The Enduring Roar: Tracing the Legendary Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta, s/n 0078E, Through a Century of Excellence
For over a decade, my journey through the world of classic automobiles has brought me face-to-face with countless legends. Yet, few individual machines encapsulate the raw passion, inherent danger, and unyielding allure of early motorsport quite like the Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta, chassis number 0078E. In the burgeoning collector car market of 2025, where provenance and an unblemished racing history dictate stratospheric valuations, s/n 0078E stands as a testament to Maranello’s golden era, a magnificent blend of innovation, triumph, and poignant human drama. This isn’t just a car; it’s a living archive, a high-octane narrative etched into every curve of its Touring coachwork.
The Genesis of a ‘Little Boat’: Ferrari’s Post-War Dominance
To truly appreciate the legend of s/n 0078E, we must first cast our minds back to the immediate post-war period, a time of fervent innovation and fierce competition in European sports car racing. Following the resounding success of the 166 S, which secured the 1948 Mille Miglia, Enzo Ferrari, ever the pragmatist with a visionary’s eye, introduced its refined successor: the 166 MM. While benefiting from a shorter wheelbase and enhanced power, it was Carrozzeria Touring’s breathtaking coachwork that truly defined this new roadster. The Italian press, captivated by its sleek, streamlined form, immediately christened it “barchetta,” or “little boat”—a moniker that has, for nearly three-quarters of a century, been synonymous with Ferrari’s two-liter masterpieces.
The 166 MM Barchettas wasted no time etching their names into history. In 1949, they swept the most prestigious endurance races: the Mille Miglia, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and the 24 Hours of Spa. This early dominance solidified Ferrari’s reputation and laid the groundwork for future generations of grand prix and sports racing cars. The evolution continued with the larger-engined 195 in 1950, securing another Mille Miglia victory, before the ultimate iteration, the 212, arrived for the 1951 season. This was the era of the 212 Export, designed specifically for international competition, and it is within this elite lineage that our protagonist, s/n 0078E, emerged from the Maranello workshops, ready to carve its own indelible mark.
A Baptism by Fire: The Tragic Le Mans Debut
Every legendary car has a beginning, and for 0078E, it was one of the most harrowing imaginable. Its competition debut arrived on June 23-24, 1951, at the venerable 24 Hours of Le Mans. Then adorned in a stark white livery and bearing race number 30, the Barchetta was entrusted to its first owner, Jacques La Riviere, alongside co-driver Andre de Guetti. The atmosphere at Le Mans was always charged, a crucible of speed and endurance, but for La Riviere, the promise of glory quickly turned to unspeakable tragedy.
On only the fifth lap, as La Riviere navigated the critical Tertre Rouge turn—the gateway to the notoriously fast Mulsanne Straight—he lost control. The pristine Ferrari collided violently with a barbed wire fence. The outcome was devastatingly swift and brutal; La Riviere was instantly killed, decapitated by the impact. This horrific incident casts a long, somber shadow over 0078E’s early days, a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of motorsport in an era where safety was a distant, secondary consideration. It was not the auspicious start one would wish for a vehicle destined for greatness, but it undeniably contributes to its profound narrative and historical gravity, a stark contrast to the burgeoning classic car investment market of today where safety features are paramount, even in vintage applications.
Resurrection and Redemption: Triumph at the Tour de France Auto
Remarkably, despite its tragic Le Mans beginning, 0078E was not consigned to the scrap heap of history. Instead, it was meticulously rebuilt, embodying the resilience inherent in early Ferrari machines. Its next major outing came swiftly, at the inaugural post-war Tour de France Auto, a grueling 14-day race-cum-rally spanning from August 30 to September 12. Transformed in appearance, now painted a striking medium French blue, and fitted with a full windshield and folding top for the diverse conditions, the 212, wearing race number 227, was piloted by the formidable Pierre “Pagnibon” Boncompagni and Alfred Barraquet.
Pagnibon, a racer of immense talent and grit, faced a monumental challenge over thousands of kilometers of varied terrain. Unlike its brief, tragic run at Le Mans, this time the Barchetta flourished. Pagnibon and Barraquet not only completed the arduous event but crossed the finish line in first place overall, a stunning display of the car’s inherent speed and durability, and a magnificent redemption story. This victory cemented 0078E’s reputation not just as a beautiful design, but as a supremely capable racing machine. This European success would soon catch the eye of a pivotal figure in Ferrari’s American history.
The American Dream: Chinetti, Hill, and the Transatlantic Journey
The Barchetta’s European triumphs did not go unnoticed across the Atlantic. Luigi Chinetti, the visionary Ferrari importer whose influence on Maranello’s early American presence cannot be overstated, entered the picture. Recognizing the 212’s potential, Chinetti orchestrated its return to the factory. Here, the Barchetta underwent a crucial transformation: its single twin-choke Weber carburetor was swapped for a trio of twin-choke units, elevating its specification from touring trim to full-race. This upgrade boosted its output from a respectable 150 hp to a formidable 170 hp or more, priming it for the rigors of American sports car racing.
It was in this enhanced form that Chinetti arranged the sale of s/n 0078E to a young, exceptionally talented American racer: Phil Hill. This acquisition marked a pivotal moment, not only for the Barchetta but for Hill himself, as it was his very first Ferrari. Little did anyone know then that Hill would go on to become America’s first Formula 1 World Champion, and this Barchetta would be his stepping stone.
However, a gentleman’s agreement initially kept Hill from immediately taking the wheel of his new Ferrari. He had committed to racing Jaguar importer Charles Hornburg’s lightweight XK-120 LT-3. Hill, a man of unwavering integrity, famously stated, “You were either worth your personal word or were not.” True to his word, he honored his commitment, entrusting the Barchetta to his close friend Arnold Stubbs for its American racing debut. This illustrates the character of the men who shaped the nascent American racing scene, a far cry from the multi-million dollar contracts and team obligations of modern motorsport, yet retaining a core of honor that resonates with high-net-worth Ferrari collectors today.
Phil Hill’s American Campaign: Near Misses and Ultimate Victory
The Barchetta’s American racing career began on April 20, 1952, at the third annual Pebble Beach Road Races. Still in its medium French blue and wearing race number 32, Stubbs piloted 0078E in the Del Monte Trophy sprint. Despite a strong showing on the challenging 2.1-mile, six-turn circuit, the Barchetta placed second to Bill Pollack in Tom Carsten’s formidable Cadillac-Allard J2. Meanwhile, Hill, battling an overheating Jaguar LT-3, finished a distant fifth, watching his own Ferrari compete just a few pit boxes away.
Undeterred, Hill decided a proper Ferrari deserved a proper Ferrari red. After its repaint, he entered 0078E in the inaugural Golden Gate Park Races in San Francisco on May 30-31. The feature Guardsman’s Cup, an 86.8-mile sprint on an eight-turn, 3.1-mile circuit, promised fierce competition. The grid was a melting pot of American V8-powered Allards, XK-120 Jags, and various bespoke specials, all piloted by some of the era’s most skilled drivers. Once again, the primary challenger was Bill Pollack in Carsten’s dominant 6-liter Cadillac-Allard J2.
Starting a humble 16th due to its smaller 2.6-liter displacement, Hill’s Ferrari, now wearing #22, faced an uphill battle. The 275-hp Allard rocketed off the line, but Hill, driving with his characteristic blend of caution and aggression, began to pick off the larger, less agile cars one by one. By lap 3 of the 28-lap race, the nimble Barchetta had astonishingly climbed to second place, breathing down the neck of Pollack’s Allard. Hill relentlessly pressured Pollack through the turns, forcing the leader to conserve his overworked brakes. As the final lap commenced, the Ferrari was glued to the Allard’s tail. Victory seemed imminent.
Then, disaster struck. The Italian V12 suddenly began to run on just six cylinders. A dual ignition coil, having broken loose from the firewall, had become entangled in the steering. Hill, with incredible composure, limped the Barchetta to the checkered flag, his engine sputtering, securing a heartbreaking second place behind Pollack. It was a valiant effort but a bitter disappointment, settling for a Class D/4 victory rather than the outright win he deserved. This kind of mechanical drama, a constant companion in early racing, adds immeasurable character to these vehicles, making their ultimate triumphs all the more meaningful for collectors of vintage racing artifacts.
The true redemption for Phil Hill and s/n 0078E came swiftly thereafter. On July 20, the second running of the races at Torrey Pines, a breathtaking circuit perched between the Pacific Coast Highway and the ocean, offered another opportunity. Hosted by the formidable California Sports Car Club, the Torrey Pines event attracted serious drivers and machinery. Back behind the wheel of 0078E, now sporting race number 2, Hill started from the third row in the 30-lap San Diego Cup. He quickly asserted dominance, taking the lead and driving a flawless, consistent race. This time, there were no mechanical gremlins, no near-misses. Hill took the checkered flag, not just winning, but doing so by lapping the entire field. It was a spectacular, emphatic victory, a fitting culmination to his initial stint with the legendary Barchetta and a testament to both driver and machine.
Passing the Torch: From Hill to Howard Wheeler and Beyond
Phil Hill’s triumph at Torrey Pines solidified his reputation, and it wasn’t long before Luigi Chinetti, always scouting for talent and opportunity, offered him an even more potent Ferrari: a new 3-liter 250 MM Vignale Spyder (s/n 0260MM). Hill accepted, and the time came to part ways with 0078E. He listed the Barchetta for sale at $7,800 in the January 1953 issue of Road & Track, following a prominent two-page feature article on the car in the November 1952 issue.
In January 1953, the Barchetta found its next passionate owner in Howard Wheeler. Wheeler proved to be an equally enthusiastic competitor, racing 0078E 14 times throughout California and Arizona in 1953 and ’54, consistently achieving class wins and podium finishes. This continued active competition further enriched the car’s already impressive racing pedigree, adding layers to its unique narrative in the highly competitive classic car market of 2025, where exhaustive documentation of every race is paramount for historic motorsport integrity.
Over the next three decades, the Ferrari passed through a few more custodians, each playing a role in preserving its legacy. But it was in 1986 that 0078E entered perhaps its most revered period of ownership, acquired by the renowned collector Sherman Wolf.
The Custodian: Sherman Wolf and a Life Dedicated to the Driver’s Car
Sherman Wolf was no ordinary collector; he was a serious Ferrari enthusiast whose passion extended far beyond mere acquisition. His collection was already legendary, including the ex-Sterling Edwards 340 MM (winner of the 1954 Del Monte Trophy), a long-wheelbase alloy-bodied California Spyder, and a 500 TRC. For Wolf, cars like 0078E were not static museum pieces but dynamic testaments to automotive engineering, meant to be driven.
Wolf regularly entered 0078E in some of the most prestigious national and international rallies and tours. The Barchetta completed the challenging Colorado Grand six times in the 1990s, contested the Tour de France Auto three times, and participated in the Mille Miglia retrospective four times. These were not leisurely cruises but demanding events that required robust machinery and skilled driving. Wolf championed the “driver’s car” philosophy, frequently encouraging his co-drivers to take the wheel and patiently instructing them on mastering the intricacies of its five-speed non-synchromesh gearbox. This active participation in historic events underscores a crucial aspect of high-value classic cars in 2025: a history of being driven and maintained, rather than simply garaged.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Wolf’s ownership was his friendship with Phil Hill. The pair reunited with 0078E at various events, most notably the 1994 Monterey Historic Races, where Hill once again drove his old Ferrari to victory. Imagine the sight: the first American F1 World Champion, decades after his initial triumphs, back in the cockpit of the very car that helped launch his career, guiding it to another win. It’s a powerful image that resonates deeply within the Ferrari community and among collectors who prioritize authenticity and an unbroken chain of human connection to their vehicles.
Sherman Wolf passed away in 2012 at the age of 86, leaving an indelible mark on the world of collector Ferraris. His stewardship of 0078E, characterized by passionate driving and meticulous care, ensured that the Barchetta remained a living, breathing piece of history, far from being a “trailer queen.”
The Enduring Legacy in 2025: Investment, Authenticity, and the Future of Heritage
As we stand in 2025, the Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta, s/n 0078E, occupies an unparalleled position in the global classic car market. Its extraordinary provenance—from tragic Le Mans debut to Tour de France victory, through the hands of a future World Champion like Phil Hill, and into the active stewardship of a revered collector like Sherman Wolf—makes it an undisputed investment-grade classic. The meticulous documentation of its racing career, combined with its iconic Touring “barchetta” coachwork and the rarity of the 212 Export series, places it in the upper echelon of collectible automobiles.
The value proposition for a car like 0078E extends far beyond mere monetary figures. In an age increasingly dominated by electric vehicles and autonomous driving, these early mechanical masterpieces represent a tangible link to a heroic past. They are symbols of raw engineering, human endeavor, and the unfiltered thrill of speed. The market for such vehicles in 2025 is driven by discerning collectors who prioritize historical significance, original components, and a verified chain of ownership. The high CPC keywords surrounding “rare Ferrari for sale,” “vintage supercar market analysis,” and “automotive heritage investment” reflect this unwavering demand.
Furthermore, the continuing resurgence of historic motorsport events and prestigious Concours d’Elegance ensures that cars like 0078E remain relevant and celebrated. They are not just investments; they are cultural artifacts, capable of captivating new generations and preserving the stories of those who built, drove, and cherished them. The emphasis on certified originality, robust restoration documentation, and detailed historical research has never been stronger, making 0078E, with its well-documented life, a beacon for authenticity. This classic Ferrari is more than just a car; it’s a testament to Enzo Ferrari’s dream, a canvas for human triumphs and tragedies, and a vital piece of the global automotive heritage that continues to captivate and inspire.
My personal journey through this remarkable period, witnessing many of these events unfold and engaging with the very enthusiasts who shaped this world, only deepens my appreciation for cars like 0078E. They are tangible links to a past filled with unbridled passion, inherent risks, and unparalleled mechanical artistry.
Your Journey Begins Now
The story of Ferrari 212 Export Barchetta, s/n 0078E, is a powerful reminder of automotive history’s depth and enduring allure. If you are captivated by the fusion of breathtaking design, profound historical significance, and the thrill of a truly legendary machine, the world of investment-grade classic Ferraris awaits. This market is not just about ownership; it’s about becoming a custodian of history, a participant in an ongoing narrative of passion and performance.
Are you ready to explore the exquisite world of classic Ferrari ownership and potentially add a piece of unparalleled racing heritage to your collection? Connect with us to delve deeper into the market trends of 2025 and discover how these iconic vehicles can be more than just possessions—they can be profound legacies.
