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Ferrari Sigma: 1969 Formula 1 Safety Concept
The Ferrari Sigma, also known as the 'Pininfarina Sigma Grand Prix', is a 1969 Formula 1-style concept car. It was created not for racing, but to demonstrate how driver safety could be enhanced.
Sigma in brief
The Ferrari Sigma is a 1969 Formula 1-style concept car built by 'Pininfarina'. It was never intended to compete in Formula 1 races.
Its purpose was to showcase new safety solutions and the idea of a 'future' racing car.
History and Creation
The Sigma was unveiled on March 13, 1969, in Geneva. The main idea stemmed from the high number of Formula 1 driver fatalities and the low safety standards of the time.
The car was jointly developed by 'Pininfarina' and the magazine 'Revue Automobile' with the support of Enzo Ferrari. The name 'Sigma' was chosen because a few years earlier, 'Pininfarina' had already created an experimental safety car, the PF Sigma (1963). The designer was Paolo Martin.
Technology and Achievements
The car was based on the Ferrari 312, weighed around 590 kg, and featured a 3.0-litre V12 engine producing 436 hp.
The Sigma tested numerous innovations: a driver survival cell, multi-layer fuel tanks, a fire suppression system, plastic fuel tanks, a safety belt system, and side modules extending beyond the rear wheels to protect the wheels from impact.
Where to see it and can you buy it
The original car belongs to 'Pininfarina', and the example seen in the photo is exhibited at the Ferrari Museum.
It's not for sale: this is a museum piece, not a road or race car.
Versions and Evolution
Sigma was a one-off concept car, so there are no versions.
Sigma Grand Prix
1969The sole 1969 concept version.
- 3.0-litre V12, around 436 hp
- Approximately 590 kg kerb weight
- New safety systems
Sigma and its underpinnings
| Ferrari Sigma | Ferrari 312 (pagrindas) | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Concept car | Formula 1 car |
| Engine | 3.0-litre V12 | 3.0-litre V12 |
| Primary objective | Demonstration of safety solutions | Participation in races |
Sigma borrowed the technical foundation of the Ferrari 312, but the goal was different — to show what a safer race car could look like.
Pros
- An early example of a safety concept
- Author — Paolo Martin
- Many innovations, later becoming standard
- A unique, rarely seen exhibit
Cons
- Never raced
- One-off example
- Not for sale
Frequently asked questions
Did the Ferrari Sigma compete in races?
No, it was a show car, never intended for Formula 1 racing.
Why is it called Sigma?
The name is taken from the 1963 Pininfarina experimental safety car, the PF Sigma.
Where can you see it?
The original belongs to "Pininfarina", with this example on display at the Ferrari Museum.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
