Enzo Ferrari, the legendary founder of the iconic Italian sports car manufacturer, had a surprising fondness for French automobiles – specifically, Peugeots. Now, one of those cars, a 1956 Peugeot 403 featured in Michael Mann’s recent biopic Ferrari, is available for sale on Bring a Trailer. This isn’t just another movie prop; it’s a tangible piece of automotive history tied to a man who defined speed and luxury.
The Unexpected Affinity
Enzo Ferrari’s preference for Peugeots isn’t widely known, yet it was a lifelong habit. While he built a legacy around Ferraris, he personally owned at least three Peugeots, using them as daily drivers and even as support vehicles for his Scuderia racing team. The exact reason for this affection remains unclear – some speculate it began with a family connection in France, while others point to the shared design heritage between Peugeot and Ferrari through Pininfarina. Regardless, the fact stands: Enzo Ferrari was a Peugeot enthusiast.
The Car: A Subtle Classic
The 1956 Peugeot 403 up for auction embodies the understated elegance of French automotive design. Unlike the flamboyant Citroëns of the era, Peugeots were known for their clean lines, restrained styling, and functional build quality. This particular model features a 1.5-liter inline-four engine producing around 65 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. It’s a far cry from the roaring V12s of a Ferrari, but it’s a capable and charming vehicle in its own right.
Movie Provenance: A Unique Collectible
The car’s appearance in Ferrari adds another layer of appeal for collectors. The film, a deliberate departure from action-packed racing narratives, prioritized historical accuracy. The inclusion of this Peugeot is a testament to that commitment – Enzo Ferrari truly drove one. Interestingly, the car is also equipped with a rear-mounted hydraulic handbrake, likely installed to assist stunt drivers in recreating dramatic driving scenes for the film.
A Rare Opportunity
This Peugeot 403 represents a rare opportunity to own a vehicle with both automotive and cinematic significance. It’s a tangible link to Enzo Ferrari’s personal life, offering a glimpse into the surprising tastes of a man who otherwise embodied Italian automotive passion. The auction ends on February 18, offering collectors and enthusiasts a chance to acquire a truly unique piece of history.
Owning this car is not about the speed or prestige of a Ferrari, but about the quiet, personal connection between Enzo Ferrari and a simple French sedan – a reminder that even legends have their unexpected passions.
