In early 1952 Ferrari further developed its successful short-block Colombo-designed V-12 engine, increasing each cylinder to 225 cc for a total displacement of just over 2.7 liters.

The resulting 225 Sport model was built on an evolution of the preceding 212 Export’s chassis utilizing the same 2,250 mm wheelbase.

Approximately 21 examples were produced in both open and closed configurations.

Like the Export, the 225 S was envisioned as a more fiercely performing model with competition capabilities, and cars were thus assigned even-numbered chassis numbers and fitted with right-hand drive and triple Weber carburetors.

Nearly every example was bodied by Vignale, the coachbuilder that soon became Maranello’s principal choice for the Lampredi-engined competition cars.

Campaigned extensively in Europe during 1952, and later in SCCA events, the 225 S was piloted by some of the era’s greatest drivers, including Piero Taruffi, Giovanni Bracco, Eugenio Castellotti, Jim Kimberly, and Roy Sa...