Unlocking the Vault: The Secret World of Ferrari's Elite Classiche Department
Welcome to an exclusive look inside Ferrari's Classiche department, a sanctuary where the world’s most valuable and historic Ferraris are meticulously cared for, preserving the legacy of what makes these machines not just cars, but moving pieces of art.
The Birth of Classiche
The department was born from an idea by Jean Todt in 2004, realizing the importance of Ferrari's rich history intertwined within each vehicle. Officially established in 2006, the Classiche department undertakes the monumental task of maintaining and restoring Ferrari models that are at least 20 years old, ensuring that each car remains as authentic as possible.
The Genuine vs. Authentic Debate
Authenticity, as opposed to mere originality, is the department's mantra. An F40, for example, may have had its tires or filters replaced, but as long as these replacements are true to the original specifications, the car retains its authenticity, embodying the spirit in which it left the factory.
Stories on Wheels
Each Ferrari holds a story, sometimes visible in the smallest details, such as a crack in the paint. The department respects the narrative that each car carries, often leaving the decision to restore to the owner, who might be more aptly described as a temporary custodian of these magnificent jewels.
The Restoration Process
The journey of restoration reveals fascinating tales, such as a 1957 500 TRC Barchetta’s four-time class win at the Mille Miglia or a car specially modified to carry the unexpected cargo of Ingrid Bergman’s luggage across Europe. These restorations often involve returning modifications, like modern brakes, to their original factory specs, based on painstaking research and documentation.
The Heartbeat of Ferrari
Within the Classiche department, engines receive particular attention. The focus is on the powertrains that are considered the soul of these machines. Owners often want the replaced parts back, considering them integral to their car’s story.
The Archive: Ferrari’s Memory Lane
Perhaps the most awe-inspiring aspect of the Classiche department is its archive, a treasure trove of Ferrari’s history, containing everything from production details to original design drawings. This meticulous record-keeping, originally championed by Enzo Ferrari, allows the team to authentically restore vehicles to their exact original specifications.
Discoveries and Revelations
The article concludes with a fascinating revelation. Even today, Ferrari is still uncovering its own history, like the recent discovery of original drawings for the Colombo V12 engine in a dusty storeroom, a find that could have easily been lost forever. This incident encapsulates the ongoing journey of discovery and the deep reverence Ferrari holds for its heritage.