FERRARI 156 – year 1961

Ferrari Maranello Automobile Factory and Racing Company, Modena, Italy.

The first rear-engined Ferrari car was the model 156 with 1961 year. The proven Dino V-6 engine was used for the drive, whose cylinders were tilted at an angle of 12 °. Cylinder diameter engine 73 mm and piston stroke 58.8 mm had a capacity 1476 cm3 and reached at the compression ratio 9.8 : 1 moc 139,8 kW (190 KM) by 9500 RPM. The mixture was prepared by three Weber type carburetors. The ignition of two candles in each cylinder came from double Marella spark gaps. The five-speed gearbox was located behind the rear axle, followed by a dry multi-plate clutch. The radiator was located at the front, behind two characteristic intake holes regulating the air flow. The truss frame with a circular section supported the light, aluminum body. The independently suspended front wheels were mounted on transverse wishbones, between which there were screw springs with telescopic and shock absorbers. The rear wheels were also independently suspended. The upper arms were adjustable in length, which made it possible to change the inclination of the wheels. Very affectionate, Rack and pinion steering made the vehicle easier to drive. Disc brakes acted on all wheels. The rear brakes were located next to the differential. The spoked front wheels were smaller (5,50-15) from the rear (6,00-15). The weight of the car was 420 kg. The vehicle was reaching its top speed 240 km/h.

In the season 1962 engine power increased to 143,5 kW(195 KM) by 10 000 RPM, and the track was changed from 1200 do 1340 mm in front and up to 1320 mm on the rear. At the same time, the top speed increased to 255 km/h. The vehicle had a six-speed gearbox, which allowed better use of maximum power.

Model 156 contributed to the winning by the American Phil Hill of the title of world champion in 1961 year. Thus, Hill became the first American, who won the Formula World Championship 1. He achieved this success thanks to victories in the Belgian Grand Prix races in Spa (204,6 km/h) and the Italian Grand Prix in Monza (209,5 km/h). Ferrari 156 he also won the Dutch Grand Prix (of trips), in France (Baguettes) and in Great Britain (of trips). The company also won the manufacturers' world championship for the first time.