Market Segment:
High-performance luxury sports racing car, competing with elite marques of the era.
Era Competitors:
Maserati A6GCS, Alfa Romeo 1900, Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (Gullwing/Roadster).
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight chassis, potent Lampredi V12 engine, advanced (for its time) suspension for competitive racing.
Racing Heritage:
Designed for endurance racing, success in events like the Mille Miglia and Carrera Panamericana.
Engine:
In-depth coverage of the Lampredi V12 engine, including tuning, timing, and component identification.
Transmission:
Details on the manual transaxle, clutch operation, and gear selection mechanisms.
Chassis And Suspension:
Information on the multi-tubular frame, front and rear suspension systems (independent front, de Dion rear), steering.
Brakes:
Hydraulically operated drum brakes (front and rear), master cylinder, brake line routing.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component locations (ignition, lighting, instrumentation), dynamo operation.
Fuel System:
Carburetor setup (e.g., Weber 36 DCL), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, coolant flow, thermostat operation.
Bodywork And Trim:
Panel alignment, door mechanisms, interior components, trim piece identification.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor synchronization.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common performance issues, engine starting problems, braking anomalies.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine component overhauls, transmission disassembly, brake caliper rebuilding.
Adjustments:
Carburetor jetting, ignition points gap, clutch adjustment, suspension geometry settings.
Specifications And Torques:
Torque values for critical fasteners, engine clearances, valve lash settings.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive workshop-level detail suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts for full restoration and maintenance.
Engine Type:
Ferrari Lampredi V12
Engine Displacement:
4962 cc (4.9 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80 mm x 82 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 340 hp @ 6300 rpm (for the 750 Monza variant)
Torque:
Approximately 310 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (estimated)
Carburetion:
3 x Weber 36 DCL carburetors (typical)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Dual ignition (two spark plugs per cylinder), distributor-based system.
Safety Ratings:
N/A (No standardized crash testing for racing cars of this era).
Braking System:
Hydraulic drum brakes front and rear.
Body Structure:
Steel multi-tubular frame chassis.
Occupant Restraint:
Basic lap belts (optional, not standard equipment on all models).
Infotainment System:
Minimalist design focused on driving. Instrumentation includes tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, water temperature, fuel gauge.
Driver Assistance Features:
None (focus on raw driving experience).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, more frequently for racing use. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Tune Up Interval:
As needed, often before major racing events. Ignition timing, carburetor settings, and valve lash checks are critical.
Engine Oil Type:
High-quality mineral oil, e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, depending on climate and usage. Consult manual for exact recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Gear oil with specific GL rating (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5), viscosity depends on ambient temperature. Manual specifies type and viscosity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Coolant Type:
Distilled water with an appropriate anti-corrosion additive or coolant.
Common Issues:
Carburetor tuning sensitivity, ignition system reliability, potential for overheating under heavy load, wear on older drum brake systems, transaxle synchromesh wear.
Restoration Considerations:
Availability of original spare parts, requires specialized knowledge for restoration and maintenance.
Foundation Year:
1939 (as Auto Avio Costruzioni, formally Ferrari S.p.A. in 1947)
Predecessor:
Ferrari 275 S, Ferrari 375 MM.
Successor:
Ferrari 750 Monza (often considered an evolution of the 500 Mondial with a larger engine).
Production Years:
1953-1954
Production Numbers:
Approx. 20 units of the 500 Mondial (split between 2.0L and 3.4L versions). The 750 Monza designation often refers to the later 3.4L evolution, though some sources may blend these.
Manufacturing Location:
Maranello, Italy
Racing Achievements:
Class wins and strong performances in major sports car races of the mid-1950s, including Le Mans, Mille Miglia, and Nürburgring 1000 km.
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible and sought-after classic Ferrari, appreciated for its racing pedigree and V12 engine.
