Salon Privé 2025 Day 1 highlights: Class of 1950s racing Ferraris at the concours
Guests at Salon Privé 2025 were treated to a spectacular showcase of 1950s racing Ferraris at Blenheim Palace, where a dedicated Concours Class united five of the rarest racing examples, each steeped in motorsport history, to mark the event’s 20th anniversary.
Unveiled on the South Lawn before an international panel of judges, the display highlighted Ferrari’s dominance in the post-war era, marked by triumphs at the Mille Miglia and its first victory at Le Mans. With legends such as Alberto Ascari and Carroll Shelby once behind the wheel, these cars offered a thrilling glimpse into Ferrari’s rise to global racing fame.
Reflecting on the line-up, Andrew Bagley, Chairman and Co-Founder of Salon Privé, said: “We were excited to add this unique Class of racing Ferraris to our 2025 Concours.
“It was an honour and privilege to welcome all five Ferraris and their owners to our 20th Anniversary event. The judges and I relished getting up close with each of these historic and stunning specimens, and it was every bit as close a competition as we anticipated.”
1951 Ferrari 212 Export Berlinetta by Touring
Among the earliest Ferraris built for competition, the 212 Export was powered by a 2.6-litre Colombo V12 producing 175bhp and capable of 136mph. Sold new to Augusto Caraceni, the Italian tailor and gentleman racer, it competed successfully in the Stella Alpina Hillclimb.
After decades in storage, it underwent a meticulous restoration in California before debuting at Pebble Beach in 2014. Today, under Martin Halusa’s ownership, the car continues to compete in historic events such as Goodwood and Monaco, staying true to its racing roots while being maintained in impeccable condition.
1952 Ferrari 225 S Vignale Berlinetta
Chassis 0178ED made its debut at the 1952 Mille Miglia before securing outright victory at the Coppa della Toscana with Bruno Sterzi. Further wins at the Bolzano-Mendola Hillclimb and Coppa InterEuropa at Monza cemented its place in Ferrari’s early competition success.
Restored by Ferrari Classiche after decades off the road, including a period of disassembly following a fire, the car now appears as it did in 1952, with Vignale’s distinctive two-tone livery. Shown at Pebble Beach in 2016, the 225 S is a rare survivor of Ferrari’s formative racing era.
1952 Ferrari 340 Mexico Berlinetta by Vignale
Built specifically for the gruelling Carrera Panamericana, this 340 Mexico was entrusted to double Formula One World Champion Alberto Ascari. One of only three examples constructed, it later raced in North America under Carroll Shelby in SCCA competition.
Retaining its original chassis, engine, and gearbox, it has been restored to concours condition by Motion Products Inc. Its Giovanni Michelotti-designed Vignale bodywork combines striking elegance with purposeful aggression, embodying Ferrari’s early ambition to conquer international racing on the world’s toughest stages.
1954 Ferrari 250 Monza Scaglietti Spyder (0442M)
The 250 Monza was born by pairing Ferrari’s 750 Monza chassis with Colombo’s 3.0-litre V12, creating a balanced, high-performing sports racer. Chassis 0442M competed in the 1954 Supercortemaggiore Grand Prix at Monza, finishing third.
It remains the only surviving 250 Monza with its original Scaglietti Spyder bodywork, giving it exceptional historic value. After a colourful international racing career, the car was fully restored by Ferrari Classiche between 2020 and 2024, returning it to its original 1954 specification and reaffirming its place as an important milestone in Ferrari’s 250 lineage.
1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Spyder
Arguably the most iconic Ferrari of the decade, the 250 Testa Rossa epitomises endurance racing success. This example was acquired by Lord Bamford in 1971 and has remained in his distinguished collection for over 50 years.
Originally campaigned in the United States, it was fitted with a 250 GT engine rebuilt to TR specification before receiving a full restoration in 2001. Since then, it has graced Pebble Beach, Goodwood Revival, and the Festival of Speed, captivating audiences with its unmistakable lines and enduring racing pedigree.
It’s fair to say that together, these five Ferraris offered an extraordinary glimpse into the golden era of Italian racing and design, perfectly embodying the spirit of Salon Privé’s 20th anniversary celebrations.
To discover more standout moments and automotive icons from this year’s event, explore our Salon Privé 2025 collection page for more highlights.
