Chassis No. 01050 Engine No. 173/19 Before the 246 and 308 Dino series helped Ferrari become a volume manufacturer, there was a compact, little-known four-cylinder GT that set the stage. Enzo wanted an entry level sports car to capture sales from Alfa, Abarth, and others. After quietly unveiling a concept Tipo 854 engine (850-cc, four cylinders), a handsome little prototype was spotted soon after, which journalists dubbed “Ferrarina” despite no discernable identification apart from the driver—Enzo himself. As the project slowly evolved, Giotto Bizzarrini was tapped to design a new chassis to accommodate an updated, 985-cc version of Gioacchino Columbo’s marvelous four-cylinder engine – essentially one-third of a V12. Much like a scaled down 250 GT, the new “Mille” had double wishbones up front, a live rear axle with trailing arms and Dunlop disc brakes. A sleek and purposeful fastback body was penned by a young Giorgetto Giugiaro, working for Bertone, and displayed at the 1961 Torino Auto Show. Despite Enzo’s staunch support of the project, Ferrari licensed production to an outside firm run by the De Nora family of Milan, under the newly formed Autocostruzioni Societa per Azioni banner. But production delays and spiraling costs meant that in the U.S., the ASA cost over $1,500 more than 427 cu-in Corvette! Sticker shock killed sales, and fewer than 100 cars in total rolled out of ASA’s factory. Despite its commercial failure, the ASA 1000 GT is now a cherished Italian “etceterini,” representing a fascinating footnote in Ferrari history. Chassis 01050 is a rare surviving example of the ASA 1000 GT Berlinetta. This car is known by the ASA Register, which suggests it was delivered new to Rome, and documents on file show it spent many years in Italy prior to joining the consignor’s private collection where it has resided since 2007. Finished in its original shade of silver and fitted with striking blue upholstery, it is an attractive and eminently usable car. Original equipment includes correct Borrani bi-metal knock-off wheels, twin Weber carbs, and a wood-rimmed steering wheel. The coachwork displays minor cosmetic imperfections, though it has been reported to run well on a recent test drive despite numerous years of dry-storage in the current owners collection. Small in stature yet big on charm, this jewel-like ASA 1000 GT is prime for continued enjoyment on the road, where the remarkable bloodline from Ferrari, Bizzarrini, Columbo, and Bertone can be savored with every passing kilometer. PREVIEW DETAILS: This lot will be available for viewing by appointment from Waregem, Belgium. SALE LOCATION: Belgium BUYER’S PREMIUM: 10% + VAT on the Hammer Price TITLE/REGISTRATION DOCUMENTS: Belgian Demande d'Immatriculation ADDITIONAL NOTES: N/A POST-AUCTION REMOVAL AND STORAGE: Following receipt of payment, collection can be arranged by appointment only from Waregem, Belgium with 24 hours' notice.
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