The Legend of Ferrari and Pininfarina’s Partnership: When Enzo Met “Pinin”
How a secret dinner, a bold promise, and a young Sergio Pininfarina led to six decades of Ferrari design greatness. This is the origin story every gearhead needs.
The Ferrari 330 GTC Speciale Pininfarina chassis 9653.
The Ferrari 330 GTC Speciale is an exceptionally rare and highly prized example of Ferrari’s craftsmanship, designed by Pininfarina. This particular model, one of only five ever built, represents the pinnacle of Italian automotive design and engineering from the 1960s. It was originally unveiled as a show car at the 1967 Geneva Salon, where its elegant lines and advanced features immediately captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Finished in the stunning Azzurro Aurora color, this 330 GTC Speciale showcases the design excellence of Pininfarina. The body is a refined blend of sporty sophistication and GT elegance, a hallmark of Ferrari’s GT models of the era. The car’s unique combination of a luxurious exterior and a powerful, performance-oriented engine made it a standout even among Ferrari’s prestigious lineup. Originally owned by Dr. Michael de Bakey, a renowned heart surgeon from Houston, Texas, this car’s history is just as intriguing as its design. After de Bakey’s ownership, it passed through several distinguished owners, including Dr. Ernest DeBakey, Carl De Bickero, and Norman Silver. Each owner carefully maintained the car, preserving its exceptional condition and rarity. The Ferrari 330 GTC Speciale remained in the hands of collectors who appreciated its beauty and historical significance, including a period of ownership by John W. Mecom Jr., a prominent Houston-based businessman. By 1992, the 330 GTC Speciale had become a regular at prestigious concours events, winning multiple awards, including the Luigi Chinetti Award and First in Class at the Ferrari Club of America Annual Meet. It was later showcased at the 2018 Pebble Beach Auction, where it sold for an impressive $3.41 million. More recently, in 2023, the 330 GTC Speciale continued to impress at elite events, including the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace, and the Cavallino Classic Middle East, where it won Best of Show at the Gran Turismo. Its continued presence at prestigious shows and awards highlights its enduring appeal. Today, the Ferrari 330 GTC Speciale chassis 9653 remains a symbol of Ferrari’s commitment to combining luxury with performance, and is a prized possession in the Heinecke Family Collection.
Chassis
How a secret dinner, a bold promise, and a young Sergio Pininfarina led to six decades of Ferrari design greatness. This is the origin story every gearhead needs.
Discover the fascinating journey of Pininfarina, a name synonymous with luxury automotive design and innovation. From its inception in 1930 to its status as a leader in the industry, this article explores the milestones, iconic vehicles, and visionary designers who shaped the brand’s legacy. Delve into the evolution of Pininfarina, highlighting notable achievements such as the Ferrari 550 Barchetta, the Cambiano concept, and the introduction of Automobili Pininfarina. Join us as we celebrate the artistry and engineering excellence that has defined Pininfarina through the decades.
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