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Ferrari America: 340, 342 and 375 America — 1950s V12 grand tourers
Ferrari America — Ferrari's early 1950s series aimed at high-speed touring and wealthy clients from the USA. Here, we briefly review the 340, 342 and 375 America, their tech specs and what collectors need to know.
America in brief
The name 'America' indicates that the car was built for wealthy clients, particularly from the USA. These were luxurious grand tourers with large-displacement V12 engines, with bodies designed and built by various Italian companies.
The series was produced in very limited numbers, making it an extremely rare collector's item today. Each one is almost unique.
Three models — what sets them apart
The 340 America (1950–1952) was the first model with the larger-displacement V12 Lampredi engine family, designed for both road and track use.
The 342 America (1952–1953) was a more touring-focused, comfortable variant with a gentler character. The 375 America (1953–1954) received an even larger engine and became the most powerful model in the range.
Engines and gearboxes
All models used the Lampredi-designed V12 engine: around 4.1 litres in the 340 and 342 models, and around 4.5 litres in the 375. Power varied depending on the model and version.
The gearbox is manual. These cars feature rear-wheel drive and classic construction, so driving them requires experience.
What to know before buying
Every America is a historic, documented automobile. Before purchasing, it's essential to check the provenance, chassis and engine numbers, and historical documents. A Ferrari Classiche certificate can be very helpful.
Many cars have different bodies — Pinin Farina, Vignale, Ghia or others. The body can be one of the key value factors, so it's important to check it.
Trading in such automobiles happens through specialist dealers and auctions, and restoration and repair require very specific knowledge.
Trims
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
340 America
1950–1952The first America, geared towards both luxury and sport.
- Around 4.1-litre V12
- Manual gearbox
- Bodies from different ateliers
342 America
1952–1953A more comfortable touring variant.
- Around 4.1-litre V12
- Manual gearbox
- Comfort and luxury
375 America
1953–1954The most powerful of the three.
- Around 4.5-litre V12
- More power
- Extremely rare
Model comparison
| 340 America | 342 America | 375 America | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For the track and the collection | Comfortable grand tourer | Most powerful America |
| Engine (approx.) | 4.1-litre V12 | 4.1-litre V12 | 4.5-litre V12 |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ | €€€ |
All three models are incredibly rare. The most important thing when buying is documented provenance, originality, and a thorough check by a trusted expert.
Pros
- Very rare and historic value
- Distinctive Italian bodies
- V12 engine with a distinctive character
- A clear legacy of Ferrari history
Cons
- An extremely expensive purchase and upkeep
- Very limited supply
- Authenticity checks are complicated
Frequently asked questions
Why is this model called the America?
The name indicates these cars were built for wealthy clients, particularly from the USA.
What engines did the America have?
The 340 and 342 had around a 4.1-litre V12, while the 375 had around a 4.5-litre V12.
Can such a car be used on the road?
Yes, but as a collector's item and with great care. They're not suited to modern driving.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
