Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
The Ferrari 500 Mondial Spyder Scaglietti.
The Ferrari 500 Mondial Scaglietti Spyder occupies a defined position within the evolution of Ferrari’s early four-cylinder sports racing cars, produced under the supervision of Aurelio Lampredi and fielded actively between 1954 and 1956. Following initial series cars bodied by Pinin Farina and later by Carrozzeria Motto, a distinct group of 14 spyders were constructed by Carrozzeria Scaglietti. These vehicles are subdivided into two identifiable series based on construction period, stylistic treatment, and minor mechanical revisions. The model was powered by a 1,984 cc inline-four engine, Lampredi-designed, featuring twin overhead camshafts and dual Weber carburetors. Power output was approximately 170 horsepower at 7,000 rpm, delivered through a five-speed manual gearbox to the rear wheels. The chassis, designated Tipo 501, was a twin-tube structure with a wheelbase of 2,250 mm. Suspension consisted of double wishbones with transverse leaf spring at the front and a de Dion rear axle located by twin trailing arms and transverse leaf spring. Hydraulic drum brakes were employed at all four corners. The Scaglietti Spyder Series I included chassis 0406MD, 0446MD (later renumbered 0556MD), 0454MD, 0464MD, 0468MD, 0474MD, and 0506MD. These cars exhibit a distinctive early Scaglietti profile—marked by a rounded nose intake, integrated cycle fenders, and a cut-down cockpit surround with minimal windshield height. Notable among them, chassis 0468MD claimed overall victory in the 1955 Ethiopian Grand Prix. The majority of Series I cars were entered in continental events including the Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and regional hill climbs. The Scaglietti Spyder Series II comprised chassis 0512MD, 0528MD, 0536MD, 0556MD (previously 0446MD), 0560MD, 0564MD (previously 0424MD), and 0580MD. These later examples adopted subtle bodywork revisions, including higher cockpit sills, reshaped grille openings, and marginal changes to tail treatment. The last constructed, 0580MD, is identified as the final 500 Mondial chassis completed and possesses an extensive period competition record in North and Central America. It has since undergone restoration and has been exhibited at international concours events. The Ferrari 500 Mondial Scaglietti Spyder represents the intersection of engineering reduction and functional body design, rendered at a time when competition chassis remained adaptable, and bodywork followed performance logic rather than standardized aesthetics. The two Scaglietti series, modest in number yet significant in outcome, illustrate the marque’s early commitment to agile, lightweight sports prototypes suited to both privateer and semi-works campaigns.
Discover the legacy of Carrozzeria Scaglietti, the legendary Italian coachbuilder behind some of Ferrari’s most iconic designs. Explore its history, craftsmanship, and lasting impact on the world of automotive excellence.
