| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1953 |
| Production Years: | 1953 - 1955 discontinued in 1955 |
Precise measurements of the 1953 Ferrari 375 MM, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Weight Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Curb Weight: | 900 kg1984 lbs |
| Tire Specifications | |
| Rims Size: | 16 |
| Tire Size: | 185/80 R16 (W:185 | H:80 | D:16) |
The Ferrari 375 MM, produced between 1953 and 1955, is a distinguished classic roadster known for its timeless design and competitive performance in its era. As one of Ferrari's most iconic models from the early 1950s, the 375 MM combined elegance with racing pedigree, catering to enthusiast drivers who appreciated both style and substance. This grand touring roadster weighs approximately 900 kilograms (around 1984 pounds), which contributed to its agile handling and athletic on-road behavior. It rides on 16-inch rims fitted with tires sized 185/80 R16, a setup typical for sports cars of its time, offering a balance between grip and ride comfort. The relatively lightweight chassis and classic roadster proportions helped the Ferrari 375 MM deliver spirited driving dynamics, making it a highly prized collector’s vehicle today. Its production span, from 1953 to 1955, places it among the exclusive Ferrari models of the early post-war period that showcased advances in automotive engineering and design aesthetics. Enthusiasts and collectors often appreciate the 375 MM not only for its historical significance but also for its classic dimensions, which represent mid-century sports car architecture before the trend of larger and heavier models emerged in later decades. Whether for vintage car comparison, restoration insights, or automotive history, the Ferrari 375 MM stands out as a symbol of Ferrari’s rich motor racing heritage and timeless roadster appeal.
Discover the standout features that make the 1953 Ferrari 375 MM a leader in its class
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The Ferrari 375 MM from 1953 to 1955 is a classic roadster with exact external dimensions not widely published in detail, but typical proportions for this era Ferrari roadster suggest a length in the range of approximately 4,400 mm (173 inches) and a width around 1,700 mm (67 inches). The height is generally around 1,200 to 1,250 mm (47 to 49 inches). This low and sleek profile reflects its design as a high-performance sports car intended for both racing and road use. These dimensions contribute to its agile handling and distinctive presence on the road.
The Ferrari 375 MM weighs approximately 900 kg (1,984 lbs) curb weight, which is relatively light for a car of its era, especially considering its large engine size and robust chassis. This lightweight construction, combined with a powerful V12 engine, helped the 375 MM achieve impressive performance and handling characteristics. The low curb weight was a result of a design focus on racing dynamics, where shedding excess kilos improves acceleration, braking, and cornering capabilities.
The Ferrari 375 MM comes with 16-inch rims outfitted with 185/80 R16 tires. These tires were designed to provide a good balance between grip and ride comfort for a road racing car of the 1950s. The 16-inch wheel size was quite advanced for the time, offering improved handling dynamics and better contact with the road surface, which complemented the car’s racing pedigree. The tire width of 185 mm (7.3 inches) allowed for adequate traction during spirited driving, helping the driver to maintain control at high speeds.
Considering its approximate length of around 4.4 meters (173 inches), width near 1.7 meters (67 inches), and relatively low height, the Ferrari 375 MM would fit comfortably in a standard modern residential garage. Most standard garages are about 2.4 meters (8 feet) wide and 5 to 6 meters (16 to 20 feet) deep, dimensions that are more than sufficient to house the compact Ferrari 375 MM. Its relatively narrow width, compared with modern cars, actually makes it easier to park in tight spaces. However, care must be taken due to the car’s low ground clearance and delicate vintage design.
The Ferrari 375 MM is an evolution of the earlier Ferrari 340 MM model. While both cars share a similar roadster design and racing intent, the 375 MM features a marginally longer and heavier chassis to accommodate its larger 4.5-liter V12 engine, compared to the 340 MM's 4.1-liter unit. Although specific exact length and width differences are slight, the 375 MM's dimensions reflect subtle refinement for improved stability and comfort at high speeds. The 375 MM also benefits from technological advancements in chassis and suspension over the 340 MM, balancing size with better performance.
Compared to contemporaries such as the Jaguar XK120 and Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, the Ferrari 375 MM is slightly more compact in terms of width and height but similar or slightly longer in length. It prioritizes racing efficiency and aerodynamic shape, reflected in its low, sleek silhouette. The 375 MM’s curb weight of 900 kg (1,984 lbs) is notably lighter than many grand touring cars of the period, giving it an edge in agility and acceleration. The combination of relatively moderate dimensions and lightweight construction distinguishes the Ferrari 375 MM as a specialized performance-oriented roadster rather than a traditional luxury grand tourer.
The Ferrari 375 MM features classic 1950s Italian roadster styling characterized by a long hood, short rear deck, and a low-slung, aerodynamic body. Its proportions emphasize a forward-leaning stance with minimal overhangs and rounded fenders, which elongate the visual impression of the car without adding bulk. The narrow cabin emphasizes sportiness and driver engagement, making the overall size feel compact yet purposeful. This design approach gives the 375 MM a timeless elegance and sporting presence despite its moderate physical dimensions.
The Ferrari 375 MM is a two-seater roadster with a cabin designed primarily for driver and passenger comfort focused on sporting dynamics rather than spaciousness. While exact interior measurements are less frequently documented, typical sports cars of this breed provide relatively snug seating with limited shoulder and headroom due to the low roofline. The seating layout is simple and ergonomically arranged to optimize driving feel. Luggage space is minimal, reflecting the car’s racing heritage and focus on performance rather than touring comfort.
The Ferrari 375 MM was built on a robust but relatively short wheelbase that supports agility and lively handling characteristics, typical of 1950s racing-oriented cars. Although specific numeric values for wheelbase and track width are scarce, the wheelbase was proportioned to balance stability at high speed with responsive cornering. A moderate track width complements the low center of gravity and lightweight frame, allowing nimble maneuvers on winding roads and race circuits. This chassis setup optimizes the 375 MM’s size for precision driving, making it feel compact yet stable.
One distinctive size-related feature of the Ferrari 375 MM is its combination of a relatively lightweight 900 kg (1,984 lbs) curb weight with a substantial 4.5-liter V12 powertrain. While it shares common 16-inch wheel sizing, the 375 MM’s tire dimensions (185/80 R16) reflect a balance of period-correct road grip and racing performance. Its compact but long-wheelbase roadster design sets it apart from smaller, more urban-oriented Ferraris or larger, less nimble gran turismo models. This blend of slender dimensions, lightweight construction and robust engine defines the 375 MM’s unique place in Ferrari’s sports car hierarchy of the early 1950s.
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