Ferrari 330 P4
The Ferrari 330 P4: a refined evolution of the 330 P3/4 with a 4.0L V12.
The Ferrari 330 P4 was a rear mid-engined sports prototype racing car produced by Ferrari in the 1960s. It was an evolution of the 330 P3/4, using a 4.0L V12 engine (Type 257) that was essentially the same unit as in the P3/4, not derived from it.
Quick Facts
- Engine layout
- Mid-mounted 4.0 L (4,000 cc) V12 (Type 257)
- Notable drivers
- Pedro Rodríguez
- Jacky Ickx
- Chris Amon
Lore & Background
The 330 P4 was an improved version of the 330 P3/4.
Reader's Guide
The 330 P4 used a 4.0L Colombo-designed V12 based on engines used in the 400 Superamerica road cars, producing 370 bhp. It weighed 785 kg. The car was raced by Scuderia Ferrari, NART, and Maranello Concessionaires during the 1964 and 1965 seasons, achieving a 1-2-3 sweep at the 1964 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary goal behind creating the Ferrari 330 P4?
Introduced in 1967, this prototype was built with the specific intention of winning major titles like the World Sportscar Championship. Its design focused heavily on conquering the unique challenges presented by the Circuit de la Sarthe.
What powertrain drove the Ferrari 330 P4?
The car relied on a mid-mounted Type 257 V12 engine with a displacement of 4.0 liters for its propulsion. This layout was selected to optimize weight distribution and deliver strong performance during endurance events.
Which famous drivers piloted the Ferrari 330 P4?
Renowned talents including Pedro Rodríguez, Jacky Ickx, Chris Amon, and Lorenzo Bandini were chosen to drive this prototype. Their experience was vital for handling the vehicle's demanding characteristics on the track.
Why does the Ferrari 330 P4 hold historical significance?
This vehicle represents the height of Ferrari's engineering during their final years of competing for overall wins before leaving sports car racing entirely. It was the last significant prototype developed by the factory to challenge rivals at the highest level of endurance motorsport.
How was the body and frame of the Ferrari 330 P4 constructed?
The construction utilized a tubular spaceframe chassis wrapped in aluminum to keep weight down without sacrificing rigidity. Its streamlined profile was optimized to improve stability and top-end velocity during high-speed sections of the race track.
More in Legendary Cars & Engineering
Elsewhere in 24 Hours of Le Mans
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced