First of all, this was neither serial 0161 nor 016-1, but 016-I (for "Inter"). The 2nd but last of the 166 Inter series with Spyder Corsa (cycle fendered) bodywork, assembled May or June 1948. Original ownership is unclear, but I believe it was a works car, driven by Chinetti (with Louis Chiron) at the 24 h race at Spa in July, and later that year in September at the Montlhery 12 h race (with Lord Selsdon as co-driver, who probably paid for that ride). In October 1948 raced by Nando Righetti at the Coupe du Salon, also at Montlhery. The European period of 016I was closed with some record runs in the 2 litre class in November at Montlhery. Chinetti at the time was living at Paris, and his idea was to get the Ferrari agency for France, but for some reasons he decided to emigrate to the US, most probably with Enzo's promise to act as importer for Ferrari there. He took 016I with him, and sold her to Briggs Cunningham.
Edited by Michael Müller, 18 January 2015 - 18:19.