Ferrari 315S

315 S briefly

Ferrari 315 S — a two-seater sport racing car with a front-mounted V12 engine. In 1957, it replaced the 290 MM model and was designed for long-distance and road racing, not for daily driving.

Its main task was to challenge the then very powerful Maserati 450 S. This is one of those Ferraris that bridge the gap between the early V12 race cars and the more powerful 335 S.

History and development

The previous 290 MM won the Mille Miglia in 1956, and the 315 S was its further development with a larger engine. According to known data, only one completely new car was built, and two more were converted from the 290 S and 290 MM.

In 1958, with the introduction of the 3-litre engine limit in the World Sportscar Championship, the era of large engines of this type ended: they were replaced by the 250 Testa Rossa. As early as 1957, the 315 S largely gave way to the even more powerful 335 S.

Technology and achievements

The engine — an improved 60° angle Colombo V12 version with two valves per cylinder, six Weber carburetors, and four chain-driven distributor drives. Displacement — approximately 3.8 litres, power — approximately 360 HP, and the estimated top speed — around 290 km/h.

In 1957, the 315 S coupés took the first two spots at the Mille Miglia: Piero Taruffi won, marking his final career race, while Wolfgang von Trips came in second. Additionally, the 315 S finished sixth and seventh at Sebring, third at Nürburgring, and fifth at Le Mans. That year, Ferrari also won the World Sportscar Championship.

Where to see it and if it can be bought

There are very few surviving 315 S examples, and they belong to private collectors. Occasionally, such cars appear at classic racing events.

Due to their rarity and historical significance, these cars are sold very rarely, usually in private deals or specialized auctions. Essentially, they are collector's items, not cars you'd find on a typical classifieds site.

Versions and Evolution

Information on this model is limited: very few cars were produced, so we outline its main connections to other Ferrari models of the time.

315 S and similar era models

While the 290 MM had already won the Mille Miglia, the 315 S was a more powerful response to Maserati's challenge, and it was this car that repeated the race victory in 1957.

Frequently asked questions