Classic car of the week: 1952 Ferrari 212 Inter Cabriolet

In 1950, Ferrari increased the displacement of its early Colombo-designed V-12 engine to over 2.5 litres. The result was cars that not only looked a million dollars but, thanks to 170bhp, went like stink too. And, such is the way that these cars have gained in value, they’re now worth a million dollars – and the rest.

The 212 model succeeded the 166 and 195 models, with triple Weber 36 DCF3 carburettors, a five-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with unequal-length A-arms and leaf springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs and parallel trailing arms, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

Ideal for the aficionado of early bespoke Ferrari road cars, this beautiful Vignale-bodied cabriolet would crown any collection, as it is a distinguished jewel from one of Maranello’s most fascinating build periods.