass, kevlar, and carbon fiber GTO-style body parts are currently available for immediate manufacture. Berlinetta Motorcars actually earned manufacturer's points for the factory in IMSA.

For pricing, weight and additional images, click here, or simply call or e-mail us today with any questions that you may have.

Stay tuned for next issue where we'll get to read about The Great Ferrari Race - Doug's 1986 foray into the Mille Miglia.

 

In This Issue

Fun Fact

A Look Back, and A Look Ahead

348 & 355 Console Refinishing

World Class Driving's 200MPH Xtreme Event

The 2009 Geneva Motor Show

Your Favorite Ferrari

308 ...GTO?

 

 

 

1973 365 GTB/4-A

This spectacular Cavallino winning, European spec high performance Daytona is available now. Check out our featured inventory below for more information. For additional photos, click here.

 

 

631.423.1010
BerlinettaMotorcars@gmail.com

 

Who is Berlinetta Motorcars?

Sales, Service, Race Car Prep, Engine Overhauls

• Pebble Beach
• Concours d'Elegance Peoples' Choice Concorso Italiano
• Ferrari Club of America

 

Award Winning Restorations

Since 1979 Berlinetta Motorcars has been servicing, restoring, race-prepping, and customizing automobiles from excruciatingly period correct Ferraris to tricked out Ford Escort Group B Rally track monsters.

As versatile as they are prestigious, BMC can flawlessly execute your needs. From tune-ups to Pebble Beach quality nut-and-bolt restorations, Berlinetta's three decades of passionate dedication is to what Car and Driver magazine is referring when they say:

"Berlinetta Motorcars has earned a reputation for quality work."

As a Ferrari enthusiast, we would like you to add Berlinetta to your trusted resources for information, service, restoration, and assistance in buying or selling cars.

 

631.423.1010
BerlinettaMotorcars@gmail.com
www.BerlinettaMotorcars.com

 

FERRARIS WANTED!!!

We are actively seeking the following Ferraris:

GTO (288): Excellent, undamaged example with 5,000-10,000 KM.

275 GTS: Excellent original or restored.

250 GTE: Preferably a project car.

365 GTB/4. Any condition considered.

Daytona Spyder Conversion: Excellent condition.

If you have one and are interested in selling it, please contact us at your convenience.

631.423.1010
BerlinettaMotorcars@gmail.com
www.BerlinettaMotorcars.com

Please call for consultation on selling a single car or a collection. Your car will receive wide exposure to highly qualified buyers worldwide; or a selective, confidential presentation to qualified buyers and collectors.

 

Quick Links

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