The Ferrari 166 F2 was an open single-seater for Formula 2, designed and built by Ferrari in 1948. It was derived from the 125 F1, but featured a lower, improved chassis with a longer wheelbase, making it more stable in corners. Its 2-liter V12 reached 150 PS with three Weber carburetors. The first race was the Grand Prix of Florence on September 26, 1948, won by Raymond Sommer. In the 166 F2, Argentine driver Juan Manuel Fangio, who would later become a five-time Formula 1 world champion, made his name in Europe.
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Learn moreTechnical details · The 166 family · The 166 FL version
Technical details
The 166 F2 adopted a lower, improved chassis with a longer wheelbase from the 125 F1, which made it more stable through turns. Up front, the wheels were independently suspended, while the rear featured a live axle that was replaced by a De Dion axle in 1950. The 2-liter V12 with a bore and stroke of 60 × 58.8 mm was the same unit already found in the road-going 166 variants with fenders, but was fitted with three Weber carburetors instead of one, thus delivering 150 hp.
The 166 family
The 166 F2 was the first in a long line of 166 models. It was followed by the 166 S, the 166 Inter, and the 166 MM. The car evolved continuously and grew increasingly competitive until it thoroughly dominated the racing of its day.
The 166 FL version
In 1949, Ferrari introduced the 166 FL version for Formula Libre, also known as the 166 C America. It was intended exclusively for racing in South America. Despite fierce competition from Alfa Romeo, Maserati, and Mercedes-Benz, it dominated the Argentine Temporadas for several years. González drove it to victory in the 1951 Buenos Aires Grand Prix, and in 1953 Villoresi and Ascari claimed three wins in the 166 FL.
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Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari 166 F2
When was the Ferrari 166 F2 raced?
The Ferrari 166 F2 was raced in 1948.
How much power does the Ferrari 166 F2 have?
Power of the Ferrari 166 F2: 150 hp.
What engine does the Ferrari 166 F2 have?
Engine of the Ferrari 166 F2: 1995 cm³ V12 Ferrari Colombo.
Who engineered the Ferrari 166 F2?
Engineering of the Ferrari 166 F2: Enzo Ferrari, Gioacchino Colombo, Valerio Colotti.
What are the predecessor and successor of the Ferrari 166 F2?
Predecessor: Ferrari 125 F1. Successor: Ferrari 212 F2.
