Eagle-eyed Instagram-ing car fans might have spotted a slightly unusual project showcased by Dubai workshop Top Gear Customs Auto recently: a replica of a Ferrari 500 F2 car, which raced in Formula One in the 1950s.
The model, which was also known as the Tipo 500, was used in an unusual spell of the World Drivers’ Championship between 1952 and 1953, when Grand Prix cars in motorsport’s premier series were run to Formula 2 specifications.
Originally designed by Aurelio Lampredi, the 500 was most-famously piloted by Italian driver Alberto Ascari. He notched seven consecutive race wins, a record only broken four years ago by Sebastian Vettel (then racing for Red Bull, before he moved to his current stable, Ferrari), on the way to winning back-to-back World Championships in the car in 1952 and 1953.
The 500’s in-line four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine isn’t part of the Dubai project, however, pictured here at Top Gear Customs Auto with a black Ferrari FF for scale. Instead, it’s a static replica.
Although the car, a joint venture between Top Gear Customs Auto and the Khrais Group, will find its ultimate home near Dubai’s top motor-racing circuit, the Autodrome, it won’t be roaring around the track. Instead, it will become a public installation at the adjacent Park Inn by Radisson hotel that is opening soon in Motor City.
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