1952 Ferrari 340's Auction Could Fetch as Much as $9 Million

A 1952 Ferrari 340 America Vignal Spider is heading to auction and, according to Forbes magazine, could fetch as much a $9 million.

The Spider chassis No. 0196A was one of five built by Carrozzeria Vignale and one of three upgraded to factory team specifications, according to Classic Cars.com.

The vehicle will be auctioned on Jan. 19 by Bonhams Scottsdale Auction at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The Ferrari's chassis was entered in the 1952 Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, Le Mans 24 Hour, Grand Prix of Bern and Pescara 12 Hours, according to Forbes. It was returned to Ferrari in late 1952 and then Vignale, fitted with coupe body and sold to its first private owner, Piero Scotti.

"Subsequently rebodied back into its original racing form, No. 0196A is an exceptional and important car representing Ferrari's early efforts on the road to world domination," said Bonhams. "Not only has this historic sports racer competed in some of the world's greatest motor races, but it has also participated in the Mille Miglia Storica, Monterey Historic Races and Monaco Historic Grand Prix."

"The gorgeous open-top Spider configuration and powerful Lampredi V12 4.1-liter engine ensure an exhilarating ride in what surely must be one of the most attractive if not practical early Ferrari factory team cars extant."

Sir Anthony Bamford restored the body to original form when he owned the body in the late 1990s, said Forbes.

"It's virtually guaranteed entry in any historic event in the world. It's a proven car in excellent condition, meant to be driven," said Forbes' Mark Ewing. "It's not a car for collecting dust."

Classic Cars.com said that with historic Ferrari competition cars being purchased at all-time highs at auction, the vehicle is expected to be one of the top-selling cars in the January auction.

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