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Ferrari 860 Monza: the 1956 four-cylinder racer
The Ferrari 860 Monza is a 1956 sports racing car with a 3.4-litre four-cylinder engine. It won the 12 Hours of Sebring, and here we delve into its history and technology.
The 860 Monza in brief
The Ferrari 860 Monza is a 1956 sports racing car from the 'Monza' family, which included models powered by four-cylinder 'Lampredi' engines. It was one of Ferrari's most successful cars of that season.
In this family, the 860 Monza stands out with a slightly longer wheelbase than most others, which typically have 2,250 mm.
History and development
On paper, it didn't differ much from the previous 857 S, but in 1956 it became significantly more competitive. The engine was overhauled: bore — 102 mm, stroke — 105 mm, displacement — around 3.4 litres, and power remained at around 280 hp.
The wheelbase was extended by 100 mm to 2,350 mm, and a coil-spring suspension appeared at the front, as in the 500 TR model. Although the car became about 100 kg heavier, its handling remained good.
Technology and achievements
With Mercedes-Benz withdrawing from international sports car racing, the 860 Monza, along with the 290 MM, showed strong results throughout the season, and the World Sportscar Championship title returned to Modena.
In the 1956 12 Hours of Sebring, Juan Manuel Fangio and Eugenio Castellotti took the win, with Luigi Musso and Harry Schell finishing second. During that year's Mille Miglia, two 860 Monzas finished second and third.
Where to see one and can you buy it?
Just 860 Monza cars remain, belonging to collectors and occasionally appearing at historic races and prestigious shows.
They are rarely sold, and prices are not publicly advertised. This isn't the kind of car you'll find on a typical classifieds site.
Versions and Evolution
The 860 Monza is one of the smaller family of Monza models.
860 Monza
1956The family leader with a 3.4-litre four-cylinder engine.
- Around 280 hp, 3.4-litre
- 2,350 mm wheelbase
- Winner of the 12 Hours of Sebring
750 Monza
1954The earlier family member from which later models evolved.
- Four-cylinder engine
- Shorter wheelbase
- A crucial predecessor to the 860 Monza
The 860 Monza and other Ferraris of the time
| Ferrari 860 Monza | Ferrari 500 TR | Ferrari 315 S | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Years | 1956 | 1955 model year | 1957 model year |
| Engine | 3.4-litre four-cylinder | 2.0-litre four-cylinder | 3.8-litre V12 |
| Power | Around 280 bhp | Around 180 bhp | Around 360 bhp |
The 860 Monza was the largest four-cylinder family engine and one of the last of its type used by Ferrari in racing, while the V12 315 S pointed in a different direction.
Pros
- The Sebring 12-hour victory in 1956
- Strong results in the 1956 season
- One of the most successful Ferrari models of that season
- Updated suspension with coil springs
Cons
- Rare and expensive
- Built for racing
- It lacks the V12 engine that most prestige Ferrari models of the era had
Frequently asked questions
Where did the 860 Monza achieve its greatest victory?
In the 1956 12 Hours of Sebring, it led with the Fangio and Castellotti crew.
Is this a V12 car?
No, the 860 Monza has a 3.4-litre four-cylinder 'Lampredi' engine.
Can you buy a 860 Monza?
Realistically, only through specialist auctions or private collectors; very few remain.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
