Photo: Patrick Ernzen for RM Sotheby's
Ferrari 400 Superamerica (1959–1964): Full Specs, Performance, Dimensions, and Features
Discover everything about the Ferrari 400 Superamerica. Introduced in 1959, this exclusive grand tourer featured bespoke Pininfarina “Aerodinamico” styling and was powered by a high-output Colombo V12, designed for Ferrari’s elite clientele.
Overview
Assembly: Italy
Body style: 2-door coupe and Pininfarina cabriolet
Class: Grand tourer (S)
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Manufacturer: Ferrari
Production: 1959–1964
Aerodynamics
Body materials: Lightweight steel or aluminium coachwork
Drag coefficient (Cd): ~0.29–0.31 estimated
Dimensions and Weight
Dry weight: 1,280 kg (2,822 lb)
Fuel tank capacity: 120 litres (31.7 US gal)
Wheelbase Series I: 2,420 mm (95.3 in)
Wheelbase Series II: 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Engine
Bore and stroke: 77 × 71 mm (3.03 × 2.80 in)
Compression ratio: 8.8:1
Configuration: 3.967 L Colombo V12, single overhead cam, two valves per cylinder
Fuel feed: Three Weber carburettors
Maximum power: 340 hp (250 kW; 345 PS) at 7,000 rpm
Power per litre: 86 hp/L
Torque: 326 Nm (240 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm
Valvetrain: SOHC per bank, two valves per cylinder
Transmission: 4-speed manual with overdrive
Performance
Top speed: 265 km/h (165 mph)
Wheels and Braking
Brakes: Front and rear ventilated discs by Dunlop
Front tires: 6.50 × 15 in
Rear tires: 6.50 × 15 in
Steering: Worm-and-sector
Suspension: Independent double wishbones (front), live axle with semi-elliptic springs (rear)
Wheels: 15-inch front and rear
Production and Series History
A total of 47 Ferrari 400 Superamericas were produced between 1959 and 1964. The model evolved into the Series II in 1962, with extended dimensions and updated styling.
Series I (1959–1962)
-
Wheelbase: 2,420 mm (95.3 in)
-
Production: 25 cars total (7 coupés and 18 cabriolets)
-
Featured short-wheelbase “Aerodinamico” bodywork
-
Open hood air scoop on coupé variants
-
Unique hand-built variations per order, often differing in trim and detailing
Series II (1962–1964)
-
Wheelbase: 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
-
Featured longer chassis for increased comfort
-
Hood scoop design changed to enclosed form
-
Minor design refinements for improved touring refinement
Related
-
Ferrari 400 Superamerica Pinin Farina Coupé Speciale: Exclusive, one-off styling exercise based on the 400 SA
-
Ferrari 400 Superamerica Superfast II–IV: Prototype design evolution of Ferrari’s grand touring lineage
