Named after the FIA ‘C’ racing regulations to which it was built to comply, this 500 TRC, or ‘Testa Rossa C’, is one of the most beautiful Ferraris ever built. This particular example is the last TRC produced, and the last ever four-cylinder car Ferrari made. It also comes complete with an impressive race history, including class wins at both the 1957 12 Hours of Sebring and 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The 1957 Ferrari 500 TRC by Scaglietti is one of the most celebrated sports cars from Ferrari’s rich history, known for its exceptional design, engineering, and racing pedigree. The “500” in the model name refers to the engine’s 2.0-liter displacement (500 cubic centimeters per cylinder in a 4-cylinder configuration), and “TRC” stands for “Testa Rossa Corsa.” The “Testa Rossa” (Red Head) name was derived from the red-painted cylinder heads of Ferrari’s racing engines.
The 500 TRC was the last four-cylinder sports car produced by Ferrari and was developed to comply with FIA regulations for the 2.0-liter sports car class. This model was an evolution of the earlier 500 TR, featuring refinements to the bodywork and chassis.
The car is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine designed by Aurelio Lampredi, capable of producing around 190 horsepower. Despite its relatively small size, the engine was known for its robust performance and reliability. The 500 TRC’s engine allowed it to achieve impressive speed and agility on the track, making it highly competitive in its class.
Carrozzeria Scaglietti, Ferrari’s favored coachbuilder, was responsible for the stunning design of the 500 TRC. Scaglietti was known for crafting lightweight, aerodynamic bodies that enhanced the car’s performance and aesthetic appeal. The design of the 500 TRC is a masterpiece of 1950s sports car styling, with its sleek, low-slung profile, curved fenders, and distinctive cutaway doors. The car’s body was made from lightweight aluminum, which contributed to its agility and speed.
The interior was sparse and functional, emphasizing the car’s racing purpose, but it still featured fine materials typical of Ferrari’s attention to detail.
The 500 TRC was built specifically for racing, and it had a successful career in various competitions, particularly in endurance racing events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Mille Miglia. The car’s excellent handling and power-to-weight ratio made it a formidable competitor in the 2.0-liter class, where it often faced off against cars from brands like Porsche and Maserati.
Only 19 examples of the Ferrari 500 TRC were built, making it an extremely rare and highly sought-after collector’s car.
The 500 TRC represents the end of an era for Ferrari’s four-cylinder sports cars, as the company moved toward larger, more powerful V12 engines in the following years.
The Ferrari 500 TRC by Scaglietti is celebrated not only for its performance but also for its timeless beauty. It is often displayed at prestigious classic car events and is a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts. Its combination of racing success, rarity, and stunning design make the 500 TRC one of the most iconic Ferraris of the 1950s.
The 1957 Ferrari 500 TRC by Scaglietti stands as a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to excellence in both engineering and design, and it remains a cherished piece of automotive history.